HIMMAFUSHI BEACH EIA June 2016.Pdf

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi Island, Male’ Atoll

June 2016

Prepared for: The Secretariat of the Himmafushi Council, Male’ Atoll Prepared by: Mohamed Zuhair (EIA01/15) & Ibrahim Shakir EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 TABLE OF CONTENTS

...... 14 1. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ...... 16 2. INTRODUCTION ...... 18 2.1 OVERVIEW OF THE PROJECT ...... 18 2.2 LEGAL REQUIREMENT ...... 19 2.3 PROJECT JUSTIFICATION AND RATIONALE ...... 19 2.4 DONORS AND INSTITUTIONAL ARRANGEMENTS ...... 20 2.5 EIA BACKGROUND ...... 20 2.6 EIA APPROACH, SCOPE AND OBJECTIVE ...... 21 2.7 EIA METHODOLOGY ...... 22 2.8 REVIEW OF RELEVANT STUDIES ...... 22 2.9 EIA TEAM ...... 23 2.10 EIA TERMS OF REFERENCE (TOR) ...... 24 3. STUDY AREA ...... 25 4. PROJECT DESCRIPTION ...... 28 4.1 PROJECT LOCATION AND SETTING ...... 28 4.2 PROJECT PROPONENT ...... 28 4.3 PROJECT OUTLINE ...... 29 4.3.1 Scope of the Project ...... 29 4.3.2 Beach and Swimming Area Development Concept ...... 29 4.3.3 Work Methodology ...... 29 4.3.4 Environmental Monitoring During Project Implementation ...... 31 4.3.5 Key Measures for Environmental Protection During Project Implementation ...... 32 4.4 PROJECT MANAGEMENT ...... 32 4.4.1 Project Duration ...... 32 4.4.2 Communication ...... 32 4.4.3 Site Access ...... 32 4.4.4 Temporary Arrangements ...... 33 4.4.5 Work Safety ...... 33 4.4.6 Fuel Management ...... 33 4.4.7 Emergency Plan ...... 33 4.4.8 Key Project Inputs ...... 33 4.4.9 Key Project Outputs ...... 34 4.5 ACTIVITIES THAT ARE LIKELY TO CAUSE MAJOR ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS 34 4.6 AFFECTED BOUNDARIES ...... 35 5. LEGISLATIVE AND REGULATORY FRAMEWORK...... 36 5.1 RELEVANT LAWS AND REGULATIONS ...... 36 5.1.1 Environmental Protection and Preservation Act (Law No. 4/93) and First Amendment (Law No. 12/2014) ...... 36 5.1.2 EIA Regulation (2007), First Amendment (2012) and Second Amendment (2015) .... 37 5.1.3 Environmental Damage Liabilities Regulation (2011) ...... 37 5.1.4 Dredging and Reclamation Regulation (2013) ...... 38 5.1.5 Waste Management Regulation, 2013 ...... 38

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 5.2 RELEVANT POLICIES ...... 39 5.2.1 National Framework for Development, 2009-2013 ...... 39 5.2.2 Maldives National Strategy for Sustainable Development, 2009 ...... 40 5.2.3 National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan, 2016 – 2025 ...... 41 5.3 RELEVANT AUTHORITIES ...... 41 5.3.1 Ministry of Environment and Energy, MEE ...... 41 5.3.2 Environment Protection Agency, EPA ...... 42 5.3.3 Ministry of Environment and Energy, MEE ...... 42 5.3.4 Environmental Protection Agency, EPA ...... 42 5.3.5 Islands Councils and Atolls Councils ...... 42 5.4 PERMITS OBTAINED AND REQUIRED ...... 43 5.4.1 Concept Approval ...... 43 5.4.2 Dredging and Land Reclamation Permit ...... 43 5.4.3 EIA Approval ...... 43 6. EXISTING ENVIRONMENT ...... 44 6.1 DATA COLLECTION METHODS ...... 44 6.1.1 Geophysical Environment ...... 44 6.1.2 Climate Environment ...... 44 6.1.3 Coastal and Marine Environment...... 45 6.1.4 Socio-economic Environment ...... 45 6.1.5 Derivation of Environmental Indicators...... 45 6.1.6 Uncertainties on Data Collection Methods ...... 46 6.2 ASSESSMENTS UNDERTAKEN...... 46 6.3 GEOPHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT ...... 51 6.3.1 Geography and Environmental Setting ...... 51 6.3.2 Geology and Geomorphology ...... 51 6.3.3 Characteristics of Seabed Sediments ...... 52 6.4 CLIMATE ENVIRONMENT ...... 54 6.4.1 Climatic Setting...... 55 6.4.2 Temperature ...... 55 6.4.3 Rainfall ...... 56 6.4.4 Sunshine ...... 56 6.4.5 Winds ...... 57 6.5 COASTAL AND MARINE ENVIRONMENT...... 59 6.5.1 Tides ...... 59 6.5.2 Currents ...... 60 6.5.3 Swells and Waves ...... 60 6.5.7 Assessments on Coral Reefs ...... 65 6.5.8 Assessments on Reef Fish ...... 68 6.5.9 Assessments on Seawater ...... 69 6.5.10 Marine Protected Areas and Sensitive Sites ...... 69 6.6 HAZARDS VULNERABILITY ...... 70 6.6.1 Major Natural Hazards ...... 70 6.6.2 Distribution Pattern of Natural Hazards ...... 71 6.7 SOCIO-ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT ...... 73 6.7.1 Population ...... 73 6.7.2 Health and Education ...... 73

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 6.7.3 Water, Sanitation and Energy ...... 73 6.7.4 Electricity ...... 74 6.7.5 Waste Management ...... 74 6.7.6 Public Infrastructure ...... 74 6.7.7 Transportation ...... 74 6.7.8 Local Economy ...... 74 6.7.9 Urban Development ...... 75 7. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS ...... 77 7.1 METHODS ...... 77 7.1.1 Impact Prediction ...... 77 7.1.2 Impact Significance Analysis ...... 77 7.1.3 Limitations and Uncertainties ...... 79 7.1.4 Justification of the Method Used ...... 79 7.2 IMPACT PREDICTION ...... 80 7.3 DESCRIPTION OF IMPACTS ...... 81 7.3.1 Construction Phase Impacts ...... 81 7.3.2 Operation Phase Impacts ...... 85 7.3.3 Indirect and Cumulative Impacts ...... 85 7.3.4 Socio-economic Impacts ...... 86 7.4 IMPACT ANALYSIS AND EVALUATION ...... 86 8. MITIGATION MEASURES ...... 88 8.1 JUSTIFICATION FOR PREFERRED MITIGATIONS ...... 88 8.2 LIMITATION OF MITIGATIONS ...... 88 8.3 CONSTRUCTION PHASE ...... 89 8.3.1 Mitigation Measures for Seagrass Removal by Excavation-related Impacts ...... 89 8.3.2 Mitigation Measures for Sand Pumping-related Impacts ...... 90 8.3.3 Mitigation Measures for Sand Disposal-related Impacts ...... 90 8.3.4 Mitigation Measures for Machinery Operation in the Project Area ...... 91 8.3.5 Mitigation Measures for Construction-related Risks ...... 92 8.4 OPERATION PHASE ...... 92 8.4.1 Mitigation Measures for Maintenance Works ...... 92 8.4.2 Mitigation Measures for Solid Waste ...... 93 8.5 COMMITMENT ...... 93 8.5.1 Rationale ...... 93 9. ALTERNATIVES ...... 94 9.1 NO DEVELOPMENT OPTION ...... 94 9.2 ALTERNATIVE COASTAL PROTECTION MEASURE ...... 95 9.3 ALTERNATIVE BURROW SITE ...... 97 10. STAKEHOLDER CONSULTATION ...... 99 10.1 KEY STAKEHOLDERS ...... 99 10.2 MEANS OF STAKEHOLDER CONSULTATION ...... 99 10.3 KEY OUTCOMES ...... 100 10.3.1 Himmafushi Island Council ...... 100 10.3.2 Ministry of Environment and Energy ...... 101 10.3.3 Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure ...... 101 10.3.4 Health Protection Agency ...... 102 10.3.5 Himmafushi Community Member ...... 102

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 10.4 LIST OF PARTICIPANTS ...... 103 11. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING...... 105 11.1 BACKGROUND ...... 105 11.1.1 Aim ...... 105 11.1.2 Objective ...... 105 11.2 MONITORING REPORT ...... 106 11.2.1 Report Format ...... 106 11.2.2 Frequency ...... 106 11.3 MONITORING PLAN ...... 107 11.3.1 Quality Control Assurance ...... 107 11.3.2 Commitment ...... 108 12. CONCLUSIONS ...... 109 13. REFERENCES ...... 111 14. APPENDICES ...... 112

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 1: Location of Himmafushi (left) and Project Site (right) ...... 10 Figure 2: Project Concept (approved) ...... 11 Figure 3: The proposed project area and components ...... 18 Figure 4: Study area ...... 26 Figure 5: Key attributes surrounding the project area ...... 27 Figure 6: Temporary marking of two areas ...... 30 Figure 7: Key impact boundary from the proposed project ...... 35 Figure 8: Existing shoreline and lagoon bathymetry of the project sites ...... 47 Figure 9: Beach profiles taken from the project site ...... 48 Figure 10: Drogue study from the project site ...... 49 Figure 11: Reef survey and seawater assessment locations ...... 50 Figure 12: The extended part of the island on the eastern side ...... 52 Figure 13: The seabed condition of nearshore lagoon on the NE half ...... 53 Figure 14: The outer lagoon condition on the NE half ...... 53 Figure 15: The outer lagoon condition on the NW part ...... 54 Figure 16: The inner lagoon condition on the NW part ...... 54 Figure 17: Comparison of max (above) and min (below) temperature for April 2015 and 2016 (Source: www.meteorology.mv) ...... 55 Figure 18: Comparison of rain for April 2015 and 2016 (Source: www.meteorology.mv) ...... 56 Figure 19: Comparison of sunshine for April 2015 and 2016 (Source: www.meteorology.mv) ...... 57 Figure 20: Comparison of wind speed for April 2015 and 2016 (Source: www.meteorology.mv) ...... 58 Figure 21: Wind frequency chart of Gan for May 2016 (Source: www.meteorology.mv) ...... 58 Figure 22: Male’ tide predictions from 31 January – 6 February 2016 (www.tidetime.org/asia/maldives/male.htm) ...... 59 Figure 23: Waves found at the southern side of Thamburudhoo at Sultan ...... 60 Figure 24: Swells map for North Male Atoll (www.surf-forecast.com) ...... 61 Figure 25: A generalized hydrodynamics around the project area during NE and SW ...... 62 Figure 26: Comparison of beach during 2011 (left) and 2013 (right) ...... 63 Figure 27: The area before harbor development (2005) and after harbor development (2008) ...... 63 Figure 28: Small beach area on the north within the proposed project area ...... 64 Figure 29: The eastern half of the northern side ...... 65 Figure 30: General conditions at Reef 1 ...... 66 Figure 31: General conditions at Reef 2 ...... 67 Figure 32: Some individual corals affected by bleaching along the northern reef ...... 67 Figure 33: Coral cover at the survey sites at Himmafushi (LC=live coral, DC = dead coral, DCA = dead coral with algae, RCK = rock, RBL = rubble, SND = sand) ...... 67 Figure 34: Reef fish assessment results from Reef 1 and 2 at Himmafushi...... 68 Figure 35: Relationship between hazard intensity and frequency of ...... 71 Figure 36: Latitudinal variations of major natural hazards across the Maldives (UNDP, 2008)...... 72 Figure 37: Longitudinal variations of major natural hazards across the Maldives (UNDP, 2008) ...... 72 Figure 38: Some of the guest houses developed on the island: Just Surf Villa (top left), Kanbili Guesthouse (top right), Mango Surf House (bottom left) and the guest shop Mango Guest Shop(bottom right) ...... 75 Figure 39: Land Use Plan of the island ...... 76

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 Figure 40: Alternative coastal protection measure with development of groynes ...... 96 Figure 41: Proposed alternative burrow site ...... 98 Figure 42: Meeting with Himmafushi Island Council ...... 101

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 LIST OF TABLES

Table 1: Key Project inputs ...... 34 Table 2: Key Project Outputs ...... 34 Table 3: Current assessment ...... 60 Table 4: Seawater analysis results ...... 69 Table 5: Impact significance criteria ...... 78 Table 6: Significance rating matrix ...... 78 Table 7: Significance colour scale ...... 78 Table 8: Impact prediction table ...... 81 Table 9: Impact analysis table ...... 87 Table 10: Environmental monitoring plan ...... 107

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 ABBREVIATIONS

BATNEEC Best Available Technology Not Entailing Excessive Costs BPEO Best Practice Environmental Option EIA Environmental Impact Assessment EPA Environmental Protection Agency EPPA Environmental Protection and Preservation Act GPS Global Positioning System LIT Line Intercept Transect MEE Ministry of Environment and Energy MWSC Male’ Water and Sewerage Company MSL Mean Sea Level MPA Marine Protected Area MRC Marine Research Centre MOFA Ministry of Fisheries and Agriculture MOT Ministry of Tourism TOR Terms of Reference SS Sensitive Site

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The Project Site

Figure 1: Location of Himmafushi (left) and Project Site (right) EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 The Project Concept

Figure 2: Project Concept (approved)

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CONSULTANT DECLARATION

I, Mohamed Zuhair, Registered EIA Consultant at the Ministry of Environment and Energy of Maldives with the Registration Number EIA 01/15, hereby declare that the statements in this Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) Report for Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development at Himmafushi Island, Kaafu Atoll is true and correct to the best of my knowledge and abilities.

Name: Mohamed Zuhair (EIA01/15)

Signature:

Date: 21 June 2016

EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 1. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

The Secretariat of the Himmafushi Council (Himmafushi Island Council), Male’ Atoll proposes to develop a beach having 220m on the northern side of the island and a swimming are within the lagoon on the northern side. The swimming are will be developed after removing seagrass found within the lagoon from an area having 1,300sqm. It is expected that a total of 3,252cbm of material will be obtained from the removal of seagrass. The seagrass content will be removed before the material will be used on the proposed beach. The proposed beach will be developed having an average width of 10m and a height of 1.4m above MSL.

Two methods of material excavation will be used during the project implementation. Initially removal of seagrass will be undertaken by use of excavator and sand from the area will be obtained by using a sand pump.

This EIA is prepared as per the Terms of Reference (TOR) approved by Environment Protection Agency (EPA) on 20 March 2016.

Baseline environmental condition of the proposed project site as well as socio-economic environment was conducted for which the environmental impacts and mitigation measures as well as project alternatives are presented. It was found that there is a great need from the community for developing the beach and swimming area on the island, which is recognized as an important community need. The assessments carried out on the biophysical environment on the northern side of the island indicate that the coral reefs within the project boundary had very little live coral cover and limited reef fish abundance and diversity. The depth of the project area ranges from -0.4m MSL in the nearshore areas to -0.8m MSL at the proposed burrow site. The current flow was from east to west reaching to speeds of 0.14m/s and 0.18m/s. The area in close proximity to the project has known surf points. Most of the lagoon environment was covered with seagrass Thalassia hemprichii.

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 There are two Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) within close proximity of the project location. Thamburudhoo Thila MPA is located close to the project site at distance of 1.2km NE and Lankan Thila MPA is located 5km SW. There are two Sensitive Sites (SSs) within the vicinity of the project site, they are Huraagandu SS located at a distance of 4.3km north and Okebe Thila SS located at a distance of 7.4km SW.

Key environmental impacts from the proposed project will be from sedimentation to the reef areas on the northern and NW sides, changes in the hydrodynamics of the burrow area and nearshore lagoon on northern side of the island as well as potential changes to the northern shoreline of the island and these impacts can be reduced by implementing various environmental management and mitigation measures such as undertaking excavation, sand pumping and beach nourishment operations coinciding with low tide and on calm days to reduce spread of sedimentation as well as undertaking the operations in the quickest possible timeframe to reduce impact exposure period.

