ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT
FOR THE PROPOSED
COCONUT PALM RELOCATION PROJECT IN MAALHOS, BAA ATOLL
January 2016
Prepared for
Dhigufaru Investments Private Limited,
Maldives
Consultant
CDE Consulting, Maldives
ްނުޢޫރްޝަމ ެގުމުއިދްނެގ ްސަގްއުރ ްނުހޮޅާމ .ބ
ްޓޯޕިރ ާރުކްނާޔަބ ުރަވްނިމ ެނާރުކުރަސައ ްށަޓްއެވާމިތ
ީރައުނެޖ2016
:ުރާޔިދެއ ެގުޢޫރްޝަމ
ްޑެޓިމިލ ްޑެޓިމިލ ްޓެވިއަރްޕ ްސްޓްނަމްޓްސެވްނިއ ުރަފުގިދ
:ްޓްނަޓްލަސްނޮކ ޭއ.ިއައ.ީއ ެގުޢޫރްޝަމ
ްޑެޓިމިލ ްޓެވިއަރްޕ ީއ.ީޑ.ީސ
EIA for the Proposed Coconut Palm Relocation Project in Maalhos Island, Baa Atoll
Table of Contents Table of Contents ...... i List of Figures ...... vi List of Tables ...... vii List of Abbreviations ...... ix Acknowledgements ...... x Lead Consultant’s Declaration ...... xi Proponent’s Declaration...... xii Executive Summary ...... xiii 1 INTRODUCTION ...... 1 1.1 Purpose of the EIA ...... 1
1.2 Project Proponent ...... 1
1.3 Project Background and Rationale ...... 1
1.4 Project Scope ...... 2
1.5 Aim and Objectives ...... 2
1.6 Consultants, Contractors and Government Institutions...... 3
1.7 Project Financing...... 3
1.8 Scope and Terms of Reference of EIA ...... 3
1.9 Summary of Assessment Methodology...... 4
1.9.1 The Study Area...... 4 1.9.2 Field Observations ...... 5 1.9.3 Desk Study Review ...... 7 1.9.4 Public and Key Stakeholder Consultation ...... 8 1.9.5 Data Analysis ...... 8 1.9.6 Report Format ...... 8 1.10 Study Team Members ...... 8
2 PROJECT DESCRIPTION ...... 9 2.1 Project Location ...... 9
2.2 Project Outline and Project Site Plan ...... 9
2.3 Detailed Project Outline and Work Methodology...... 16
2.3.1 Site Mobilisation and setup ...... 16 2.3.2 Land clearance ...... 16 2.3.3 Backfilling holes ...... 17 2.3.4 Dredging ...... 18
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2.3.5 Transportation ...... 19 2.3.6 Replanting of trees in Dhigufaruvinagandu ...... 19 2.3.7 Environmental Management ...... 19 2.4 Project Schedule and Life Span ...... 20
2.5 Labour Requirements and Availability ...... 21
2.6 Summary of Project Inputs and Outputs ...... 21
2.7 Demobilization ...... 22
3 POLICY AND LEGAL FRAMEWORK ...... 23 3.1 Introduction ...... 23
3.2 Relevant Legislation ...... 23
3.2.1 Environment Protection and Preservation Act (Act no. 4/93)...... 23 3.2.2 Agricultural Legislation ...... 24 3.3 Relevant Regulations and Guidelines ...... 25
3.3.1 Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations 2012 ...... 25 3.3.2 Regulation on Sand and Coral Mining ...... 25 3.3.3 Regulation on Cutting Down, Uprooting, Digging Out and Export of Trees and Palms from One Island to Another ...... 26 3.3.4 Regulation on Dredging and Land Reclamation ...... 26 3.4 Guiding Policies and Documents ...... 27
3.4.1 Third National Environmental Action Plan (NEAP III) ...... 27 3.4.2 National Strategy for Sustainable Development ...... 29 3.4.3 Carbon Neutral Policy...... 29 3.4.4 Waste Management Policy ...... 29 3.5 Environmental Permits required for the Project ...... 29
3.5.1 EIA Decision Note ...... 29 3.6 Relevant International Conventions, Treaties and Protocols ...... 30
3.6.1 United Nations Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Kyoto Protocol ...... 30 3.6.2 United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity (UNCBD) ...... 30 3.6.3 United Nations Conference on Desertification (UNCCD) ...... 30 3.6.4 Cartagena Protocol on Bio-safety ...... 31 3.6.5 International Plant Protection Convention ...... 31 3.6.6 Vienna Convention and Montreal Protocol ...... 31 3.6.7 Male Declaration on Control and Prevention of Air Pollution and its Likely Transboundary Effects for South Asia ...... 31