Although there are some environmental impacts from the proposed project, most of these impacts can be reduced and mitigated by use of appropriate methodology and timing. The effectiveness of these methodologies can be documented by implementing a comprehensive monitoring programme. Also, with positive socio-economic outlook of the project and the community needs for the project, it is concluded that the project should go ahead as planned.

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 2. INTRODUCTION

2.1 OVERVIEW OF THE PROJECT

The project for developing a public beach and a swimming area on the northern side of Himmafushi island has been proposed by Himmafushi Island Council. The rationale for the project is to create a clean public swimming area for the people of the island by removing part of the seagrass beds found on the northern side lagoon. Also, with the material obtained from seagrass removal, nourish parts of the northern shoreline of the island to create a public beach area.

The northern side of the island is one of the few available areas on the island for public use of the beach and for swimming, however, with excessive growth of seagrass in the lagoon and absence of an adequate beach makes the area quite unfavorable for use at its present state.

Figure 3: The proposed project area and components

The green area marked indicates the extent of seagrass beds and the blue area marked will be removed by excavation having an average depth of 2.5m at low tide with decreasing depth towards the shoreline on the northern side. The yellow area marked is the extent of beach nourishment area, which has an approximate length of 220m. The material obtained from the lagoon will be initially sieved and fine sand will be used for beach nourishment and coarse sand and rubble will be used in the backshore.

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 It is estimated that a total quantity of sand that will be obtained from lagoon will be 3,252m3. About 10% - 15% of this material is estimated to be seagrass, and the remaining quantity (2,927m3 - 2,765m3 - ) can be used for beach nourishment.

2.2 LEGAL REQUIREMENT

Under the Maldives Environmental Protection and Preservation Act (Law No. 4/93) and EIA Regulation 2012, the proposed beach and swimming area development project requires an EIA to be carried out. The EIA must address key environmental concerns including likely environmental impacts that will be generated from the proposed project, identify measures to mitigate predicted environmental impacts as well as assess existing environmental conditions of the project site.

As the project involves a small dredging component, a dredging approval will also be required under the Dredging and Land Reclamation Regulation. This permit will be obtained simultaneously with the approval of the EIA.

In this regard, it is a mandatory requirement for the proposed project to prepare and approve an EIA from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) before any activity of the project can be undertaken.

2.3 PROJECT JUSTIFICATION AND RATIONALE

Himmafushi is an inhabited island with a size of 33.4ha having a population of over 1,700 people. There are not many areas on the island to be used for recreational purpose by the community as well as visitors. The entire western side of the island has developments like the harbor and a boatyard. A land reclamation project has been proposed to be carried out on the southern and SE side of the island and with this development, the entire southern area of the island will not be usable for recreational purpose during the process of land reclamation. The eastern side does not have adequate beach areas and is far from the community. This leaves the northern shoreline of the island that has the potential to be used for recreational purpose. Although the area is close to the community, the northern side of the island also lacks a proper beach and the lagoon has extensive seagrass growth. Page 19

EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 Recognizing the need for an area to be used for recreational purpose mainly by the island community, the Himmafushi Island Council proposes to develop the area with a beach and a swimming area to publicly used by the island community as well as for visitors to the island, considering the island is heavily visited during holiday periods.

Because the northern side lagoon has extensive seagrass patches, an important part of the project is to remove some of these seagrass patches and develop a clean and safe swimming area on the island, which is located close to the island community.

2.4 DONORS AND INSTITUTIONAL ARRANGEMENTS

The proposed project will be partly funded by Himmafushi Island Council and partly by private parties. However, a contractor will be selected for implementation of the project in close collaboration with the island council.

As the proponent of the project, Himmafushi Island Council will be responsible for checking daily progress of the project. Also, as the lead agency, the island council will undertake necessary approvals from the government and in this regard the island council will prepare and submit the required EIA report for approval. The island council will also work closely with Male’ Atoll Council.

Once the project is complete, the Himmafushi Island Council will take the lead role in terms of managing the area, control use and recreational activities.

2.5 EIA BACKGROUND

This EIA is prepared as per the Terms of Reference (TOR) approved by the Environmental Protection Agency on 20 March 2016. It is a legal requirement under the new Regulation on EIA of 2012 to prepare EIA reports before certain projects including dredging and beach development projects are implemented. As per the above-mentioned regulation, environmental clearance will be obtained through approval of this EIA from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 The aim of this EIA is to ensure that potential impacts are identified and addressed in relation to the proposed beach and swimming area development works.

2.6 EIA APPROACH, SCOPE AND OBJECTIVE

This EIA Report has been prepared based on information collected from the northern side of Himmafushi and the surrounding environment by use of established methodologies, desk research for obtaining relevant secondary data, information obtained from the project proponent, use of guidelines collected from relevant laws and regulations as well as information obtained from EIA studies carried out in the country for similar projects and experience of the EIA team engaged in preparing the report.

The primary objective of the EIA study is to safeguard the environment during planning, design, construction and operation of the proposed project activities by mitigating environmental impacts envisaged.

Specific objectives of the EIA study are to:

 Determine the baseline environmental conditions of the project area.  Identify, predict and assess environmental impacts that might arise during the construction and operation phases of the proposed project.  Suggest environmental impact mitigation measures to suit local conditions in order to reduce negative impacts on the environment  Enable the project proponent to comply with environmental rules and regulations.

The scope of the EIA study includes;

 Assessment of the present status of physical and biological components of the environment surrounding the project area.  Identify environmental impacts due to the proposed project on environmental components (during construction and operation phases).  Assessment of environmental impacts.

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016  Propose environmental management and mitigation measures for the impacts identified.  Propose an environmental monitoring programme to be pursued by the project proponent

2.7 EIA METHODOLOGY

The methodology adopted for the environmental impact study consists of the following stages:

 Identification of significant environmental components and assessment of their baseline (pre-project or existing) status within the study area. This is carried out by site visits to study site-specific environmental conditions at the site.  Prediction of impacts on various identified environmental parameters due to the proposed project, which is done by use of a descriptive environmental impact matrix.  Review of relevant EIAs carried out in similar environmental settings.  Evaluation of significance of environmental impacts by use of significance analysis method  Expert judgment and professional opinion have also been used throughout the impact assessment and evaluation process. These methods are described in detail at the relevant section of this EIA Report.

2.8 REVIEW OF RELEVANT STUDIES

As part of relevant literature review and preparation of the report, the following EIA studies have been reviewed to understand the effects of such development projects on the environment in addition to personal experiences of the environmental consultant who have prepared this EIA Report. These are;

 Initial Environmental Examination for Beach Nourishment at Soneva Gili Resort and Spa, North Male Atoll prepared by Sandcays Pvt. Ltd. in 2010.

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016  Environmental Impact Assessment for Beach Nourishment and Maintenance Dredging of Access Channel and Harbour in Thulhaagiri Island Resort, North Male Atoll prepared by Dr. Shiham Adam and Dr. Mahmood Riyaz in 2014.  Environmental Impact Assessment for Beach Nourishment and Coastal Protection Works at Velaa Private Island, Noonu Atoll prepared by LaMer Group Pvt. Ltd. in 2015.  Environmental Impact Assessment for Proposed Coastal Protection Works in Th. Veymandoo Island, Th. Atoll prepared by Mohamed Zuhair and Ibrahim Shakir in 2015.

All these EIAs focus on projects mainly involving beach nourishment as an important part of the project, hence, have been reviewed in order to understand the types, degrees and magnitudes of environmental impacts from such activities in these islands, especially relating to shoreline and hydrodynamics impacts due to the project as well as impacts on marine environment from sedimentation. These reviews provided some depth on the type and extent of environmental impacts and how these impacts can be reduced.

2.9 EIA TEAM

Mr. Mohamed Zuhair, EIA Consultant (EIA01/15) is the team leader, who is a freelance Environment Consultant who has many years of experience in the field of environmental management, assessment and monitoring, implementation of environmental laws and regulations and has involved as lead consultant and a team member in preparing several EIAs in the Maldives including EIAs for tourist resort development, mariculture and agriculture development, harbor development, coastal protection, land reclamation, etc.

Mr. Ibrahim Shakir, Registered Land and Hydrographic Surveyor, who is an experienced Land Survey Consultant who has undertaken a number of land surveys for the purpose of land registration and development, undertaken many hydrographic surveys for development of important facilities such as jetties, harbours, water villas, as well as other water-associated facilities in many islands in the Maldives.

Curriculum Vitae of the Consultants have been annexed to this report.

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 2.10 EIA TERMS OF REFERENCE (TOR)

The Terms of Reference (TOR) outlining the scope of the EIA has been approved on 20 March 2016 by Environmental Protection Agency.

The approved Terms of Reference is attached in Appendix 1.

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 3. STUDY AREA

The following figure shows the study area in which the baseline environmental information was collected for the purpose of preparing this EIA report.

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100m

Figure 4: Study area EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016

Huraagandu (Sensitive Site)

Girifushi (Police)

Thanburudhoo Project Location (Planned Resort)

Thanburudhoo Thila (MPA) Himmafushi

Gili Lankan (Resort)

Okobe Thila (Sensitive Site) Lankan Thila Paradise Island (MPA) (Resort)

500m

Figure 5: Key attributes surrounding the project area

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4. PROJECT DESCRIPTION

4.1 PROJECT LOCATION AND SETTING

The proposed beach and swimming are development will be undertaken on parts of the northern shoreline of Himmafushi island.

Himmafushi island is an inhabited island having an area of 33.4ha found in a relatively large reef having an approximate length of 4.3km located on the eastern periphery of North Male’ Atoll (Figure 1). The average length of the island is 835m and average width of the island is 370m. However, an extended part having a length of 852m is found on the eastern side of the island. The island is located on the northern side of the reef.

Two other islands are found within the same reef. They are Paradise Island Resort located at 2.2km south and Gili Lankanfushi Resort located 1km south of Himmafushi island. On the north, two smaller islands in their own reefs are found in close proximity. They are Girifushi located at1km north and Thamburudhoo located at 1.5km SE. The closest inhabited island is Huraa located 4km north. The Atoll Capital, Thulusdhoo is also found on the north at 10km.

There are two Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) within close proximity of the project location. Thamburudhoo Thila MPA is located close to the project site at distance of 1.2km NE and Lankan Thila MPA is located 5km SW. There are two Sensitive Sites (SSs) within the vicinity of the project site, they are Huraagandu SS located at a distance of 4.3km north and Okebe Thila SS located at a distance of 7.4km SW (Figure 5).

4.2 PROJECT PROPONENT

The proponent of the project is the Secretariat of the Himmafushi Council, Male’ Atoll. The contact detail of the proponent is;

The Secretariat of the Himmafushi Council Himmafushi Island Male’ Atoll Tel and Fax: 6642024 Email: [email protected] EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 4.3 PROJECT OUTLINE

4.3.1 Scope of the Project

The scope of the proposed project involves;

a. Seagrass removal from the allocated swimming area (1,300m2) i. Use excavator to remove seagrass patch (at approx. -1m MSL) ii. Use dump truck to bring material ashore iii. Separate seagrass and sand and sieve sand for use at the beach iv. Use sand pump from the proposed swimming area (at approx. -1.5m MSL) v. Discharge sand on the required beach area on the north b. Beach development on the northern side i. Use sieved sand and pumped sand on the northern shoreline (220m) having average beach width of 10m at a height of 1.4m above MSL ii. Manual spreading of sand on beach

4.3.2 Beach and Swimming Area Development Concept

An initial beach and swimming area development concept has been approved by the Secretariat of Himmafushi Council.

Approved development concept is attached in Appendix 2.

4.3.3 Work Methodology

Following are the work methodology adapted for the proposed beach and swimming area works to be carried out as part of the proposed project.

Equipment

 Excavator (330)  Dump truck  Submersible sand pump  15kv generator  Sand barge

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016  Floating and shore pipeline (85m)  Floaters for discharge pipeline  Joints for pipeline

Site Survey

A detailed bathymetry of the lagoon including areas proposed for burrowing sand has been undertaken and presented in this EIA report. Also, a drogue study has been undertaken to understand current movement within the lagoon.

Temporary markings on burrow area for excavation and beach area requiring nourishment will be done by using pegs, which will be placed at high tide shoreline as indicated below.

Burrow site marking

Beach area marking

Figure 6: Temporary marking of two areas

Preparation and Mobilization

All required machinery including excavator, dump truck, sand pump, barge and accessories will be mobilized to the site upon approval of the EIA report from EPA.

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 Volume Estimation

It is estimated that a total quantity of sand that will be obtained from lagoon will be 3,252m3. About 10% - 15% of this material is estimated to be seagrass, and the remaining quantity (2,927m3 - 2,765m3 - ) can be used for beach developed. The length of the beach to be developed on the northern side of the island is 226m.

Seagrass Removal by Excavation and Material Transport

Initially, seagrass from the proposed burrow site will be removed by use of excavator. A temporary sand bed will be laid between the burrow site and the fill area for ease of transporting material, which will be removed upon completion of works. The material excavated will be transported to the beach area by dump truck.

Separation and Sieving

The excavated material consisting of seagrass and sand will be separated and sieved before it will be used on the beach.

Sand Pumping, Transportation and Spreading Works

Once seagrass removal works complete, sand pumping works will begin. Sand will be pumped from the area where seagrass was removed on the northern side lagoon of the island. The discharge location of the pipe will be manually moved in order to initially spread sand within the desired area. Also, at the same time, sand will be manually spread within the desired area on the northern side.

4.3.4 Environmental Monitoring During Project Implementation

A detailed environmental monitoring programme has been developed and outlined in the Environmental Monitoring section of the EIA report.

Environmental monitoring will be initiated as soon as the project starts implementation. In this regard, components assessed during baseline assessments, including coral reef health, currents within the lagoon, marine water quality and shoreline will be monitored.

Furthermore, movement of sedimentation within the lagoon and the reef areas will be monitored on a regular basis.

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 4.3.5 Key Measures for Environmental Protection During Project Implementation

An important measure with regards to reducing environmental impacts, particularly related to sedimentation during excavation and sand pumping works will be to undertake operations during low tide and on calm days so that transportation of sedimentation to great distance can be reduced tremendously. Also, undertaking the work during SW monsoon is believed to take sedimentation away from the reef into the sea.

4.4 PROJECT MANAGEMENT

The proposed project will be managed by the Secretariat of the Himmafushi Island Council in close collaboration with Male’ Atoll Council and EPA.

4.4.1 Project Duration

Following is a tentative work schedule of the proposed project.

Mobilization and site setup 3 weeks Excavation works 5 weeks Beach nourishment works 5 weeks Completion and demobilization 2 weeks TOTAL 15 weeks

The proposed project is expected to be completed within a period of 3 months.

4.4.2 Communication

During the implementation of the project, the Island Council will communicate both Atoll Council and EPA with regards to informing details of project implementation works. All communication will be undertaken in written form. A focal point for the project from the Island Council will be established at site.

4.4.3 Site Access

The proposed work area will be demarcated and temporarily closed for public during project implementation. Only authorized personnel will be allowed to enter.

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 4.4.4 Temporary Arrangements

A temporary arrangement in terms of labour camps will not be required at the site. The workers of the contractor will stay on rented houses on the island. However, a temporary work site at the project area will be allocated for parking heavy machinery.

4.4.5 Work Safety

The project personnel, who will be mainly contract labourers, will be informed of the work safety procedures during implementation of the project. Furthermore, during work, safety wear such as boots and gloves must be worn. For those who work offshore at the excavator and sand barge, life vests must be available. Work safety during excavation works will be ensured with an agreement with the contractor.

4.4.6 Fuel Management

Fuel will be required to operate the excavator, dump truck and small generator on the sand barge. The excavator and truck will be refuelled on land when it is required, to avoid any spills in the marine environment. Bulk transportation of fuel to the sand barge will be avoided at all times. Only required fuel will be transported to the sand barge in a dingy in closed containers. These containers will be refilled from the island will be kept ready for transportation when it is required.

4.4.7 Emergency Plan

Although fuel related emergencies are unlikely, the following measures will be undertaken immediately during an emergency of oil spill. These include, immediately confining the spilled oil by use of floating boom, in order to control its spread. Immediately removing oil within the boom by use of vacuum and transporting the oil to the island to keep in closed containers. Also, dispersants will be made available in case the oil spills are uncontrollable.