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3.7 Responsible Ministries and Institutions in the Maldives ...... 32
3.7.1 Ministry of Environment & Energy ...... 32 3.7.2 Baa Atoll Council ...... 32 3.7.3 Island Council...... 32 4 EXISTING ENVIRONMENT ...... 33 4.1 Physical Environment ...... 33
4.1.1 Meteorology ...... 33 4.1.2 Hydrology ...... 39 4.1.3 Beach ...... 45 4.1.4 Marine water quality assessment ...... 45 4.1.5 Ground water ...... 46 4.1.6 Bathymetry ...... 51 4.2 Biological Environment ...... 51
4.2.1 Terrestrial Ecology ...... 51 4.2.2 Marine Environment ...... 58 4.2.3 Marine protected areas and sensitive sites ...... 64 4.2.4 Breeding or nursery grounds for protected or endangered species ...... 64 4.3 Natural Hazard Assessment for the Site ...... 64
4.4 Island Social Socio-Economic Setting ...... 66
4.4.1 Baa Atoll socio-economic setup ...... 66 5 IMPACTS PREDICTION ...... 70 5.1 Introduction ...... 70
5.2 Overall Positive Impacts ...... 70
5.3 Impact Identification ...... 70
5.3.1 Waste resulting in Air, Land and Marine Pollution ...... 74 5.3.2 Terrestrial Flora and Fauna ...... 74 5.3.3 Health and Safety...... 76 5.3.4 Impacts from lagoon dredging ...... 76 6 SIGNIFICANT IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES ...... 77 6.1 Natural Environment ...... 77
6.1.1 Contamination of Groundwater...... 77 6.1.2 Pollution due to Waste ...... 77 6.1.3 Marine Water Contamination ...... 78 6.1.4 Loss of lagoon bottom organisms and habitats ...... 79 6.1.5 Noise, Vibrations and Air Pollution ...... 80
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6.1.6 Changes to Hydrodynamics ...... 80 7 ALTERNATIVES ...... 81 7.1 “No-project” Alternative ...... 81
7.2 Alternative tree felling techniques ...... 82
7.3 Alternative Site ...... 82
7.4 Alternative Borrow area ...... 83
7.5 Alternative Sediment Control Measures ...... 83
8 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN ...... 84 8.1 Environmental management system...... 84
8.2 Management structure and responsibilities ...... 85
8.2.1 Project proponent ...... 85 8.2.2 Environmental Consultant ...... 86 8.2.3 Environmental Protection Agency ...... 86 8.3 Reporting requirements ...... 86
9 ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING PLAN ...... 90 9.1 Introduction ...... 90
9.2 Objectives of the Monitoring Plan ...... 90
9.3 Aspects of the Monitoring Plan ...... 91
9.4 Monitoring Report ...... 92
9.5 Commitment for Monitoring ...... 92
9.6 Cost of monitoring ...... 92
10 STAKEHOLDER CONSULTATIONS ...... 93 10.1 Consultation with the Island Council ...... 93
10.2 Consultation with the Atoll Council...... 94
10.3 Public Consultation ...... 95
10.4 Door-to-door public consultation ...... 97
11 Potential Data Gaps and Assessment Limitations ...... 99 11.1 Gaps in Information ...... 99
11.2 Uncertainties in Impact Prediction ...... 99
12 Conclusions ...... 100 REFERENCES ...... 101 APPENDIX A – Terms of Reference ...... 102
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APPENDIX B – Site Plan ...... 103
APPENDIX C– Commitment Letter ...... 104
APPENDIX D– Approvals ...... 105
APPENDIX E – Survey Locations...... 106
APPENDIX F–Beach Profiles ...... 107
APPENDIX G –Water Quality Results ...... 108
APPENDIX H– Bathychart ...... 109
APPENDIX I– CV’s of Consultants ...... 110
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List of Figures