4.4.8 Key Project Inputs

Input resource(s) Source/type How to obtain resources

10 labour staff Foreign 6 / Local 4 Contractor Excavator 330 Local Contractor Dump truck 10t Local Contractor Submersible sand pump 200cbm/hour with 85m floating pipeline, Contractor connectors and horse Page 33

EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 Sand barge Local made floating Contractor 15kv Gen set For sand pump operation Contractor Maintenance tool and equipment Maintenance and spare parts and fluids Contractor required for the machinery Fuel and lubricant for machinery Diesel, Petrol, Lubricants From the island 50L per day Fresh water Desalinated water From the island 200L per day Work safety equipment Boots, gloves, life vests. Contractor Table 1: Key Project inputs

4.4.9 Key Project Outputs

Outputs (s) Anticipated quantities Disposal method Sand for the beaches 3,252 cbm Used for nourishing parts of northern shorelines Public beach 226m long Use by public Swimming area 1,300 sqm Use by public Sedimentation Small amount Controlled natural dispersion means Waste oil Approx. 2L per day Transported to the resort for incineration Noise and dust Small amount Confined to excavator and sand barge and operational area within the lagoon Table 2: Key Project Outputs

4.5 ACTIVITIES THAT ARE LIKELY TO CAUSE MAJOR ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS

Following are the activities that are likely to cause major environmental impacts to the surrounding marine and coastal environment from the proposed beach and swimming area development works to be carried out in Himmafushi island northern side;

 Sedimentation due to operation of excavator and sand pump within the lagoon and release of pumped material mostly comprising of sand and water  Changes in the nearhsore hydrodynamics within burrow site and new shoreline after beach nourishment (northern side)

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 4.6 AFFECTED BOUNDARIES

Based on the physical assessments undertaken from the site, the following figure shows potential environmental impact boundaries especially sedimentation that has been envisaged as part of the proposed development.

A key factor in determining the spread of sedimentation related to excavation and sand pumping works was considered to be primarily wind induced currents that form a major part of hydrodynamics around the island.

Nonetheless, the project is expected to have a localised sedimentation pattern.

Potential sedimentation zone (northern side)

Figure 7: Key impact boundary from the proposed project

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5. LEGISLATIVE AND REGULATORY FRAMEWORK

The following section addresses the legal and administrative framework applicable for the proposed project.

5.1 RELEVANT LAWS AND REGULATIONS

There are a number of laws and regulations relating to environmental protection and management in the country. Only relevant laws and regulations in relation to the proposed projects have been outlined in this section.

5.1.1 Environmental Protection and Preservation Act (Law No. 4/93) and First Amendment (Law No. 12/2014)

The Environmental Protection and Preservation Act of the Maldives, EPPA (Law No. 4/93) provides the basic framework for environmental management including Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process in the Maldives, which is currently being implemented by Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on behalf of Ministry of Environment and Energy (MEE).

Clause 2 of the EPPA mandates the Ministry of Environment and Energy to formulate policies, rules and regulations regarding the environment. In this regard, a number of policies and regulations have been formulated with regards to protecting and preserving the environment, most of which relevant for the proposed project have been outlined in this section.

Clause 5 of this Act specifically provides for provisions of environmental impact assessment (EIA), a tool implemented to attempt to integrate environmental issues into development decisions. As per this clause, the Ministry of Environment and Energy has the responsibility to develop specific regulations relevant for EIA including administering, implementing EIA process, EIA guidelines and standards as well as key requirements.

EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 The Clause 3 of the Environment Act has been amended by Law No. 12/2014 which now states that environmental protection including conservation of biological diversity, protection of groundwater resources and related environments including mangroves, swamps found in the islands, protection of the environment from waste and hazardous gases as well as formulate relevant policies, regulations, standards and implementation of such in consultation with other government agencies shall be a responsibility of the ministry assigned for implementing environmental policies.

As a development project, the proposed project has to comply with the requirements of the Environment Act and in particular with regards to preparing and approving an EIA prior to commencement of activities as outlined in Clause 5 of the Law.

5.1.2 EIA Regulation (2007), First Amendment (2012) and Second Amendment (2015)

The most important regulation concerning the proposed development is Environment Impact Regulation of 2007 developed under the EPPA (law No. 4/93), which is a guideline regulation for all EIA requirements. The Regulation amended in 2012 to include a Dhivehi version as per the requirements of Courts of Law in the Maldives.

The EIA Regulation 2012, outlines the key EIA procedures that is implemented in the country and the process that the projects requiring EIA has to follow. Furthermore, schedule D of the regulation identifies projects that require an EIA to be conducted. This regulation was used as a mainstream EIA process until the Third Amendment came into force in 2015.

The main aspects of the Third Amendment is exclusion of tourism-related projects requiring EIA as a tourism sector specific EIA regulation outlining an EIA process and procedures have been taken under the Tourism Act (Law No. 2/99) since August 2015 and certain administrative changes to some of the EIA procedures.

5.1.3 Environmental Damage Liabilities Regulation (2011)

Under the Environmental Protection and Preservation Act (No. 4/93), the Ministry of Environment and Energy formulated the Environmental Damage Liabilities Regulation in February 2011, which encompasses the basis to avoid environmental deterioration, extinction of biological resources, environmental degradation and avoid wastage of natural resources.

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 The main purpose of this regulation is to stop unlawful activities on environment and adequately implement a fining procedure for violations as well as implement a compensation mechanism on environmental damages. Its Schedules form the basis for levying fines on various environmental components and activities. Hence, the proposed project will be subject to this Regulation for any activity outside of the EIA scope and Environmental Decision Statement.

5.1.4 Dredging and Reclamation Regulation (2013)

Regulation on Reclamation and Dredging of islands lagoons (Regulation 2013/R-15) came into effect in April 2013. The regulation requires having permission of EPA on projects requiring alternation of the island, either by reclamation or dredging. Specifically the regulation requires producing scaled-maps of the island before and after the proposed intervention. Special provisions have been made on protected and sensitive area restricting changes to the environment of the islands. With recent change in the administrative process, the dredging permit can be applied while submitting the EIA to EPA and dredging permit will be given at the time of EIA approval.

5.1.5 Waste Management Regulation, 2013

Waste management Regulation (No. 2013/R-58) is more recent coming into effect on 6 February 2014. The Regulation was gazetted on 05 August 2013. The regulation is provides set of comprehensive guidelines and on collecting, storing, transporting and managing waste as well as management of hazardous waste. The waste management regulation identifies the following areas prohibited from dumping of waste; protected areas under the Environmental Protection and Preservation Act, mangroves, lagoons of islands, coral reefs, sand banks, beaches of islands, coastal vegetated areas of islands, harbors, parks and roads. Additionally, waste management regulation states that those involved in waste management must be permitted by the Environmental Protection Agency.

Although the proposed project does not have a large waste component, waste oil generated during excavator and sand barge operations will be appropriately disposed of as per the requirements of the regulation.

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 5.2 RELEVANT POLICIES

5.2.1 National Framework for Development, 2009-2013

One of the most important environmental policy guidance is given in the Strategic Action Plan (SAP) of the National Development Framework for 2009-2013. Due to the fragile nature of the country’s environment, all the development activities must ensure that appropriate care is taken to protect the environment. Environmental sustainability is the basis for socio- economic development, hence, the SAP outlines the key environmental policies that will be implemented in the country for environmental protection and sustainability, while one of the key environmental goals of the country is to protect and preserve the natural environment to ensure prosperous economic development. The environmental policies outlined in the SAP include;

Policy 1: Strengthen EIA process with an emphasis on EIA monitoring Policy 2: Conserve and sustainably use biological diversity and ensure maximum ecosystem benefits Policy 3: Develop resilient communities addressing impacts of climate change, disaster mitigation and coastal protection Policy 4: Strengthen adaptation and mitigation responses for beach erosion and develop a system to assist communities where livelihood and property are affected by beach erosion Policy 5: Ensure management of solid waste to prevent impact on human health and environment through approaches that are economically viable and locally appropriate Policy 6: Ensure protection of people and the environment from hazardous waste and chemicals Policy 7: Improve air quality to safeguard human health Policy 8: Enable a fully functional decentralized environmental governance system Policy 9: Develop a low carbon economy to achieve Carbon Neutrality by 2019 Policy 10: Inculcate environmental values in the society and enable environmentally friendly lifestyle

The Ministry of Environment and Energy and Environment Protection Agency takes the lead role in implementing the above national policies through various strategies and regulatory measures.

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 Although the proposed project is a socio-economic development project, it has taken into consideration environmental protection and environmental sustainability factor by incorporating environmental protection measures through implementation of the environment mitigation measures which will be outlined in Environmental Mitigation Measures section of this EIA report.

5.2.2 Maldives National Strategy for Sustainable Development, 2009

The Maldives National Strategy for Sustainable Development (NSSD) outlines the key objectives, principles and goals that the country will embark toward achieving sustainable development. Hence, the overall direction of the NSSD is to build a nation which appreciates the true value of the natural environment, utilizes its natural resources in a sustainable manner for national development, conserves its limited natural resources, has built the capacity to learn about its natural environment and leaves a healthy natural environment for future generations.

The guiding principles outlined in the NSSD are;

Principle 1: Promotion and protection of fundamental human rights Principle 2: Equity within and between generations Principle 3: Democratic and open society Principle 4: Full participation of businesses and civil society Principle 5: Policy coherence and coordination Principle 6: Use best available knowledge Principle 7: Precaution first Principle 8: Make polluters pay

While the country will be steered in accordance with the underlying principles of NSSD, the country aims to achieve very important environmental goals, including; adapting to climate change, protecting coral reefs, achieving carbon-neutrality in energy, ensuring food security, establishing a carbon neutral transport system, protecting public health and achieving full employment and ensuring social security.

The proposed project is in line with the NSSD including promotion and protection of fundamental human rights, equity within and between generations where adequate and safe

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 access to the island has been identified as a basic right of the community living in Himmafushi Island as well as for future generations that will reside on the island.

5.2.3 National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan, 2016 – 2025

One of the most recent policy documents that will the quite closely connected with the proposed development will be National Biodiversity and Strategy and Action Plan. The following strategies have been outlined in the NBSAP to be achieved in a span of 20 years; The strategies include

Strategy 1 – Strengthen governance, policies and strategies for biodiversity Strategy 2 – Enhancing communication and outreach through awareness programmes and capacity building Strategy 3 – Work together globally for biodiversity conservation Strategy 4 – Ensure sustainable use of biological resources Strategy 5 – Address threats to conserve biodiversity Strategy 6 – Strengthen Information Management and Resource Mobilization

As proposed project is located close to the Thanmburu Thila (1.5km SE), the project may have some environmental impacts that threatens the natural biological resources within the area. Also, the proposed project will be carried out in an area that will be quite far from core areas of the Biosphere Reserve, it is not believed to impact any ecologically significant area identified under the Biosphere Reserve.

5.3 RELEVANT AUTHORITIES

5.3.1 Ministry of Environment and Energy, MEE

The primary environmental institution in the Maldives is MEE. It is mandated with formulating policies, strategies, laws and regulations concerning environmental management, protection, conservation and sustainable development. The Minister of Environment or a designate gives the environmental approval or clearance to EIA by an Environmental Decision Statement. Additionally, MEE is responsible for formulating relevant laws and regulations, policies and strategies concerning energy, water and sanitation as well as waste

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 management.

5.3.2 Environment Protection Agency, EPA

EPA is the key regulatory body on environment, which is an autonomous body formed under the umbrella of MEE. It is mandated with implementing the EIA process in the Maldives, implementing the Environment Act and subsequent regulations on behalf of MEE, regulating water and sanitation, biodiversity conservation, waste management and coastal zone management. Also, it is responsible for developing environmental standards and guidelines in the country.

5.3.3 Ministry of Environment and Energy, MEE

5.3.4 Environmental Protection Agency, EPA

5.3.5 Islands Councils and Atolls Councils

Under the Maldives Decentralization Law, elected City Councils, Atoll Councils and Island Councils have been formed as regulatory bodies dealing directly with City, Atoll and Island

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 issues. In this regard, some of the development projects are subject to approval of these councils through a stakeholder consultation process.

In this regard, the project is proposed by the Himmafushi Island Council where they have identified a need for developing an appropriate beach and a swimming area for the island community for public use through a consultative process with the island community and among the Council Members.

Male’ Atoll Council, which is the highest authority in the project relevant area, only deals with policy and budget issues of Male’ Atoll.

5.4 PERMITS OBTAINED AND REQUIRED

Following are the permits already obtained and required with regards to implementing the proposed project in Himmafushi Island. These include;

5.4.1 Concept Approval

The initial concept and design of the project was approved by the Secretariat of the Himmafushi Island Council.

5.4.2 Dredging and Land Reclamation Permit

Application for Dredging permit will be submitted to EPA with the EIA. As a result of some procedural changes that have been brought in the EIA process in late 2015, the dredging approval will be given upon approval of the EIA for the project.

5.4.3 EIA Approval

The most important environmental permit to initiate the proposed project in Himmafushi island would be approval of this EIA report and issuance of an Environmental Decision Statement. The EIA Decision Statement, as it is referred to, shall govern the manner in which the project activities must be undertaken. It will be the final environmental clearance granted by the EPA for the proposed project.

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 6. EXISTING ENVIRONMENT

This section outlines the baseline environmental condition of the project site at Himmafushi and the surrounding environment where the project is believed to impact as a result of the proposed development.

6.1 DATA COLLECTION METHODS

This EIA is based on both qualitative and quantitative data collected from the northern side of Himmafushi at the project site and the surrounding environment as well as published information, where site specific information was not available. Also, the report addresses major information requirements as outlined in the Terms of Reference (TOR) for preparing this EIA Report.

Following are the key environmental components and and methods used to gather relevant data for the project.

6.1.1 Geophysical Environment

Mostly a descriptive analysis from the field surveys as well as published information, aerial photography, Google Earth maps and information available online from websites were used. It mainly includes geographic setting, geological and topographical information.

6.1.2 Climate Environment

Site-specific climate information was not available for the project site. Climate data from the Maldives Meteorological Services collected from the Ibrahim Nasir International Airport in the country as well as relevant data from websites were used in the general description of the climate environment, which is quite uniform throughout the country. It mainly includes general weather patterns including temperature, sunshine, rainfall as well as oceanographic features such as waves and swells information.

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 6.1.3 Coastal and Marine Environment

Most of the information on the marine environment was collected from field assessments and observations. These include;

Beach Profiles – beach profiles were taken by using standard level

Shorelines – existing shorelines were taken by using handheld GPS

Bathymetry – depth assessments were carried out by using echo sounder and a GPS. Echo sounder measurements were corrected and related to the mean sea-level for the area.

Currents – drogues and GPS were used to identify the currents around the project area in selected locations.

Coral reef health – quantitative assessments on selected locations were carried out by LIT and visual observations on these locations. These assessments were used to determine the general reef health of the reef including live coral cover and reef fish abundance and diversity.

Reef fish – reef fish abundance and diversity by means of visual reef fish census on selected locations in the marine environment was carried out

Seawater – seawater samples were collected from two locations in clean 1.5 L PET bottles. Laboratory analysis of the water samples were carried out by Male’ Water and Sewerage Company Ltd (MWSC).

6.1.4 Socio-economic Environment

The relevant socio-economic data of the island was collected from published information as well as from Himmafushi Island Council during the field visit.

6.1.5 Derivation of Environmental Indicators

The environmental indicators used for environmental monitoring purpose will be based on baseline environmental information collected for the purpose of this EIA. Historical data from site was not available.

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 6.1.6 Uncertainties on Data Collection Methods

As most of the data on the surrounding environment was manually collected, human error could be the biggest uncertainty with regards to the data collection methods, however, GPS coordinates have been recorded for future monitoring purposes as well as reduce human error as exact points will be monitored in the future to assess changes as a result of the proposed project development on the islands. Other uncertainty factor could be timing of assessments in the future as some of the environmental conditions such as currents, reef fish populations, and water quality, which changes from season to season. Nevertheless, the methods used in these assessments such as reef transects, drogues, echo sounding, etc are widely used to collect environmental data.