Figure 1.1: Study Area boundary ...... 5 Figure 2.1: Location map of Maalhos ...... 10 Figure 2.2: Locality map and environmentally sensitive zones in the vicinity ...... 11 Figure 2.3: Aerial image of Maalhos Island ...... 12 Figure 2.4: Project Site Plan (reduced version) ...... 13 Figure 2.5: Construction Site plan ...... 14 Figure 2.6: Project foot print and Potential Affected Areas ...... 15 Figure 4.1: Monthly Frequencies of Wind Direction in Central Maldives based on National Meteorological Center 10 year Data (adapted from Naseer, 2003)...... 35 Figure 4.2: 24 Year Wind Frequency Recorded at National Meteorological Center...... 36 Figure 4.3: Mean Daily Wind Speed and Direction Recorded at National Meteorological Centre (1978 – 2004) ...... 36 Figure 4.4: Mean Monthly Rainfall in Hulhule’ (1975-2004) ...... 37 Figure 4.5: Maximum daily rainfall by year in Hulhule’ (1975-2005) - (Source: Hay, 2006) ..... 38 Figure 4.6: Maximum Temperature by year in Hulhule’- 1975-2005 (Source: Hay, 2006) ...... 39 Figure 4.7: Estimated wave regime around Maalhos Island ...... 42 Figure 4.8: Observed current flow patterns on the reef – from high to low tide ...... 43 Figure 4.9: Predicted tides for August 2012, based on data from Department of Meteorology, Maldives ...... 44 Figure 4.10: Coastal modofications in Maalhos ...... 47 Figure 4.11: Geocorrected Aerial map of Maalhos ...... 48 Figure 4.12: Comparison of medium-term shoreline changes in Maalhos between 1969 and 2015 ...... 49 Figure 4.13: Comparison of short-term shoreline changes in Maalhos ...... 50 Figure 4.14: The canopy is dominated by Coconut palms (Cocos nucifera) ...... 52 Figure 4.15: The site viewed from the North-west ...... 52 Figure 4.16: Locals use the area frequently to collect nuts...... 53 Figure 4.17: Select images showing variety of coral species along transect 1 ...... 58 Figure 4.18: Benthic substrate composition along transect 1 ...... 59 Figure 4.19 Select images showing benthic substrate cover along transect 2 ...... 60 Figure 4.20: Benthic substrate composition and coral genera composition along transect 2 ...... 61 Figure 4.21: The bottom is made up of mainly made up of rock and rubble...... 62 Figure 4.22: Benthic substrate is mainly made up of coral rubble and rock ...... 63 Figure 4.23: Dominant benthic substrate at this site is rock and rubble ...... 63 Figure 8.1: Environmental Management Strategy flow diagram...... 85 Figure 8.2: Environmental Management Plan for construction and operation phase ...... 87
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Figure 10.1: Public consultation at Maalhos,14th November 2015...... 97
List of Tables
Table 1-1: Fish abundance categories ...... 7 Table 2.1: Estimated vegetation to be removed ...... 17 Table 2.2: Project Schedule ...... 20 Table 2.2: List of labour requirements ...... 21 Table 2.3: Main inputs during construction stage ...... 21 Table 2.4: Main outputs during construction stage ...... 22 Table 3.1: Trees protected from logging by Ministry of Fisheries and Agriculture ...... 24 Table 4.1: Key Meteorological Information of the Maldives ...... 33 Table 4.2: Summary of General Wind Conditions from the National Meteorological Center ..... 35 Table 4.3: Tidal Variations at Male’ International Airport (Source: MEC, 2004) ...... 38 Table 4.4: Tidal Variations at Male’ International Airport (Source: MEC, 2004) ...... 44 Table 4.5: Marine water quality assessment results from MWSC laboratory ...... 46 Table 4.6: Results for water quality testing for ground water...... 46 Table 4.7: Flora inventory of proposed project site ...... 55 Table 4.8: Fauna Inventory for the proposed project site at Baa Maalhos ...... 56 Table 4.9: Inventory of Pest and Diseases observed at the proposed project site in Baa Maalhos ...... 57 Table 4.10: Fish census data for summary for transect 1 ...... 59 Table 4.11: Fish census data summary for transect 2 ...... 61 Table 4.12 Predicted disaster risks in Maalhos ...... 65 Table 4.13 Population of Baa Atoll (MPDN 2006) ...... 67 Table 4.14: Employment by Economic Activities in Baa Atoll (source: MPND, 2006)...... 69 Table 5.1: Evaluation of key impacts from the implementation of the project ...... 72 Table 6.1 Mitigation measures to mitigate ground water contamination ...... 77 Table 6.2: Mitigation measures for pollution due to waste ...... 78 Table 6.3: Mitigation measures for marine water contamination ...... 79 Table 6.4: Mitigation measures for loss of lagoon bottom organisms ...... 79 Table 7.1: Summary of “No Project” Alternative ...... 81 Table 7.2: Pros and cons of traditional tree felling method ...... 82 Table 7.3: Pros and cons of using heavy equipment for tree felling ...... 82 Table 7.4: Summary of sediment control measures ...... 83 ...... 87
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Table 8.1: Environmental Management Plan for construction and operation phase ...... 88 Table 9.1: Monitoring plan for natural environment ...... 91 Table 10.1: List of participants for the Island Council Meeting ...... 94 Table 10.2: List of participants for the Atoll Council Meeting ...... 95 Table 10.3: List of participants for the public consultation meeting ...... 96 Table 10.4: List of members interviewed in the door-to-door sessions ...... 98
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List of Abbreviations
COADS Comprehensive Ocean-Atmosphere Data Set DO Dissolved Oxygen EIA Envrionmental Impact Assessment GPS Global Positioning System IPCC Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change IPPC International Plant Protection Convention IUCN International Union for Conservation of Nature MEE Ministry of Environment and Energy MHI Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure MoTAC Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture MoTCA Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation MSL Mean Sea Level MWSC Maldives Water and Sewerage Company NAPA National Adaptation Programme of Action NE North East NEAP II National Environmental Action Plan II NW North West SAP Strategic Action Plan SE South East SW South West TDS Total Suspended Solids ToR Term of Reference UNFCCC United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and the Kyoto Protocol
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Acknowledgements
The lead author of this report is Dr. Ahmed Shaig.
Additional assessments were undertaken by the following team members.
Mr. Ali Nishaman (Terrestrial Environment Assessment)
Field assistance was provided by the following members
Mr. Mohamed Faizan (Marine surveying)
Mr. Ali Moosa Didi (Surveying and cartography)
Mr Ahmed Haiman Rasheed (Marine Surveying)
Mr. Mohamed Ali (Marine surveying)
Mr. Ahmed Nashwan Abdul Matheen (GIS & Mapping)
Ms. Shahdha (Social consultations)
The curriculum vitae’s of the EIA consultants are attached in Appendix I of this report.
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Lead Consultant’s Declaration
I certify that statements made in this Environment Impact Assessment are true, complete and correct to the best of my knowledge and available information.
Dr. Ahmed Shaig
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Proponent’s Declaration
Intentionally Left Blank
Please refer to Appendix C
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Executive Summary
This Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is an evaluation of the potential environmental, socio-economic and natural impacts of the proposed coconut palm relocation from Maalhos to Dhigufaru Resort of Baa Atoll. Dhigufaru is a resort under construction and is scheduled to open this year. The proponent of this project is Dhigufaru Investments Pvt Ltd, and they are in the final stages of landscaping.