6.2 ASSESSMENTS UNDERTAKEN

The following figures outline main environmental assessments undertaken to establish baseline conditions and locations where these assessments were carried out.

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Figure 8: Existing shoreline and lagoon bathymetry of the project sites

Figure 9: Beach profiles taken from the project site (Section 1 - 4°18'42.56"N / 73°34'11.39"E: Section 2 - 4°18'42.36"N / 73°34'17.97"E) EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016

Figure 10: Drogue study from the project site (Drogue 1 - 4°18'44.38"N / 73°34'10.27"E: Drogue 2 - 4°18'50.43"N / 73°34'8.42"E) Page 49

EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016

REEF 1

SW 2

REEF 2

SW 1

Figure 11: Reef survey and seawater assessment locations Reef 1: 4°18'50.54"N / 73°34'16.78"E Reef 2: 4°18'48.77"N / 73°34'6.24"E SW 1: 4°18'44.48"N / 73°34'12.57"E SW 2: 4°18'49.83"N / 73°34'6.69"E Page 50

6.3 GEOPHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT

6.3.1 Geography and Environmental Setting

6.3.2 Geology and Geomorphology

The formation of the islands in the Maldives is from limestone-based coral rocks and coral reefs and sand derived from the reefs due to physical and biological actions over a long period of time.

Himmafushi is a well-established and a mature island, which is found in a relative large reef system. The reef system is shared by two other islands, Himmafushi being the northern most island in the reef. The northern side of the reef is developed into an atoll channel, hence is believed to be highly dynamic. The reef on the northern side is well developed with coral structure and rocks forming the subsurface of the reef. Since the island is found close to an atoll channel, the formation of the island has taken a peculiar shape.

EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 The formation of the island is believed to have originated from the NE side close to the atoll channel where the present island has an extended part. This extended part grew westwards, which must have settled in the middle parts of the lagoon where the island growth must have taken northward and southward growth to form the present island. The extended part on the eastern side of the island acts as a barrier and to some extent protects the northern side of the island from waves generated on the eastern side.

Figure 12: The extended part of the island on the eastern side

6.3.3 Characteristics of Seabed Sediments

The seabed characteristics of the proposed area for seagrass removal on the northern side lagoon were observed to have different compositions in terms of material.

The nearshore side on the NE half of the proposed area mostly consisted of dead rocks and rubble that is extensively covered by sediments. The sediments are believed to be occurring from eastern side where it gets settled in the lagoon. The lagoon visibility is low having only 2 – 3m and the seawater is murky.

On the outer side of the lagoon along the NE half of the proposed area, the seabed composition is seagrass and areas of fine and muddy sand extensively covered by sediments.

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 The seagrass growth is slightly less compared to other areas, however, the visibility and seawater condition remains the same.

Figure 13: The seabed condition of nearshore lagoon on the NE half

Figure 14: The outer lagoon condition on the NE half

The outer lagoon on the NW side was mostly covered with extensive seagrass growths of Thalassia hemrichii. No other life forms were observed except for small and juvenile fish. The sediment where the seagrass growth occurred was observed to be soft and muddy. The area covered with extensive seagrass on the outer lagoon is believed to be around 650m2. The visibility was generally good having over 7m and there seawater was less murky.

Certain areas on the inner lagoon on the NW part of the proposed area were covered with rubble, sand and some rocks. No live corals and no fish were found within the area. Closer to the beach some seagrass formations were also found.

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016

Figure 15: The outer lagoon condition on the NW part

Figure 16: The inner lagoon condition on the NW part

6.4 CLIMATE ENVIRONMENT

As site information on climate environment was unavailable, relevant secondary information collected from Maldives Meteorological Service (MMS) and websites have been used. For the purpose of this study, weather reports published by MMS for the month of April 2016 from the closest weather station to the project site, which is from Ibrahim Nasir International Airport at Hulhule’ have been used. Generally speaking, the climate conditions in the Maldives have very little variation.

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 6.4.1 Climatic Setting

Maldives is in the Monsoonal Belt in the North Indian Ocean. Therefore, climate in the Maldives is dominated by south-west (Hulhangu) and north-east (Iruvai) monsoons. The southwest monsoon is the rainy season which lasts from May to September and the north-east monsoon is the dry season that occurs from December to February.

6.4.2 Temperature

Field assessments in the project site were undertaken in April 2016. Temperature comparison for 2015 and 2016 for the month of April recorded from Hulhule’ was used to outline the temperature.

Figure 17: Comparison of max (above) and min (below) temperature for April 2015 and 2016 (Source: www.meteorology.mv)

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 The highest temperature recorded in central part of the Maldives April 2016 was 34 degree Celsius, which was recorded on the 15th. The minimum temperature recorded in the same area for the April 2016 was 23 degree Celsius and was recorded on the 16th of April. On the other hand, the highest temperature recorded in April 2015 in central part of the country was 33 degree Celsius, which was recorded on the 12th. Furthermore, the minimum temperature recorded in the central part in April 2015 was 25 degree Celsius, recorded on the 07th and 30th.

6.4.3 Rainfall

In April 2016, the central part of the country received a total of 232mm rainfall. The highest rainfall within 24 hours was recorded on 22 April and amounts to 90mm of rainfall. The rainfall received in April 2015 was 200mm, less than that of April 2016. Figure below shows daily total rainfall (2015 and 2016) and daily average rainfall for the month of April in central part of Maldives.

Figure 18: Comparison of rain for April 2015 and 2016 (Source: www.meteorology.mv)

6.4.4 Sunshine

The beginning of every year receives about 12 hours of sunshine per day, which drastically reduces as the year moves to the later half beginning from May. This is more or less attributed to increased rain during the second half of the year.

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016

Figure 19: Comparison of sunshine for April 2015 and 2016 (Source: www.meteorology.mv)

Central part of the country received sunshine for 30 days April 2016, which amounts to 249 hours 06 minutes. Furthermore, in April 2015 central part of the country received sunshine for 30 days, which amounts to 291 hours 30 minutes. Figure below shows daily sunshine (2015 and 2016) and daily average sunshine for the Month of April for central part of Maldives.

6.4.5 Winds

April 2016, the maximum wind speed in Central part of the country was experienced on the 18th at 00:40 hours from north-north-west at a speed of 38 mph. However, the maximum wind speed in central part in April 2015 was recorded on the 30th at 09:10 hours at a speed of 29 mph from west. Figure below shows daily maximum wind speed (2015 and 2016) and daily average maximum wind speed for the Month of April for central part of Maldives.

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016

Figure 20: Comparison of wind speed for April 2015 and 2016 (Source: www.meteorology.mv)

Following is a wind frequency chart (wind rose) for Hulhule for April 2016.

Figure 21: Wind frequency chart of Gan for May 2016 (Source: www.meteorology.mv)

This is the wind rose for Hulhule based on hourly wind data of the month April 2016. This rose shows that the winds at Hulhule during the period blow from t west-south-west, southwest, west-north-west, north-west and north-north-west comprise about 30% of all hourly wind directions. Wind rarely blew from other directions in April 2016.

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 6.5 COASTAL AND MARINE ENVIRONMENT

6.5.1 Tides

Tidal currents as well as oceanic currents mostly emanate from the NE side of the island and the reef. The reef is formed in between two large reefs in the eastern side of the atoll, hence oceanic swells are generated mostly generated from the eastern side of the reef. The exposure of NE side of the reef to the vast Ocean ensures that continuous movement of water into the atoll, which is believed to be more prominent during NE monsoons.. The currents can be extremely strong in the channels found on the south of the reef system especially during ebb and flow into the atoll.

Current speeds of four knots or more have been recorded in the atoll channels in the country. Oceanic currents are largely influenced by the direction of trade winds and can be of great strengths. Tidal currents which flow according the height of the tide and the direction of prevailing wind are much weaker than oceanic currents.

Like most of the places semidiurnal tides are experienced in the atoll, that is two high tides and two low tides a day. The tide varies from place to place, depending on the location and on the shape and depth of the basin, channels and reefs and also time of the year. The following figure shows tidal prediction for 31 January – 6 February 2016, taken from www.tidetime.org/asia/maldives/male.tm accessed on 31 January 2016. Male’ is the closest area to the island where tide prediction was obtained.

Figure 22: Male’ tide predictions from 31 January – 6 February 2016 (www.tidetime.org/asia/maldives/male.htm)

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 6.5.2 Currents

Current assessments were carried out within the project area, two drogues from the lagoon of the site were taken (Figure 10). Following are the currents assessed within the project area.

Location Speed Drogue 1 (4°18'44.38"N / 73°34'10.27"E) 0.14m/s Drogue 2 (4°18'50.43"N / 73°34'08.42"E) 0.18m/s Table 3: Current assessment

Currents recorded from the nearshore were less having 0.14m/s (Drogue 1) than that of outer lagoon area having 0.18m/s (Drogue 2), which is located close to the channel. Continuous currents were observed on the natural channel found on NE side of the proposed project area.

6.5.3 Swells and Waves

Relatively large swells are generated from the sea on the eastern side of Himmafushi. These swells enter into the atoll from channels found on the eastern periphery of the atoll. As there are two islands found at the mouth of the channel, namely Girifushi and Thamburudhoo. Of these two islands, Thamburudhoo island being located outer side, hence, these swells approach the island forming extensive wave formations. Two famous surfing points are located on the southern side of Thamburudhoo, namely, Honkeys and Sultan.

Figure 23: Waves found at the southern side of Thamburudhoo at Sultan

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016

Figure 24: Swells map for North Male Atoll (www.surf-forecast.com)

A swells map obtained from www.surf-forecast.com indicate that the highest swells in the area is at 1.2m above MSL.

As a result of swells generated on the eastern side, waves are formed along the eastern periphery of the reef and parts of the NE corner, which is also a well-known surf area, Jail Breaks. However, direct waves are not observed on the northern side reef, which is believed to be due to protection from the extend part of the island found on the eastern side lagoon.

The following figure summarizes hydrographic condition found around the proposed project area on the northern side of Himmafushi island.

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016

SW Currents

Waves NE Currents

Swells

Waves

Figure 25: A generalized hydrodynamics around the project area during NE and SW

6.5.4 Lagoon Bathymetry

A detailed lagoon bathymetry was undertaken from the proposed project area in order to understand the average depths of the lagoon in relation to MSL (Figure 8). The average depth of the nearshore lagoon where the beach will be developed is -0.4m MSL and the lagoon area where swimming area will be developed by removing seagrass has a depth of -0.8m MSL.

6.5.5 Beaches around the Project Area

For the purpose of this EIA beaches around the island has not been considered as the proposed project is only concentrated on the northern side of the island. Also, due to the development of the harbor and the boatyard on the western side of the island, sand movement around the island is restricted and beach formation around the island is confined to certain areas.

A small area on the northern side of the island, particularly western half of the proposed project area has a small beach having a length of 100m and a width of about 10m. This beach has been observed to be permanent, with slight westward and eastward movement only Page 62

EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 within the western half of the project area in accordance with the prevailing season. However, the beach does not come all the way to the eastern side of the proposed project area, where there is no beach.

Figure 26: Comparison of beach during 2011 (left) and 2013 (right)

The formation of the beach on the area is believed to have occurred as a result of backfilling of the northern side of the harbor, which was undertaken in 2008. Since then, this small beach exists.

Figure 27: The area before harbor development (2005) and after harbor development (2008)

As can be seen from the above figure, there was no proper beach on the northern side before the habour was constructed, however, during then a harbor basin exists. After the development of the harbor in 2008, the northern side of the harbor was backfilled along with the northern shoreline. A beach area was created, nonetheless, some sand is seen washed into the lagoon on to the seagrass beds.

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016

Figure 28: Small beach area on the north within the proposed project area

6.5.6 Coastal Dynamics and Erosion

As mentioned before, very small beach areas exist on the northern shoreline of the island where the project is proposed. Presence of beach is restricted to the western half on the northern side of the island (Figure 27).

The eastern half of the project area lacks a beach and is currently undergoing erosion. The lack of beach on this area is believed to be due to the seasonal swells, waves and wind- induced currents generating from the eastern side of the island. This hydrodynamic condition is believed to pushe the sand westwards, hence a small sand spit like formation is found (Figure 27). However, the lagoon is characterized by relatively calmer conditions with extensive growth of seagrass and presence of sedimentation within the lagoon.

Elsewhere on the project site, particularly on the eastwards, no proper beach is found.

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016

Figure 29: The eastern half of the northern side

Generally speaking, coastal dynamics around the island is very much restricted due to development of the harbor and a boatyard on the western side. Also on the eastern side, the extended island formation blocks most of the sand to move from south and east to north. What happens in terms of sand accumulation and erosion on the northern side is believed to be fairly independent from other locations of the island.

6.5.7 Assessments on Coral Reefs

Two areas from the coral reef on the northern side likely to be affected by proposed beach and swimming area development has been assessed to understand the general reef health conditions (Figure 11).

An important factor in determining reef health in biological terms is to assess the percent cover of live and dead component or determining composition of the reef in selected locations and generalize the findings to the project area. In order to understand the biological content of the reef system, assessments involving, visual observations, LITs (20m transects) and visual fish census have been carried out on each reef survey site (Figure 11). All areas are Page 65

EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 geo-referenced for the purpose of future monitoring in order to understand environmental impacts on them as a result of proposed development.

The two areas surveyed were characterized by steep reef slopes and absence of large coral formations. Two areas were similar in condition with low levels of live coral and high content of dead coral and rubble. Most of the corals were found on the upper reef slope, while the lower reef slope mostly consisted of sand. There are two thoughts with regards to absence of large corals on these areas. Firstly, the large corals from the area have been either mined long time ago for construction purpose. Secondly, due to the high currents that pass through the channel, coral colonization could be unfavored.

Although the two areas had similar reef conditions, the reef composition on both sides are slightly different. The main reef composition on Reef 1 was Porites and Pocillopora while on Reef 2, the main composition is a mix of Porites, Pocillopora and Acropora. However, most of the Acropora corals found from the site was observed to be dead.

Both areas were affected by some coral bleaching and some of the few live corals found on both sites were bleached. On average coral bleaching observed from the reef was low, which is mainly because of absence of branching corals, which are more prone to coral bleaching. However, some individual corals have been observed to have been affected by bleaching.

Figure 30: General conditions at Reef 1

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016

Figure 31: General conditions at Reef 2

Figure 32: Some individual corals affected by bleaching along the northern reef

The following figures summarize main findings of the reef assessments carried out from the reef survey areas.

Figure 33: Coral cover at the survey sites at Himmafushi (LC=live coral, DC = dead coral, DCA = dead coral with algae, RCK = rock, RBL = rubble, SND = sand) Page 67

EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 The coral reef assessments indicate that out of the two sites, the highest live coral cover recorded was from Reef 2 located on the western part of the northern reef having a live coral cover of 8%. Reef 1 located on the eastern half of the northern reef had only 5% live coral cover. The dead coral compositions on all sites were above 20% cover.

6.5.8 Assessments on Reef Fish

Reef fish assessments were also carried out in conjunction with the reef assessments along the same 20m transects on the three reef sites. Visual reef fish census was done on each transect in a belt having 2.5m on either side of each transect. Fishes encountered along the belt were counted or estimated. Reef fish were recorded at family level.

Following figure shows the result of the reef fish assessment undertaken on the three sites.

Figure 34: Reef fish assessment results from Reef 1 and 2 at Himmafushi Page 68

EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 Generally speaking, the reef fish abundance and diversity was observed to be low compared to other reefs. This may be because of low live coral cover. The results of the reef fish assessments indicate that the reef fish abundance and diversity found on the two sites were similar, where Reef 1 has a total number of 50 fish belonging to 10 families and Reef 2 has a total number of 55 fish belonging to 14 families. Thus, in terms of reef fish abundance and diversity, Reef 1 is slightly better.

6.5.9 Assessments on Seawater

Seawater samples from two different locations (Figure 11) were taken and tested by the laboratories at MWSC for the parameters in the following table to establish the baseline status of seawater around the project sites. Seawater test results are attached in Appendix 3.