Maalhos Island contacted the proponent to assist in clearing the land for a futsal pitch. Given that the Dhigufaru Island is looking to rejuvenate its vegetation, the proponent has contracted construction companies specializing in tree transplantation to clear the requested land and supply coconut palms required for Dhigufaru Island landscaping. The proponent has sought permission from the island council to relocate 250 palm trees to Dhigufaru Island. The proponent considered the project given the close proximity of Maalhos and the opportunity to provide service to the community. The project is aimed for the clearance of approximately 16,500 ft2 of land for the development of a futsal pitch. Major components of the project include, site preparation and mobilization, vegetation clearance, transportation to Dhigufaru, replanting, dredging the North-western side lagoon to obtain backfilling sand and levelling the site after backfilling.
The project is scheduled to be completed within five to six weeks of initiation while all components at Maalhos is to be completed within four weeks.
The following Laws and Regulations of Maldives and International Conventions will be strictly adhered during the implementation of the project.
The key laws and regulations of the Maldives to which the proposal is applicable are:
− Environmental Protection Act, − Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations 2012, − Regulation on Cutting Down, Uprooting, Digging Out and Export of Trees and Palms from One Island to Another − Dredging and Reclamation regulation − Regulation on preservation of old trees − Other relevant international and national conventions ‘No project’ option is evaluated for advantages and disadvantages. Alternative project site (island) is not considered as this cannot be changed. In addition, an alternative tree felling method has been assessed.
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The potential significant impacts from the project on the natural environment are:
− Groundwater and marine water contamination due to chemical (vehicle fluids) leak and from dredging process. − Pollution due to waste including green waste − Marine water pollution during transportation of materials and removal of waste − Impact on marine life due to dredging activities − Changes to island coastal environment due to creation of sediment sink Potential positive socioeconomic impacts are:
− Paves way for further development with new recreational facilities − Dhigufaru Island could be completed and open for business at earliest creating job opportunities for locals − Guest satisfaction improved Monitoring program is based on the information requirements of the project. The key areas highlighted in the program are:
− Groundwater quality and Marine water quality for indication of contamination by chemicals and/or dredging − Management of waste in particular hazardous waste and inappropriate disposal − Coastal changes and depth of the dredge area − Maintaining logs to monitor replanting quantities and targets are met. The proponent is committed to undertake the monitoring programme. The project poses some negative environmental impacts. However with proper caution and implementation of the given mitigation measures the project could offset the negative impacts and could be implemented smoothly.
Overall, the project aims to reuse vegetation to rejuvenate the vegetation system in Dhigufaruvinagandu, which would be given utmost care due to their value for the resort island. These are trees that may otherwise be discarded.
In conclusion, project mainly has beneficial impacts to both the locals of Baa Maalhos and the management of Dhigufaru Resort.