Perimeter Unit SW 1 SW 2 Physical Appearance Clear with Clear with particles particles Conductivity Us/cm 51000 50500 pH 8.28 8.55 Salinity % 33.40 33.08 Temperature DC 22.1 22.6 TSS mg/L 9 6 Turbidity NTU 3.33 0.328 Table 4: Seawater analysis results

The seawater conditions at the two project sites were fairly good in condition. Total Suspended Solids and Turbidity is relatively high at SW1, which is located nearshore . This is believed to be due to sedimentation from ongoing erosion on the northern shoreline. The results will be used as baseline for monitoring the water quality around the project site during the development and operation phases of the proposed resort.

6.5.10 Marine Protected Areas and Sensitive Sites

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 6.6 HAZARDS VULNERABILITY

The following information on the vulnerability of the islands in the Maldives are taken from published literature such as Natural Hazard and Physical Vulnerability Assessment Report by UNDP (2008) as site –specific information on vulnerability of the lagoon was not available. According to the UNDP (2008) the natural vulnerability of the islands and atolls of the country to potential environmental hazards have been modeled to understand the risk factors of the country.

6.6.1 Major Natural Hazards

According to the UNDP assessment report, the natural hazards prevailing in the Maldives can be classified into 4 categories. These are;

 Geological hazards i.e. earthquakes and coastal erosion;  Meteorological hazard i.e. tropical cyclones and storms, thunder storms, waterspouts, heavy rainfall, and drought;  Hydrological hazards i.e. floods induced by heavy rainfall, storm surges, swell waves, udha, and tsunamis;  Climate-related hazards i.e. accelerated sea level rise, sea surface temperature rise, changes in monsoon pattern.

Among those listed above, floods (induced by tsunamis, abnormal swell waves, and heavy rainfall), windstorms, droughts, and earthquake are counted as major natural hazards prevailing in the Maldives.

The general patterns of the major natural hazards prevailing in the Maldives can be well summarised in Figure 35.

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016

Figure 35: Relationship between hazard intensity and frequency of major natural hazards in the Maldives (UNDP, 2008)

6.6.2 Distribution Pattern of Natural Hazards

The major natural hazards in the Maldives are strictly controlled by their geophysical and climatic settings and show quite different patterns in their distribution, as shown in Figures 83 and 84. Tropical cyclones and correspondingly storm surges and droughts predominantly prevail in the north of the Maldives. In contrast, swell waves and heavy rainfalls are more prominent in the southern and western islands of the Maldives. The southern islands of the Maldives are threatened earthquakes from the seismic zone of Carlsberg Ridge.

There are also longitudinal variations in hazard distribution. The most notable is the occurrence of tsunami waves and their impacts. The eastern rim islands are subject to tsunamis and waves of a higher intensity due to their direct exposure to these hazards, whereas the western rim and atoll lagoon islands are protected by the atoll formation patterns. Impacts of swell waves and udha events are also expected to be highest on the western rim island due to the south westerly and westerly approach of these events. However, their impacts aren’t totally reduced on the eastern rim islands due to the propagation of swell waves through reef passes and fetch within atoll lagoon.

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016

Figure 36: Latitudinal variations of major natural hazards across the Maldives (UNDP, 2008).

Figure 37: Longitudinal variations of major natural hazards across the Maldives (UNDP, 2008)

Based on the above analysis, it can be said that the proposed project area is relatively in a safe zone from major natural disasters due to its location in the central parts of the country (Figure 36).

However, the island being located on the eastern periphery of Male’ Atoll, the area has potential hazard if there is a tsunami from the eastern side of the Maldives. Also, there is moderate risk of udha and swells from the eastern direction (Figure 43).

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 6.7 SOCIO-ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT

6.7.1 Population

According to the Population and Housing Census of 2014, the total population of the island is 1,725. The population includes 397 foreigners living on the island. Of the total population, 1,241 are males and 484 are females. The population density of the island is 51.65 persons per hectare.

In 2006, the total population of the island was 1007 (Census 2006), hence, over the last 10 years, population of the island grew by 4% per year.

Himmafushi has some light industrial establishments including a boatyard, a bottling plant and a fish processing facility in addition to the established Drug Rehabilitation Center where large land areas have been allocated for such development, which puts pressure on available land on the island. Therefore, expansion of land has been proposed for the island. In this regard, land reclamation of 21.6ha on the SE side of the island will soon be implemented.

6.7.2 Health and Education

Health services are provided by the Health Center on the island. Pharmacies have been established on the island where basic medicines are available. As the island is located close to Male’ and has good connectivity, people often travel for medical reasons.

Education is provided by the Himmafushi School at Pre-School, Primary and Lower Secondary levels. The total student population of the island is 221 (Ministry of Education, 2013) and the total number of teachers are 24. The student teacher ratio is 9:1.

6.7.3 Water, Sanitation and Energy

Currently rainwater and desalination water are mainly used for drinking purpose on the island. For all other uses, the island still uses groundwater.

There is no established sewerage network on the island at present. Most houses use septic tanks. A proper sewerage system has been planned for the island.

The island now uses cooking gas as the main energy source for cooking.

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 6.7.4 Electricity

Currently electricity to the island is provided by STELCO and is available for 24 hours. The installed capacity of generators in the island is 1,010kW with 200, 250, 200, 360kW generators. The monthly average usage is 142,437 kWh and the oil consumption is estimated to be 516,663 liters per year (MEE, 2013).

6.7.5 Waste Management

A designated waste collection area has been established on the island. Often residual wastes are transported to Thilafushi.

6.7.6 Public Infrastructure

A well-developed harbor is available on the island. Additionally, mosques, the school, health center form part of the public infrastructure developed on the island.

6.7.7 Transportation

Public ferry services connecting the island to Male’ and to other islands in the atoll are available and generally a number of people use this service. Also, as the island has some industrial activities, transportation by private establishments are also available on a frequent basis.

6.7.8 Local Economy

The local economy of the island is supported by a number of activities. These include to a large extent employment on the island by industrial establishments, fishing, guest shops, guest houses, rent from industrial land areas, shops and cafes. As the island is situated close to a number of tourist resorts, a number of youths are employed at the resorts.

Tourist-related businesses such as guest houses and guest shops are thriving on the island. Both local and foreign tourism have good contribution to the local island economy. More recently, water sports have been introduced to the island in relation to guest houses development. A number of guest houses are now in the development stage.

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016

Figure 38: Some of the guest houses developed on the island: Just Surf Villa (top left), Kanbili Guesthouse (top right), Mango Surf House (bottom left) and the guest shop Mango Guest Shop(bottom right)

6.7.9 Urban Development

A Land Use Plan (LUP) has been developed in 2008 where a zoned development for various types of development has been allocated and now occurs in accordance with the LUP.

As part of the overall development plan, an area of 21.6ha on the SE side of the island has been planned to be reclaimed. The land reclamation project will be initiated in July 2016.

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016

Figure 39: Land Use Plan of the island

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 7. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS

The following section predicts potential environmental impacts from proposed beach and swimming area development to be carried out in Himmafushi Island located in Male’ Atoll. Once the potential environmental impacts are identified, the impacts are evaluated to identify their significance. In order to identify and analyze environmental impacts, the following methods have been used.

7.1 METHODS

7.1.1 Impact Prediction

The environmental impacts that may be generated as a result of the proposed project is predicted and is distinguished from construction and operation phases of the project. The impacts have been predicted by using a simple descriptive matrix. The prediction of environmental impacts also to a great extent incorporated expert judgment and professional opinions of the EIA consultant as well as statements of the EIAs reviewed in this EIA report. Once the impacts are predicted, a detailed description has been given in order to understand the nature and type of impacts.

7.1.2 Impact Significance Analysis

The environmental impacts are analysed in terms of significance. Significance is the function of magnitude of the impact and the likelihood of the impact occurring and the impact magnitude is a function of the extent, duration and intensity of the impact. The criteria used to determine impact significance are summarized in the following table (adapted from Environmental Resource Management, 2008).

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016

Table 5: Impact significance criteria

Once a rating has been determined for magnitude and likelihood, the following matrix has been used to determine the impact significance.

Table 6: Significance rating matrix

The different ratings of impact significance are then given a colour scale for easily understanding the overall magnitude of the impact. The following colour scale has been used.

Negative Ratings Positive Ratings Negligible Negligible Minor Minor Moderate Moderate Major Major

Table 7: Significance colour scale

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 7.1.3 Limitations and Uncertainties

The potential environmental impacts from the proposed project are all predicted and assumed, hence there may be variables affecting the accuracy of these impacts due to natural variations such as site conditions and uncertainties in scales and magnitudes. Also the limited time available for undertaking baseline environmental assessments is also a key limiting factor in terms of determining the accuracy of the environmental impacts. The assessments were done during one season and impacts are predicted based on these assessments, however, how the magnitudes of these impacts and how they behave during the other season are quite uncertain.

EIA studies undertaken in similar environmental settings and technical experience as well as professional judgment of the EIA team have been used as support while predicting and evaluating these environmental impacts.

Since the environmental, geomorphological and physical oceanography of the islands of the Maldives are unique, the degree and accuracy of the predicted impacts when applied even in other islands of the Maldives in similar project settings, may differ in accuracy, magnitude and significance.

7.1.4 Justification of the Method Used

There are many ways and a number of methods in which environmental impacts that arise from development projects can be assessed and evaluated. The methods used for the purpose of predicting and evaluating the significance of environmental impacts is an accepted and internationally recognized as well as widely used methods throughout the world in a number of development projects. Although it is adapted for the condition of the project by the EIA consultant from Environmental Resource Management, 2008 literature, the approach as well as intended outcomes still remain same.

EIA is a decision-making tool, hence, needs to be understood by both technical and non- technical people. The use of colour codes for determining the significance of each and every impact related to the proposed project in the methods used has been demonstrated to be quite effective, especially with non-technical people.

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 7.2 IMPACT PREDICTION

The environmental impacts that may be associated with the proposed beach nourishment project are predicted in this section by using a simple descriptive matrix. The following matrix distinguishes the types of environmental impacts on key environmental components and distinguishes whether these are impacts during project implementation or during operations period.

The following table predicts the nature and types of environmental impacts based on the existing environmental condition of the sites and the surrounding environment.

ENVIRONMENTAL COMPONENTS AND ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS PROJECT Reef IMPLICATION Vegetation Beach Lagoon ACTIONS Habitat PERIOD Groundwater Shoreline Hydrodynamics Seawater Changes in local hydrodynamics of the lagoon Impacts on reef within the area habitats and Removal of seagrass is organisms due During seagrass by removed, direct to construction excavation destruction of sedimentation, seagrass habitat, turbid seawater sedimentation and turbid lagoon waters Changes in hydrodynamics May have Impacts on reef around burrow Sand pumping from some negative habitats and site, impacts on proposed burrow impacts on organisms due During marine site (seagrass shoreline to construction organisms, removed area) during the sedimentation, Sedimentation, process turbid seawater turbid lagoon waters Changes in May have Impacts on reef nearshore some negative habitats and Sand disposal at hydrodynamics impacts on organisms due During beach development due to new shoreline to construction area beach area, during the sedimentation, turbid lagoon process turbid seawater waters Operation of Short-term During machinery in exposure to construction project area noise and dust Changes in Impacts on reef Maintenance sand nearshore habitats and May have pumping and hydrodynamics organisms due During impacts on disposal at beach due to new to operation beach areas area beach area, sedimentation, turbid lagoon turbid seawater

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 waters Solid waste Loss of Loss of Pollution in the Pollution in the During disposal aesthetics aesthetics lagoon reef operation Table 8: Impact prediction table

The above table shows the main project activities and the environmental components upon which the environmental impacts will occur. The environmental impacts on various environmental components during the construction phase of the proposed project seem greater while only maintenance dredging of the swimming area and solid waste due to excessive public use have been identified to be causing certain impacts during operation phase.

7.3 DESCRIPTION OF IMPACTS

7.3.1 Construction Phase Impacts

7.3.1.1 Impacts from Removal of Seagrass by Excavation

As part of the proposed development, removal of seagrass by use of excavator from an area of 1,300m2 has been proposed. The excavation is believed to yield 3,252m3 of dredged material of which 10 – 15% is believed to be seagrass. A number of impacts are believed to occur during the process of seagrass removal by excavation.

Sedimentation

During excavation, sedimentation is believed to cause most of the damage to the environment. In this regard, corals and marine organisms on the northern and western side of the reef may be affected in addition to murky lagoon and seawater conditions.

As per the baseline assessment, currents generally flow westwards, hence, impacts of sedimentation to the nearest MPA Thamburudhoo Thila is unlikely, because the MPA is located 1.2km east from the project area.

Sedimentation impact on any of the Sensitive Sites is also unlikely as they are found over 4km north and 7km south.

This sedimentation is believed to be of short-term in nature.

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 Seagrass

Removal of seagrass will directly affect the seagrass habitat found within the northern lagoon of the island. Some of these impacts include direct removal of seagrass, which will impact marine organisms and juvenile fish that inhabit these seagrass as well as sedimentation into nearby seagrass areas, which may affect other seagrass areas and their habitats.

Seagrass from 1.300m2 area will be removed, thus this area will be directly damaged.

During the process of excavation, sedimentation may cover the immediate reef areas impacting corals and reef fish.

Hydrodynamics

As a result of excavation of the seagarass, the area will be at least 1m deep, which may alter the hydrodynamics around and within the area where seagrass is removed. However, this alteration is not believed to impact shoreline on the northern side. There will only be a localized impact.

7.3.1.2 Impacts from Sand Pumping from Burrow Site

Once seagrass layer is removed by excavation, sand pumping will be undertaken from the area which will be discharged at the northern shoreline where the proposed beach will be developed. The sand pumping area is the proposed swimming area. Sand will be pumped having a shallow lagoon area towards the shoreline.

Sedimentation

During the process of sand pumping, some environmental impacts, especially on the marine and coastal environments have been envisaged. In this regard, impacts from sedimentation within the area and around the reef areas on the western side and northern side may be affected, which is believed to cause smothering of corals in the reef, and temporary deterioration of seawater quality due to increased turbid water conditions. Another impact on the reef within the vicinity is believed to be temporary loss of reef fish populations and other marine organisms.

Sedimentation is not believed to reach any of the MPAs and the Sensitive Sites located in the proximity as stated earlier.

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 Hydrodynamics

Also, as a result of sand pumping from the burrow site, which will create an immediate deep area within the lagoon potentially bringing about changes in the local hydrodynamics around the area. Increased currents in the areas due to sand pumping particularly towards the NW lagoon are likely, however, overall changes to the lagoon environment are believed to be localized to the project area.

7.3.1.3 Impacts from Sand Disposal at Northern Beach Area

Sand pumped from the proposed burrow site will be disposed at the northern beach area identified for beach development through a floating pipeline. During disposal of sand, which comes mixed with water, certain environmental impacts are likely.

Shorelines

The most direct impact will be possible changes in the shorelines of nearby areas due to sudden increase of beach in the eroded are on the eastern half of the northern shoreline. The proposed beach will have 10m width and will be 226m long. The beach area currently found on the western half of the project area will be joined by the sand pumped, to make a single beach on the area.

In order to make the beach composition even with the existing beach, sand pumped will be piled in the area. Once pumping is completed, sieving of sand will occur by using a net frame. Snd on the beach will only be used after sieving. Only fine sand having same grain sizes as the existing beach will be used on the eastern half, so that it will look more natural.

On the beaches elsewhere on the island, particularly the southern side of the island, little impacts or no impacts have been envisaged due to presence of the harbor and the boatyard on the western side and the extended part of the island on the eastern side, where they will be blocking beach sand on both western and eastern sides.

Sedimentation

Some sediment may runoff into the immediate lagoon causing short-term turbid water conditions and decreased visibility in the northern areas of the island. Also, some of these sedimentation may reach northern and NW reef areas causing some impacts on corals and

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 marine organisms, however, it is unlikely that all these sediments will stay on the reef over a long period time.

Sedimentation is not believed to reach any of the MPAs and the Sensitive Sites located in the proximity as stated earlier.

Hydrodynamics

Because of the sudden increase in the beach areas on the northern shoreline, nearshore hydrodynamics are also believed to alter, which may initially increase erosion on the project area as it is believed that the currents generating from east will be felt slightly stronger onto the new and extended shoreline.

Furthermore, because of the prevailing current, wave and swells direction, the sedimentation is believed to be felt more on the NW side reef. However, the reef on the NW side had very little live coral cover having only 8%, thus impacts on live corals will be very minimal. Additionally, it is believed that the currents will take sedimentation out of the reef into the sea on the western side, where it will get settled gradually.

7.3.1.4 Impacts from Operation of Machinery in the Project Area

As part of the proposed project in Himmafushi, some construction machinery such as an excavator, dump truck and sand pump will be used in the operations. During the operation of these machinery, impacts from noise and dust may be generated. Noise and dust pollution may have health implications to the island community.

However, the operation of these machinery to a large extent will be undertaken within the project area in the lagoon and beach on the northern shoreline, the noise and dust felt on the community will be very minimal. It may not be a nuisance that will have significant effects. Nonetheless, some noise and small amounts of dust will be released, which will only be generated during operation hours and are likely to be confined to the project area.

7.3.1.5 Construction-related Hazards and Risks

Construction related hazards such as pollution from oil discharges from the proposed project are envisaged to be minimal. However, it is not completely free from the risk and potential accidents. During an accidental oil spill, the coral reef, reef fish, seagrass beds and other

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 marine organisms on the northern side may be affected as well as marine waters in the area may get polluted.

There is no risk of waste water or construction waste from the proposed project as such activities are not part of the project.

7.3.2 Operation Phase Impacts

7.3.2.1 Impacts from Maintenance Sand Pumping

During the operation period of the project, the main impact to the swimming area and the new beach area will be filling of sand within the swimming area and erosion in the beach due to natural process. As a result, maintenance sand pumping will be required to deepen the swimming area and the pumped sand will be used on the beach.

As the entire lagoon covers extensive seagrass, the swimming area may be recolonized with seagrass, where removal of seagrass will be required.

Impacts from maintenance sand pumping will be similar to that of impacts outlined in the construction phase.

However, maintenance sand pumping is not expected to be required for at least 5 – 7 years.

7.3.2.2 Impacts from Solid Waste

Once completed, the area will be used as a prime recreational area, hence excessive use is believed to generate solid waste in the area. If solid wastes are inappropriately disposed in the area, some environmental impacts are likely, including decreased aesthetics as well as pollution in the lagoon and reef environments.

7.3.3 Indirect and Cumulative Impacts

The most notable indirect impact from the proposed will be that the area cannot be either accessible to the community or used during the project implementation period.

A large land reclamation project involving reclamation of 21.6ha on the SE side of the island will soon be implemented in Himmafushi. As it a land reclamation project, a number of environmental impacts, particularly on the marine and coastal environment will happen including sedimentation on the reef areas, alteration of local hydrodynamics as well as Page 85

EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 subsequent changes in the shorelines of the island are some of the cumulative impacts. However, the extent in which these impacts will happen in the environment is unknown.

A guesthouse project is also planned in close proximity to the proposed project area on the NE side, where proper beach development is likely to happen. This development will also have some cumulative impacts to the proposed beach and swimming area.

7.3.4 Socio-economic Impacts

The proposed project is based on an immediate requirement of the island community and the proposed project is believed to bring more socio-economic benefits or positive impacts to the island and the community than negative implications.

An important direct benefit of the project will be during project implementation phase where construction workers will stay on the island in rented houses, buy necessary material, food and water from the island as well as may provide some short-term employment opportunities.

In the long-term, the island will have a proper swimming and a recreational area for the community and visitors to use and enjoy. More recreational activities as well as commercial activities can be planned in the area in the future.

The island has a community that engaged in a number of activities and as a result of the proposed project, destabilization of community is not expected as the project is done as a basic requirement of the entire island community, which will bring future benefits.

7.4 IMPACT ANALYSIS AND EVALUATION

The following section analyses and evaluates the previously described environmental and socio-economic impacts in order to identify their significance.

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016

IMPACT SIGNIFICANCE During Construction Phase ACTIVITY/IMPACT EXTENT DURATION INTENSITY LIKELIHOOD MAGNITUDE COLOUR SCALE 1. Removl of segrass by excavation a. Sedimentation Local Temporary Low Definite Minor b. Seagrass Onsite Permanent Medium Definite Moderate c. Hydrodynamics Local Temporary Low Likely Minor

2. Sand Pumping from Propsoed Burrow Site a. Sedimentation Local Temporary Low Definite Minor b. Hydrodynamics Local Temporary Low Likely Minor

3. Sand Disposal at Beach a. Shorelines Onsite Temporary Low Likely Minor b. Sedimentation Local Short-term Medium Definite Moderate c. Hydrodynamics Local Short-term Medium Likely Moderate

4. Operation of machinery in the project area Onsite Short-term Low Unlikely Negligible

3. Construction-related hazards and risks Onsite Short-term Low Unlikely Negligible

During Operation Phase 1. Operation phase impacts Local Long-term Medium Definite Moderate

2. Solid waste Onsite Long-term Low Likely Minor

3. Socio-economic impacts Local Long-term Medium Likely Moderate Table 9: Impact analysis table

The above environmental impact analysis indicates that most of the environmental impacts occur during construction are of short-term and during operation are of long-term in nature. Most of the impacts during construction have minor to moderate impacts on the environment. However, during construction, key environmental impacts such as removal of seagrass by excavation have moderate impact due to direct destruction of the habitat. Also, during sand disposal at the beach, sedimentation and changes in the hydrodynamics could have moderate impacts.

During operation phase, periodic maintenance sand pumping may require to be undertaken and if so environmental impacts of both minor and moderate are believed to happen as discussed. Thus, it has been identified that the activity overall will have a moderate impact.

Impacts relating to solid waste during operational phase have been identified to be minor as the activity can be easily managed.

The net benefit of the project has been identified to moderate positive.

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 8. MITIGATION MEASURES

The main purpose of the following section is to outline environmental management and mitigation measures that will be undertaken and followed with regards to minimizing and reducing environmental impacts from the proposed beach and swimming area development to be carried out in Himmafushi island.

8.1 JUSTIFICATION FOR PREFERRED MITIGATIONS

The environmental management and mitigation measures outlined in this section have been selected by taking into consideration a number of factors. The most important factor considered in selecting these mitigation measures is that these are not just ‘paper mitigation measures’, it has been selected based on its practicality. Other factors such as economic aspects, technical know-how as well as adequacy and appropriate timing of certain project activities played a key role in determining these environmental management and mitigation measures.

8.2 LIMITATION OF MITIGATIONS

The key limitations of the mitigation measures depend on how accurate the predicted environmental impacts are for the proposed project. This includes for instance, the severity and magnitude of environmental impacts from proposed sand pumping and disposal activities where impact have been predicted. Even with implementation of mitigation measures, the impact boundary could either extend or minimize. Also, the quantities at which the coral reef can be protected even with implementation of proposed mitigation measures are unsure. These limitations are primarily because that all the environmental impacts from the proposed project are predicted. Also, the nature of impacts even from similar project activities undertaken in a different location in the country could behave in a totally different manner.

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 8.3 CONSTRUCTION PHASE

8.3.1 Mitigation Measures for Seagrass Removal by Excavation-related Impacts

The key environmental impacts from seagrass removal by excavation include sedimentation, direct destruction of seagrass habitat and potential alteration of local hydrodynamics.

The following measures will be undertaken in order to reduce impacts associated with the activity.

These include;

 Ensure excavation of material is undertaken on calm days and during low tide to reduce spread of sedimentation  Ensure that excavated material are transported immediately to land in the project area by using the temporary bund and dump truck  Ensure that the activity is done in the shortest possible time so that some of the impacts such as sedimentation and alteration of the hydrodynamics could be short- lived.  Only excavate designated area for seagrass removal in order to reduce direct physical impacts on other areas  Regularly monitor seawater quality and currents within the lagoon to identify the extent of changes.

Key considerations; Consideration Detail Cost 0 Reduced spread of sedimentation and impacts on Expected benefits coral reefs and other seagrass areas Expertise Project management Required Manpower 1 - 2 Responsibility Contractor Equipment/Technology Proper project planning and management Timing Prior to commencement of seagrass removal

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 8.3.2 Mitigation Measures for Sand Pumping-related Impacts

The following mitigation measures will be used to reduce impacts from sedimentation and reducing spread of sedimentation within and around the surrounding environment from the proposed burrow site during sand pumping process.

 Ensure that sand pumping is undertaken in the shortest possible time, thus sedimentation will be seen only for a short period of time.  Ensure that sand pumping is undertaken at low tide and on calm days, to ensure that the sedimentation does not spread throughout the reef. It is believed that during low tides and calm days, transport of sedimentation cannot reach far distances, hence its effects on the environment can be minimized.  Use only designated boundary of the burrow site to avoid physical impacts on other areas.  Regularly monitor seawater quality and currents within the lagoon to identify the extent of changes.

8.3.3 Mitigation Measures for Sand Disposal-related Impacts

Practically, little can be done in order to prevent the impacts of sedimentation and alteration of local hydrodynamics from sand disposal onto the proposed beach development area.

The following mitigation measures will be used to reduce impacts from sedimentation and reducing spread of sedimentation within and around the surrounding environment as well as impacts on the shoreline from disposal of sand on the beach.

 Ensure that sand disposal is undertaken in the shortest possible time, thus sedimentation and impacts on shorelines will be seen only for a short period of time.

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016  Ensure that sand disposal is undertaken at low tide and on calm days, to ensure that the sedimentation does not spread throughout the reef. During low tides and calm days, transport of sedimentation cannot reach far distances, hence its effects on the environment can be minimized.  Pile sand in a certain location on land  Manually spread sand on the desired areas of the beach.  Manually transfer sand from one area to the other area on land  Regularly monitor shorelines and currents within the lagoon to identify the extent of changes

Key considerations; Consideration Detail Cost 0 Reduced spread of sedimentation and impacts on Expected benefits shorelines and local hydrodynamics Expertise Project management Required Manpower 5 - 10 Responsibility Contractor Equipment/Technology Proper project planning and management Timing During project implementation

8.3.4 Mitigation Measures for Machinery Operation in the Project Area

Machinery such as excavator, sand pump and dump truck will be used during the construction of the proposed project. Noise and dust are expected during the operations of these machinery. However, these impacts will be minimal and is not expected to disturb the island community as the operations will be undertaken in the project area.

Also, as important measures, the operations will be undertaken during the day only and regularly servicing these machinery.

Key considerations; Consideration Detail Cost 0 Expected benefits Reduced noise and dust Expertise Project management Required Manpower 1 - 2 Responsibility Contractor Equipment/Technology Proper project planning and management Timing During project implementation

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 8.3.5 Mitigation Measures for Construction-related Risks

The construction related risks associated with the project has been identified to be from accidental oil spills. In order to reduce the risk, oil will not be stored in the sand barge. It will be transported from the island to the barge when required. If there is any waste oil, it will be brought back to the island for appropriate disposal.

Key considerations; Consideration Detail Cost MVR 75,000 Expected benefits Reduce pollution Expertise Waste oil management Required Manpower 1 - 2 Responsibility Resort staff Equipment/Technology Closed containers Timing During project implementation

8.4 OPERATION PHASE

8.4.1 Mitigation Measures for Maintenance Works

It is believed that maintenance pumping will be required and if it is required, the environmental impacts will be similar as outlined in the Environmental Impacts Section including impacts from sedimentation, changes in the local hydrodynamics and potential impacts on the shorelines during sand pumping.

Thus, environmental mitigation measures outlined for construction phase for each impact will be followed during any maintenance sand pumping and beach nourishment work that happens after the project is being implemented.

Key considerations; Consideration Detail Cost 0 Expected benefits Reduced impacts during maintenance nourishment Expertise Project management Required Manpower 2 - 5 Responsibility Himmafushi Island Council Equipment/Technology Proper project planning and management Timing During project operation

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 8.4.2 Mitigation Measures for Solid Waste

During the operation phase of the project as the area will be excessively used by the island community and visitors to the island, some solid waste is believed to be generated. Impacts associated with solid waste in the area include decreased aesthetics and increased pollution in the coastal and marine environment.

In order to reduce solid waste related impacts, dust bins will be placed in the area for public use. These dust bins will be regularly emptied. The area will be kept clean at all times.

Key considerations; Consideration Detail Cost MVR 75,000 Expected benefits Reduced solid waste impacts Expertise Waste management Required Manpower 4 Responsibility Himmafushi Island Council Equipment/Technology Dustbins and proper land transport Timing During project operation

8.5 COMMITMENT

8.5.1 Rationale

The proponent of the project is committed towards implementing proposed environmental mitigation measures from the project.

Commitment letter from the Project Proponent is attached in Appendix 4.

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 9. ALTERNATIVES

The following section describes and evaluates some alternatives to the proposed project. Also, “No Development Option” has been closely looked at in terms of understanding the opportunity cost of the projects versus no development scenario.

9.1 NO DEVELOPMENT OPTION

The project is proposed by the Himmafushi Island Council for the island community in order to address a growing concern of lacking a proper swimming and recreational area on the island. During the process of project implementation, some environmental impacts are believed to occur, which has been discussed in the relevant section of this report. The degree of environmental impacts from the project is believed to be minimal and can be further reduced by implementing proposed mitigation measures.

If no development option is considered for the project, the envisaged environmental impacts will not happen, nor will a proper swimming and a recreational area will happen. Ongoing erosion on the eastern half of the proposed project area will remain and growth of seagrass within the northern lagoon will increase. This will have more long-terms negative implications to the island and the island community.

The island is rapidly developing with a number of economic development projects. The guesthouse business as well as guest shop business is thriving on the island, both of which are bringing a number of visitors to the island. The opportunity to provide a good swimming and a proper beach on the island will be lost if no development option is selected.

Due to the proposed land reclamation project that will be undertaken on the SE lagoon of the island, the only available area for development of a proper beach and a swimming area will be on the northern side, hence, no development option may not be favouring the immediate community needs.

Thus, no development option will not be an ideal alternative for the proposed project.

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 9.2 ALTERNATIVE COASTAL PROTECTION MEASURE

The proposed beach and swimming area development works to be carried out in Himmafushi island is to develop a proper beach on the northern side of the island. It mainly includes nourishment of the beach from the material obtained within the lagoon as the main coastal protection measure.

Following is an alternative measure for protecting the beach on the northern side of the island. It includes development of several groynes along the replenished beach areas, the tip of the groynes are made circular to reduce scouring. During the development of the alternative coastal protection measure, key consideration has been given to reduce sand movement during NE and SW monsoon and contain the beach within the desired area.

This alternative can be done once the eroded areas are nourished with sand according to the proposed project. This alternative is believed to confine sand in between the groynes with minor seasonal changes. These groynes can be done either with 400kg rock boulder or concrete hollow blocks or sand-cement bags.

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Figure 40: Alternative coastal protection measure with development of groynes Baseline Environment

The baseline of the existing condition of beach on the northern side of the island has been undertaken and presented at the Existing Environment Section of this report.

Impact and Mitigation Measures

Significant environmental impacts from the proposed alternative beach protection measure will be unlikely. However, during the initial stages of the proposed development, sand loss from the beaches may occur, which in turn is believed to increase turbidity conditions and decreased visibility in the lagoons areas. But these impacts are believed to be short-lived, as the beaches will gradually adapt to the groyne conditions, the impacts will also be gradually reduced.

Preferred Option

The alternative is quite preferable given that the beach is believed to be protected for a longer timeframe, hence reducing periodic beach maintenance requirements.

Although the alternative is preferred, its implementation will depend on the resources available at the Himmafushi Island Council.

9.3 ALTERNATIVE BURROW SITE

An alternative burrow site has been identified for the proposed project, which is located on the eastern half of the northern side lagoon. The area and material yield from the alternative site remain same as the proposed burrow site.

The following figure shows the alternative site.

EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016

Alternative Burrow Site

Figure 41: Proposed alternative burrow site

Baseline Environment

The baseline environmental condition of the alternative site is similar to that of the proposed burrow site with seagrass Thalassia hemprichii can the dominant composition of the area.