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ާސާލުހ ާދާސ
ުރަސައ ެނާފްށޮކ ްށަޓްއެވާމިތ ްނެގިޅުގ ިއާއުޢޫރްޝަމ ެގުމުއިދްނެގ ްސަގްއުރ ްށަޓޯޒިރ ުރަފުގިދ ްނުހޮޅާމ.ބ ީކަޓޯޕިރ ާސާރިދިމ
ްޑެޓިމިލ ްޓެވިއަރްޕ ްސްޓްނަމްޓްސެވްނިއ ުރަފުގިދ ީކަރާޔިދެއ ެގުޢޫރްޝަމިމ .ެވެކެއާސާރިދ ާވިއަފިވެރުކ ްނުތޮގ ެގުމުރުކްނަޒަވ
.ެވެއ .ެވެއ
ްނެގެވްނުނޭބ ީހެއ ްށަތަކްއަސަމ ެގުމުދެހ ްއެޑނަދ ްލަސްޓުފ ްނުލިސްނުއަކ ުށަރެއ ީނުމްނިނ ްށަމުނެމިހ ްސޮޅާމ ިއަގުއޫރްޝަމިމ
އެދުމާއި އެ މަސައްކަތުގައި ރުއްގަސް ކަނޑަން ކަނޑައެޅިފައިވުމުން، މުޖުތަމައަށް ފައިދާވާގޮތަށް ރުއްގަސް ކެނޑުމުގެ ފުރުސަތެއް
ލިބުމުންނެވެ. 250މިގޮތުން ރުއްގަސް ދިގުފަރު ރިސޯޓަށް ގެންދިއުމަށް، ރަށު ކައުންސިލުން ވަނީ ހުއްދަ ދީފައެވެ. މާޅޮހާއި
ްށަމަކްށަރްއެއ ަނޭށަކެއ ެމްނެއ ްށަމުއިދްނެގ ްސަގްއުރ ްސެވްނުމުވްށަކަށަރ ިރިއަކ ީކަހޮޅާމ ިއާމަކްތާގ ިރުހ ިއާޓޯސިރ ުރަފުގިދ
.ެވެނުޅެއަޑނަކ .ެވެނުޅެއަޑނަކ
.ެވެތަކްއަސަމ ެގުމުދޯހ ްށަތަދްއުހ ޭހެޖްނަގަނ ްނުކަތާރާޒުވ ޭހެބާމަކ ީނަދްށައިރުކ ުރާހިމ ިއަކަޓްށަމުރުކްތަކްއަސަމ ެގުޢޫރްޝަމ
.ެވެ .ެވެ ކެޓޯޕިރ ުނުވެރުކުރާޔްއަތ ްށަމުޅެހަށުހ ްށައ ޭއ.ީޕ.ީއ ްށަމުގެނަދްއުހ ްލަޓްނެމަރާވްނެއ ާވްނުނޭބ ްށައުއޫރްޝަމ ީކަޓޯޕިރިމ ްނުތޮގިމ
ްށަތަކްއަސަމ ުކެއިއާމުބިލަދްއުހ ްށޮކްސާފ ްނުކަތާރާދިއ ޭހެބ ިއާމަކ ްޓޯޕިރ ާސާރިދާރުކ ިއަކަޓްށަމުތަގެނެދ ުރަސައާރުކ ްށަޓްއެވާމިތ
06- ީނަވިއަފިހެޖަމަހ ްށަމަކެނާގނިހ ްށަތަކްއަސަމިޅުމ .ެވެއެނޭވުނޮފ ްށަރަފާމ ްނުހީމުތަކްއަސަމިދައ ުނާމާސ ިއާޗްއެކަތ ާވްނުނޭބ
08 .ެވެއާތްފަހ .ެވެއާތްފަހ 08
:ިއަގޭރެތ ެގުކަތްތަކްއަސަމ ުޑނަގިއަމ ާވިއަފިހެޖަމަހ ްށަމުރުކ ްނުށަދ ެގުއޫރްޝަމިމ
ްނުރުކުފާސ ްއެދްއަހަރަސ ެގުޓޫފ ަކައ 16500 ަލްމުޖ ްށަކަޑނަގްތާގ ިއަގުތާރަފ ުރުތުއުގނަޅުހ ެގުށަރ •
ްނުރުކްނުފ ްށަރަޓީމ 01 ެގުދްއަހަރަސ 75m × 10m ިއަގުތާރަފީތަމުރިއ •
ްނުރުކްލެވެލ ުދްއަޙަރަސ ިއަޅައްސަފ ްށަކަތުޑްނަގުޅަވޭދެހ ްނުމުގެނ ްސަގްއުރ •