Impact and Mitigation Measures

The impacts and mitigation measures discussed for the proposed burrow will be similar for the alternative burrow site.

Preferred Option

The alternative site unfavorable for the proposed project as it is located far from the proposed beach development area and requires more time and resources to get required fill material for the proposed beach development.

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 10. STAKEHOLDER CONSULTATION

In order to identify key stakeholder concerns and interests with regards to the proposed project for beach and swimming area development in Himmafushi island, consultation with the relevant stakeholders have been undertaken.

10.1 KEY STAKEHOLDERS

The identified key stakeholders of the project are;

i) Himmafushi Island Council ii) Community of Himmafushi island iii) Ministry of Environment and Energy iv) Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure v) Health Protection Agency

10.2 MEANS OF STAKEHOLDER CONSULTATION

There is no formal method for undertaking stakeholder consultation with regards to addressing concerns and issues relating to the project, hence a number of methods have been used to collect information from key stakeholders identified above.

These include; telephone communication with Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure; Ministry of Environment and Energy and Health Protection Agency, formal meeting with Himmafushi Island Council and informal meeting with some members of Himmafushi island community.

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 10.3 KEY OUTCOMES

10.3.1 Himmafushi Island Council

Meeting Date: 7 April 2016

Meeting Venue: Secretariat of the Himmafushi Council, Himmafushi

Time: 10:30

In order to understand the broad view of the island community with regards to the proposed beach and swimming area development project, the Himmafushi Island Council was met in Himmafushi during the field assessments by the consultants.

Following are the key points discussed;

 The proposed project is being done as an important requirement of the island community  The island council has plans to establish a tourism zone on the northern side and the entire northern side needs to be clean and usable  The council wants the development of the proposed project to coincide with the proposed land reclamation project to be undertaken on the island, which involves reclamation of 21.6ha of land on the SE side  The council will be managing the area once the project is developed  Additional areas for beach and swimming area development on the northern side will be done soon  The entire northern side of the island will be developed as a tourism and recreational area, hence the proposed project is part of a plan that the council has developed for the area  The development prospect of the area has been shared with the island community as well as to Ministry of Tourism for the tourism development area

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016

Figure 42: Meeting with Himmafushi Island Council

10.3.2 Ministry of Environment and Energy

Communication Date: 29 June 2016

Time: 12:15

A telephone communication with the Minister of State for Environment and Energy, Mr. Abdulla Ziyad was conducted on 29 June 2016 regarding the project.

Following is a summary of the communication;

 The Ministry of Environment and Energy has no specific requirement with regards to the proposed project, except that the EIA shall be done in accordance with the EPA approved Terms of Reference (TOR).

10.3.3 Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure

Communication Date: 29 June 2016

Time: 12:30

A telephone communication with Deputy Minister of Housing and Infrastructure, Mr. Abdulla Muthalib was conducted on 29 June 2016 regarding the project.

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 Following is a summary of the communication;

 The proposed project is out of the regulatory mandate of the Ministry as it does not involve development of a harbor or any other infrastructure development. The proposed project is more relevant to Ministry of Environment and Energy and Environmental Protection Agency.  However, the proposed development has to be undertaken in accordance with the approved Land Use Plan of the island.

10.3.4 Health Protection Agency

Communication Date: 6 July 2016

Time: 13:00

A telephone communication with the Health Coordinator, Ms. Shaufa Ali was conducted on 6 July 2016 regarding the project.

Following is a summary of the communication;

 The Health Protection Agency is has a program on Environmental and Occupational Health where it aims to ensure a safe and supportive environment and promote healthy living and working environment in the country.  An important aim of the program is also to create awareness, distribute information material and guidelines to general public on chemical safety, environmental health issues general healthcare waste management and occupational health and safety.  Currently HPA is developing necessary regulations and standards with regards to implementing the program.  At present, there is no specific requirement of HPA with regards to the proposed project.

10.3.5 Himmafushi Community Member

Meeting Date: 7 April 2016

Meeting Venue: Mango Guest Shop, Himmafushi

Time: 15:30

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 With regards to understanding the public view of the proposed project, a member from the community Mr. Hussainbe (Mango Hussain) was met during the field visit to the island. Mr. Hussainbe, in addition to a prominent community member, is the owner of the Mango Guest Shop and Mango Surf Guesthouse.

Following are the key points discussed;

 The project is an important requirement for the island community as well as for the visitors to the island as there are no proper beach or a swimming area on the island at present  The island is frequented by guests from nearby resorts as well as local visitors from Male’ hence a proper area providing services to them is necessary  The extensive seagrass at the northern side lagoon needs to be removed in order to make the area usable for swimming  Almost all residents of the island will use the area if it is properly developed into a beach with a swimming area  The island council works very closely with the island community

10.4 LIST OF PARTICIPANTS

Following are the list of persons where stakeholder consultation was undertaken

OFFICE/DESIGNATION/ NAME CONTACT REPRESENTATION State Minister Abdulla Ziyad Ministry of Environment and 7781502 Energy Deputy Minister Abdulla Muththalib Ministry of Housing and 3004300 Infrastructure Heath Coordinator Shaufa Ali 3014494 Health Protection Agency President Shan Ibrahim 7775438 Himmafushi Island Council Vice President Ahmed Siraj 7775357 Himmafushi Island Council Member Ahmed Hameed 7778453 Himmafushi Island Council Member Mohamed Ismail 7858004 Himmafushi Island Council

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 Hassan Faiz Member 7914868 Himmafushi Island Council Community member, Mango Guest Hussainbe Shop and Mango Surf Guesthouse 7776604 owner Table 10: Details of Stakeholders consulted

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 11. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING

11.1 BACKGROUND

Environmental monitoring is important part of the whole EIA. It ensures that how the project has or is impacting the baseline environmental conditions that have been assessed as part of the EIA. It identifies the degrees and magnitudes of the predicted environmental impacts for the project are felt on the environment as a result of project implementation. Thus, it will help in implementing the mitigation measures that are already identified in this report or implement further measures if the impacts are identified to be bigger than anticipated.

11.1.1 Aim

The primary aim of the monitoring is to provide information that will aid impact management, and secondarily to achieve a better understanding of cause-effect relationship and to improve impact prediction and mitigation methods.

11.1.2 Objective

The following monitoring plan will be used to measure impacts that occur during the proposed project activities and determine the accuracy of impacts that are predicted and the effectiveness of mitigation measures that are relevant for the proposed project. The objectives of the monitoring plan are to measure:

• Coral reef health (EIA baseline) • Seawater quality (EIA baseline) • Shoreline, Beach Profiles (EIA baseline) • Currents and Bathymetry (EIA Baseline)

The monitoring will also ensure that these measurements are kept within the baseline limits and predicted impacts are accurate and mitigation measures taken are effective.

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 11.2 MONITORING REPORT

A detail monitoring report will be compiled based on the data collected for monitoring the parameters included in the monitoring plan. This report will be submitted to the relevant Government agencies for 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, more frequent reporting of environmental monitoring will be communicated between the project proponent, and the regulatory body.

11.2.1 Report Format

The Environment Monitoring Report will be developed in accordance with the following format; i) Introduction ii) Aims and Objectives iii) Environmental Conditions a. Coastal environment including shoreline, bathymetry, beach profiles, currents b. Marine environment including coral reef assessments, reef fish assessments and other benthos iv) Comparison of data over different time periods v) Conclusion and Recommendations

11.2.2 Frequency

It is important to ensure that monitoring of the environmental parameters mentioned above will be initiated during project implementation, which will be continued throughout the proposed duration of the project. In this regard, the following measures will be followed.

 During Implementation Phase – Every 1 month  During Operation Phase – Every 6 months for 2 years

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 11.3 MONITORING PLAN

The following Environmental Monitoring Plan will be followed during and after the implementation phase of the proposed beach nourishment works to be carried out in Himmafushi island.

Baseline Monitoring Approx Cost Indicators Reference Technique Frequency Requirements (US$) Values Monthly during Aerial construction Beach erosion Erosion/Accretion Baseline EIA photograph and and every 6 200.00 GPS survey months during operation

Monthly during pH Seawater Laboratory construction Salinity Quality Baseline EIA Analysis from and every 6 120.00 TSS MWSC months during Turbidity operation

Reef health Monthly during Reef fish abundance construction LIT and visual Coral reef and diversity Baseline EIA and every 6 400.00 assessments months during Coral bleaching operation

Monthly during Standard construction Beach profiles Coastal dynamics Baseline EIA leveling and every 6 400.00 technique months during operation Monthly during construction Changes in current Drought Currents Baseline EIA and every 6 100.00 flow pattern technique months during operation

Monthly during construction Bathymetry Varying depths Baseline EIA Echo-sounder 400.00 and every 6 months during operation TOTAL COST 1,620.00 Table 11: Environmental monitoring plan

11.3.1 Quality Control Assurance

In order to reduce uncertainty factor and ensure that the monitoring undertaken is assured with quality control measures, the following aspects will be carefully integrated;

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016  Monitor exact GPS points outlined in the baseline surveys at all times  Employ technical personnel for all monitoring needs  Increase visual presentation of the conditions and compare as an important aspect of monitoring  Repeat surveys if unsure  Ensure monitoring is undertaken as outlined in the Monitoring Plan

11.3.2 Commitment

The proponent recognizes the important of environmental monitoring and commits to undertake the monitoring programme during construction and operation periods.

Commitment letter from the Project Proponent is attached in Appendix 4.

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 12. CONCLUSIONS

Following are the summary and conclusions with regards to the proposed access channel and boat mooring area deepening project to be carried out in Himmafushi island. o There is no proper beach and a swimming area on the island at present. Extensive seagrass growth on the northern side lagoon makes the area not suitable for swimming. As an important requirement of the community, the Himmafushi Island Council proposes the project. The overall benefit of the project is to develop the area with a proper beach and a swimming are where the public as well as visitors to the island could use for recreational purpose. o The proposed project involves removal of seagrass on the northern side lagoon of the island within an area of 1,300sqm. The area will be excavated for a depth of -2.5m at MSL to yield 3,250cbm of fill material. As there is a seagrass content, it is expected that about 2,762cbm will be available to nourish a beach on the northern side of the island having a length of 220m. The width of the beach will not exceed 10m and the height will be 1.4m above MSL. o The key environmental impacts from the proposed project has been identified to be from sedimentation to the reef areas on northern side, changes in the hydrodynamics of the burrow area and nearshore lagoon on northern side of the island as well as potential changes to the shorelines of the island. The significance of most of these impacts has been identified to be minor to moderate. o Proper planning and scheduling of excavation, sand pumping and beach development activities in terms of undertaking the operations on calm weather and at low tides have been considered as important mitigation measures that will reduce spread of sediments within the lagoon and the reef areas. o During implementation phase of the proposed project, potential risks include accidental oil spills into the surrounding marine environment. In order to address the risk, oil

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 required amount of oil will be transported to the sand barge from the island and storing of oil will be avoided at all times. o Alternatives to sand burrow site and an alternative coastal protection measure has been outlined in the report. The existing environmental condition, potential impacts and mitigation measures as well as process of selecting preferred alternative has also be stated, where considerations have been given to practicality, effectiveness and cost implications. o Environmental monitoring during both implementation and after implementation has been given serious consideration in order to assess the degree and magnitude of environmental changes in the biophysical environment against the baseline conditions assessed. An environmental monitoring programme will be implemented once a month during project implementation and in every 6 months thereafter. o Although there are a number of environmental impacts from the proposed development, most of these impacts can be reduced and mitigated by use of appropriate methodology. The effectiveness of these methodologies can be documented by implementing a comprehensive monitoring programme. Also, with positive social outlook of the project and considering the overall need for the project, it is concluded that the project should go ahead as planned.

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 13. REFERENCES

Dredging and Reclamation Regulation, 2013, EPA

Environmental Resource Management, 2008, Solaire Direct Drennan Deir, Rev 2

EIA Regulation (Amended), 2015, EPA

Environmental Impact Assessment for Beach Nourishment and Maintenance Dredging of Access Channel and Harbour in Thulhaagiri Island Resort, North Male Atoll prepared by Dr. Shiham Adam and Dr. Mahmood Riyaz in 2014.

Environmental Impact Assessment for Beach Nourishment and Coastal Protection Works at Velaa Private Island, Noonu Atoll prepared by LaMer Group Pvt. Ltd. in 2015.

Environmental Impact Assessment for Proposed Coastal Protection Works in Th. Veymandoo Island, Th. Atoll prepared by Mohamed Zuhair and Ibrahim Shakir in 2015.

Hndbook on Compilation of Laws and Regulations on Protecting the Environment of Maldives, 2006, MEEW

Initial Environmental Examination for Beach Nourishment at Soneva Gili Resort and Spa, North Male Atoll prepared by Sandcays Pvt. Ltd. in 2010.

Maldives Energy Outlook, 2013, Ministry of Environment and Energy

Maldives National Strategy for Sustainable Development, 2009, Ministry of Housing and Environment

Ministry of Education, 2013, Schools Statistics

National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan, 2016 – 2025, Ministry of Environment and Energy

National Framework for Development, 2009-2013, UNDP

Natural Hazard and Vulnerability Assessment Report by UNDP in 2008, UNDP

Preliminary Results Maldives Census 2014, Bureau of Statistics, Maldives

Regulation on Environmental Damages Liability, 2011, Ministry of Housing and Environment www.meteorology.mv www.tidetime.org/asia/maldives/male.tm www.surf-forecast.com

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 14. APPENDICES

APPENDIX 1: Approved Terms of Reference (TOR)

APPENDIX 2: Approved Beach and Swimming Area Development Concept

APPENDIX 3: Water Quality Analysis Report

APPENDIX 4: Commitment Letter from Proponent

APPENDIX 5: Communication to Male’ Atoll Council

APPENDIX 6: CVs of Consultants

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 APPENDIX 1:

Approved Terms of Reference (TOR)

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 APPENDIX 2:

Approved Beach and Swimming Area Development Concept

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APPENDIX 3:

Water Quality Analysis Report

EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 APPENDIX 4:

Commitment Letter from Project Proponent

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APPENDIX 5:

Communication with Male’ Atoll Council

APPENDIX 6:

CVs of Consultants

EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 Mr. Mohamed Zuhair

Personal Details

Full Name: Mohamed Zuhair

ID Card: A-045870

Date of Birth: 18 December 1971

Address (Home): H. Eforniumge (South), 4th Floor, Moonlight Hingun/Lonuziyaarai Hingun, Male’ 20023, Rep of Maldives Mobile: (960) 777 6800 EMail: [email protected]

Marital Status: Married with 3 children

Languages: English (Professional) Dhivehi (Native)

Education and Training

 Master of Applied Science (Protected Area Management), 2003 James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland 4811 Australia

 Certificate in Integrated Management of Coastal and Marine Protected Areas, 1998 South Asia Cooperative Environment Program (SACEP) in collaboration with Great Barrier Reef Marine Mark Authority, Male’ Maldives

 Certificate in Coral Reef Survey Methods, 1998 IOCUNESCO/UNEP/IUCN, Global Coral Reef Monitoring Network (GCRMN) in collaboration with Ministry of Fisheries and Agriculture, Male’, Maldives

 B.Sc (Hons) Combined Studies (Major: Environmental Biology), 1994 Bath College of Higher Education, Newton Park, Bath BA2 9BN United Kingdom

 Certificate in Coral Reef Ecology, Theory and Practice, 1990 International Center for Ocean Development and Ministry of Fisheries and Agriculture, Male’, Maldives

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 Employment

 Freelance Environmental Consultant (2011 - Present)

Provide technical consultancy on environment-related work including development of environmental management plans, preparation of Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA) and environmental monitoring plans, field assessment and environmental analysis of potential development sites, technical input for proposed development projects, as well as assist in project development, etc

Recent Clients: Hotel and Resorts Construction, Leisure Horizons, Amin Construction, Malahini Holdings, Cocoon Investments, Akirifushi Investments, Hanimaadhoo City Hotel Investments, Mr. Ali Zahir, Mr. Hassan Moosa, Mr. Ali Moosa, ABN, CPM Consultants, Cowrie Investments, Oliva Efficient, Island Channels, Sandcays, Beachrock, SAS e Senok JV, Group X, Coastline Investments, Sanken Overseas

 Director General (2009 – 2011) Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), 4th Floor, Jamaaluddin Complex, Nikagas Magu, Male’, Rep. of Maldives

Duties: Overall in charge of the Environmental Protection Agency directly reports to Minister and Deputy Minister. Direct, supervise and technical input to the work of the Sections including Environmental Impact Assessment, Biodiversity Conservation, Coastal Zone Management, Waste Management, Water and Sanitation, Physical Oceanography, Resource Valuation and support to implementation of Environmental Protection Act and subsequent Regulations and develop national Environmental Standards, etc.

Recent Consultancies Undertaken

 Project Proposal Establishment of a Seaweed Mariculture Farm on Funagaadhoo Island, Laamu Atoll, Maldives, 2011

 Project Proposal Community Development in Thaa Atoll and Establishing a Tourist Resort on Thaa. Fushifaru Island, Maldives, 2011

 Environmental Impact Assessment Proposed Harbour Development in Noonu Magoodhoo Island, Maldives, 2011

 Project Proposal Establishment of a Jetty on the Eastern Side of Noonu Henbadhoo Island, Maldives, 2011  Marine Environmental Assessment for the Environmental Impact Assessment Coastal Developments at Thulhaagiri Island Resort and Spa, Maldives, 2011

 Environmental Impact Assessment Proposed Water Supply and Sewerage System in Haa Dhaalu Vaikaradhoo, Maldives, 2012

 Environmental Impact Assessment Proposed Tourist Resort Development on Banana Island, Qatar, 2012

 Environmental Impact Assessment Proposed Airstrip Development on Maavarulla Island, G.Dh. Atoll, Maldives, 2012

 Environmental Impact Assessment Proposed Tourist Resort Development on Kodhipparu Island, K. Atoll, Maldives, 2014

 Environmental Impact Assessment Proposed City Hotel Development on Hanimaadhoo, H. Dh Atoll, Maldives, 2014

 Environmental Impact Assessment Page 129

EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 Proposed Proposed Tourist Resort Development on Maamunagau Island, Raa Atoll, Maldives, 2014

 Environmental Impact Assessment Proposed Tourist Resort Development on Akirifushi Island, K. Atoll, Maldives. 2014

 Environmental Impact Assessment Proposed Tourist Resort Development on Kuda Bandos, K. Atoll, Maldives, 2014

 Environmental Impact Assessment Proposed Tourist Resort Development on Kudafushi Island, Raa Atoll, Maldives, 2014

 Project Proposal Establishment of Marine Finfish Aquaculture Farm on Fonagaadhoo Island, Laamu Atoll, Maldives, 2014

 Project Concept Development of Aquaculture, Aquarium Fish Culture, Hydroponics, and Organic Farming in Huruvalhi Island, Raa Atoll, Maldives, 2014

 Project Proposal Development of Agriculture, Hydroponics, Organic Farming, and Fish Drying in Maarehaa Island, GA Atoll, Maldives, 2014

 Environmental Impact Assessment Proposed Tourist Resort Development on Ookolhu Finolhu Island, Lhaviyani Atoll, Maldives, 2015

 Environmental Impact Assessment Proposed Harbour Development in Himandhoo Island, AA Atoll, Maldives, 2015

 Environmental Impact Assessment Proposed Tourist Resort Development in Kottafaru Island, Raa Atoll, Maldives, 2015

 Environmental Impact Assessment Proposed Harbour Rehabilitation in Thoddoo Island, AA Atoll, Maldives, 2015

 Environmental Impact Assessment Proposed Tourist Resort Development in Aarah Island, Raa Atoll, Maldives, 2015

 Environmental Impact Assessment Proposed Coastal Protection Measures in Plam Beach Resort and Spa, Lh. Atoll, Maldives, 2015

 Hazard Analysis and Risk Assessment Sunken Excavator near Havodda Island, GDh. Atoll, Maldives, 2015

 Environmental Impact Assessment Coastal Modifications at LUX Maldives, South Ari Atoll, Maldives, 2015

 Environment Impact Assessment Proposed Agriculture Product Development in Hulhudhoo Island, Baa Atoll, Maldives, 2015

 Environment Impact Assessment Proposed Coastal Protection Works in Ukulhas Island, AA Atoll, Maldives, 2015

 Environment Impact Assessment Proposed Mariculture, Hydroponics, Aquaponics and Boatyard Development in Vihamaafaru, AA Atoll, Maldives, 2015

 Environment Impact Assessment Proposed Coastal Protection Works in Maaenboodhoo, Dhaalu Atoll, Maldives, 2015 Page 130

EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016

 Situation Analysis Report EIA for Proposed Coastal Modification and Partial Renovation Project, LUX South Ari, ADh. Atoll, Maldives, 2015

 Technical Study of Erosion and Coastal Protection Measures Northern side of Dharavandhoo Island, B. Dharavandhoo, Malrives, 2015

 First Addendum: EIA for Coastal Protection Works in Maaenboodhoo, Dhaalu Atoll, Maldives, 2015

 Environment Impact Assessment Proposed Tourist Resort Development in R. Filaidhoo Island, Raa Atoll, Maldives, 2015

 Environment Impact Assessment Proposed Agriculture, Water Sports and Training Facility Development in Faadhoo Island, Maldives, 2016

 Environment Impact Assessment Proposed Tourist Resort Development in Vashugiri Island, Vaavu Atoll, Maldives, 2016

Professional Certifications

 Registered EIA Consultant (2015) Registration (EIA01/15) at Environmental Protection Agency 3rd Floor, Green Building Male’ Republic of Maldives

 PADI Research Diver (1998-Present) Sea Explorers Dive School, 2nd Floor, Ma. Thuniveli, Male' 2001 Republic of Maldives

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 Ibrahim Shakir (Shark)

Date of Birth: 18 July 1967

Contact Address: Ma Sharky Shark

Koarukendi Magu

Male’ 20-30

Maldives

E-mail: [email protected]

Nationality: Maldivian

Contact no: +9607759695

Qualifications

Associate Diploma of Land information Management Systems

(Surveying) South Australian Institute of vocational Education (1994), Australia

Certificate from the Group Training Course in Hydrographic Survey (international accredited Category B Course) –

Conducted by the Japan International Cooperation Agency under the International Cooperation Programme of the Government of Japan, Tokyo, Japan (1996)

Certificate of participation in Environment Management at Singapore Environmental Management and Engineering Services Pte Ltd (January 2000)

Relevant Experience

Surveying projects

Current______

AA.Fesdhoo 2012 PSM survey to surveying and land surveying standard to tourist properties of Maldives ref to technical brief 2011.

Completed ______

K.Fulmoon 2012 PSM survey to surveying and land surveying standard to tourist properties of Maldives ref to technical brief 2011.

K.Velassaru 2012 PSM survey to surveying and land surveying standard to tourist properties of Maldives ref to technical brief 2011.

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 K.Kurumba 2012 PSM survey to surveying and land surveying standard to tourist properties of Maldives ref to technical brief 2011.

K.Baros 2012 PSM survey to surveying and land surveying standard to tourist properties of Maldives ref to technical brief 2011.

M.Hakuraa Huraa 2012 PSM survey to surveying and land surveying standard to tourist properties of Maldives ref to technical brief 2011.

K.Dhonveli 2012 PSM survey to surveying and land surveying standard to tourist properties of Maldives ref to technical brief 2011.

AA.Ehlidhoo 2012 PSM survey to surveying and land surveying standard to tourist properties of Maldives ref to technical brief 2011.

N.fushivellavaru 2012 Control and as built survey, after establishing PSM to surveying and land surveying standard to tourist properties of Maldives ref to technical brief 2011.

Gdh.Dhigulaabadhoo Topographic survey and Hydrograhic Survey.

K.Kaashidhoo set-out survey for tourist hotel

B.Vakkaru Topographic survey and Hydrograhic Survey including set-out survey for Back of the house

Laguna Maldives (Male’ Atoll) managed by Universal Enterprises

Topographic Survey, Hydrographic Survey, Tree Survey, Set out Survey & Environment impact assessment study.

Konnota Island (Gaafu Dhaal atoll) managed by PCH

Topographic Survey, Hydrographic Survey, Tree Survey and Setout Survey.

Maavelavaru Island (Noonu atoll) managed by Athama Marine

Topographic Survey, Hydrographic Survey and Setout Survey.

Halaveli Tourist Resort (Ari Atoll) / Waterfront Pvt Ltd.

Topographic Survey, Hydrographic Survey, Tree Survey and Setout Survey.

HANDHUFUSHI (Herathere) ADDU Atoll / managed by Yatch tours

Hydrographic Survey of the proposed water villa site

Madoogali Island (Ari atoll)

Topographic survey includes buildings, structures and water villas.

Ariyadhoo Island (North Male’ atoll) / managed by VB

Topographic survey and Hydrographic survey, includes buildings, structures and water villas.

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 Full Moon Maldives / Universal Enterprises

Topographic survey and Hydrographic survey, includes set-out survey for all buildings, structures and water villas.

Baros island Resort / Universal Enterprises

Topographic survey and Hydrographic survey, includes set-out survey for all buildings, structures and water villas.

Dhigufinolhu island Resort / Universal Enterprises

Topographic survey and Hydrographic survey, includes set-out survey for all buildings, structures and water villas.

Palm Beach Resort, Lhaviyani Atoll, Maldives

Provided all consultancy work including equipment layout design and procurement analysis for all F&B areas and laundry

Ari Beach Resort, Ari Atoll, Maldives

Topographic survey and Hydrographic survey, includes set-out survey for all buildings, structures and water villas.

Coco Palm Resort, / Sunland Travels, Baa Atoll, Maldives

Provided all consultancy work including equipment layout design and procurement analysis for all F&B areas, Environment design, Water & Waste Management, Project Management and Laundry Design and Layout in addition, the project included the supervision of the installation of the designed system, surveying and instructing the contractors on construction methodology.

Veligandu Huraa, Maafushivaru (Twin island)

Tree survey, including identification of species and their respective locations through out the island, set-out survey for all structures.

Fesdu Fun island / Universal Enterprises

Reef survey, identification of coral species and condition of the reef with regard to coral bleaching, Tree survey including detailed layout of vegetation line and shoreline, set-out survey.

NakatchaaFushi / Huvafenfushi

Topographic survey, Hydrographic Survey, Tree survey, set-out survey for water bungalows and land villas.

Hilton on Rangali / Crown company

Topographic Survey, Hydrographic survey and set-out survey for water villas, land bungalows, current and wave action surveys, tide measurements for the under water restaurant.

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 Reethi Rah Resort / One & Only

Environment impact assessment study.

Moofushi island Resort

Topographic survey, including vegetation, shore line, High tide and Low tide line and all structures.

Villivaru & Biyadhoo / Ministry of Tourism

Environment impact assessment study for the bidding project includes Plant identification survey, soil contamination survey, Ground water monitoring, coral diversity and abundance survey, coastal erosion survey, sediment movement and setting studies, beach profiles and land topography survey.

Mushimas Migilli / Dhoani Migilli

Environment impact assessment study including Harbour development.

Keekimini / Fisheries Project

Environment impact assessment study including, Harbour development and set- out survey for infrastructure development.

Hudhufushi island Resort / Abdul Rauf

Topographic survey and Hydrograhic Survey including set-out survey for all buildings and villas.

Ministry of Health, Malé Maldives

Development of a master plan for the provision of safe, adequate and affordable freshwater for Malé (Maldives) including the designing of processes to harness and distribute water on a commercial basis. Includes study on sustainability of utilizing the freshwater aquifer of Malé as well as utilizing airport runway and a loating collector (shallow lagoon) for rainwater catchments vis-à-vis desalination of seawater.

Hinnavaru island, Lhaviyani Atoll, Maldives

Provision of a wastewater collection and disposal systems for a densely populated island.. Design to overcome the problems associated with a high water table and flat low lying island with limitations for proper gradients.

Maadhoo island, Maldives

Environmental impact study on Harbour Development and Recreational Boating Activity for the Management Kandooma island Resort, Republic of Maldives.

Fuah Mulaku

Hydrographic study and Environment impact study on harbour development and commercial boating activity.

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 Mirihi island Resort

Hydrographic Study, Land survey / and Environmental impact assessment on harbour Development.

Hebadhoo island Resort

Hydrographic Study and Environmental impact assessment on harbour Development.

Embudhoo Finolhu island Resort / Taj

Hydrographic Study and Environmental impact assessment on harbour Development.

Shaviyani Atoll (all inhabited islands)

Hydrographic Study and Environmental impact assessment on Harbour Development.

Hulhumeedu island

Hydrographic Study and Environmental impact assessment on Harbour Development.

Kulhuduffushi island Harbour

Hydrographic Study and Environmental impact assessment on Harbour Development.

Vangaaru(shaviyani atoll)

Dh.Eboodhoo/Olhuveli

Topographic survey and Hydrograhic Survey including set-out survey for all buildings and villas.

Gdh.Gazeera

Topographic survey for resort construction

ADh.Athurugaa

Topographic survey and Hydrograhic Survey

AA.Thundufushi

Topographic survey and Hydrograhic Survey

Ha.Uligamu

Topographic survey and Hydrograhic Survey including set-out survey for buildings.

STO Building

Set-out survey in Male’,Maldives.

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EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016 Velaanaage office Building

Set-out survey in Male’,Maldives.

K.Giraavaru

Topographic survey for Resort Construction

Ga.Handahaa

Topographic survey and Hydrograhic Survey including set-out survey for all buildings, Beach Villa and Water Villa.

N.Huivani

Topographic survey and Hydrograhic Survey.

N.Minaavaru

Topographic survey and Hydrograhic Survey.

Gdh.Baulhagilaa

Topographic survey and Hydrograhic Survey.

Rendheli Island (Noonu atoll) managed by INT Management Pvt Ltd.

Setout Survey of Rendheli Island, Noonu Atoll.

Finolhas Island (Baa atoll) managed by Coastline Maldives

Topographic & Hydrographic Survey of Finolhas Island, Baa Atoll.

Kuramathi Maldives (Ari Atoll) managed by Universal Resorts, Maldives.

Topographic Survey (update the site plan) of Kuramathi Maldives, Ari Atoll.

EIA Projects Participated

Environmental Impact Assessment for Tourist Resort Development in Kudafushi Island, Raa Atoll, Maldives, Mr. Ali Zahir

Environmental Impact Assessment for Tourist Resort Development in Kottafaru island, Raa Atoll, Maldives, ABN Pvt Ltd

Environmental Impact Assessment for Tourist Resort Development in Ookolhu Finolhu Island, Lhaviyani Atoll, Maldives, Cocoon Investments, Pvt. Ltd.

Environmental Impact Assessment for Resort Development in K. Kuda Bandos, North Male Atoll, Maldives, Malahini Holdings Pvt. Ltd.

Environmental Impact Assessment for Resort Development in K.Akirifushi, North Male Atoll, Maldives, Akirifushi Investment Pvt. Ltd. Page 137

EIA – Proposed Beach and Swimming Area Development Himmafushi, Male’ Atoll June 2016

Environmental Impact Assessment for Development of a CityHotel Hanimaadhoo, H.Dh. Atoll, Maldives, Island Expert Pvt. Ltd.

Environmental Impact Assessment for Resort Development in K. Kodhipparu, North Male Atoll, Maldives, Kodhipparu Investment Pvt.Ltd.

Environmental Impact Assessment for Proposed Tourist Resort Development on Raa. Maamanagau Island, Maldives, Bir Hotel Management Pvt. Ltd.

Employment

Managing Director of Beach Rock Investment Pvt Ltd. Ma Sharky Shark, Male’, Maldives.

Managing Director of Beach Marine Pvt Ltd. Ma Sharky Shark, Male’ , Maldives.

Managing Partner of Sharkventures LLP, Ma Sharky Shark, Male’, Maldivesharkventures LLP, Ma Sharky Shark, Male’, Maldives

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