ްނުދްނިއ ްސޮގްނެގ ްށަރަފުގިދ ްސަގްއުރ ޭގެނ •
ިއާދޫމ (ހ) ިއަގޭރެތ ެގުކަތުރަސައ ޭވެދޭނ ެނާފްށޮކ ްށަޓްއެވާމިތ ްނުބަބަސ ެގުއޫރްޝަމިމ ިއަގުތޮގުނުވެރުކަގަހާފ ްނިއާސާރިދިމ
(ނ) ްނުޔިދިތެނ ްނުރިދ ެވުބނަލިކ ުދްއަހަރަސެއ ްނުބަބަސ ެގުމުރުކްނުފ ްއެދްއަހަރަސ ެގުޅަފ (ށ)ްނުވުރަޔްއަޢަތ ްނެފ ެގުށަރ
ޭވެރުކްނުފ (ރ) ިދައ ްނުވުރަޔްއަޢަތ ިށެވ ެވަނިގ ުރަވްނިމޭދެފުއިނުކ ްނުބަބަސ ެގުކަތ ުރުސްނުއ ިރުހްނުޅުގ ުއާއޫރްޝަމ
.ެވެއެނެމިހ ްނުއައުލަދަބ ްށަށޮދުޑނޮގ ެގުށަރ ްނެގިޅުގ ިއާދްއަހަރަސ
Prepared by: CDE Consultancy Page|xv
EIA for the Proposed Coconut Palm Relocation Project in Maalhos Island, Baa Atoll
ްނުލްއެގ ެނާދިބިލ ްނުކަމަކ ަދަފެއ ިއާށަމުތަގެނެދ ުރަވްނިމާރުކ ްށަތުރަސައ ެނާފްށޮކ ްށަޓްއެވާމިތ ާވިއަފްށޮކްނާޔަބ ިއަގުޓޯޕިރިމ
ެގުއޫރްޝަމ ިއަކަޓްށަމުތަގެނެދ ްނަކްނަކެއ ިއަގްއެތަލާހ ެޖްއެވިތަމިރުކ ްއެމަކ ްތެނިއަފިވެރުކްނާޔަބ ިއަގުޓޯޕިރ ިމ ިދައ ިއާށަމުރުކަޑުކ
ުޑނަގިއަމ ާވިއަފިހެޖަމަހ ްށަމުލެބ ްނުތޮގިމ .ެވެއެވިއަފިހެޖަމަހ ްށަމުރުކްނީރްކްސ ްށަމަކްނަކ ަދަފިމ ިއަގުކަތާލަހުރަމ ިކެއ
ކަންތައްތަކުގެ ތެރޭގައި ބިމުގެ ފެންފަށަލައަށް އަންނަ ބަދަލު (ފެނުގައި ލޮނު އެކުލެވޭމިންވަރު) ބެލުމާއި، ކުނިއެއްކޮށް ނައްތާލެވޭގޮތް
ބެލެހެއްޓުމާއި، މޫދަށް ގަސްކާނާ ފައިބާ ނިސްބަތްބެލުމަށްޓަކައި ރަށުގެ ވަށައިގެން މޫދުލޮނު ޓެސްޓްކުރުން ހިމެނެއެވެ. މީގެ އިތުރުން
.ެވެއެނޭވެރުކާސާރިދ ާލަބ ްށަތުލަދަބ ަންނައ ްށަބާސިހ ޭވެރުކްނުފ ިއާށޮދ ުޑނޮގ ެގުށަރ
މިމަޝްރޫއިން ލިބިދެވޭ ފައިދާތަކުގެ ތެރޭގައި ރަށުގެ ރުއްގަސްވެރީންނަށް އެދެވޭ ބަދަލުލިބިދިނުމާއި، ރަށުގެ މަގުހެދުން އަދި ދިގުފަރު ދިގުފަރު
.ެވެއެނާދްނެގެވިހަފުގަމ ްށަމުވުޅުހ ުޓޯސިރ ްށަހަވައ ިމިންތަކްއަސަމ ެގުޓޯސިރ
ްށަތުލަދަބ ެގުރަވްނިމ ިކެއ ްށޮކްށަތުރަސައިތެޑޮބ ުނަހުނ ިއާމިތްޖިއ ިދައ ީދާސިތްގިއ ިއާށަޓްއެވ ެގުށަރ ްނުބަބަސ ެގުއޫރްޝަމ ިމ
ާވިއަފިވެރުކަގަހާފ ްނުތޮގ ެގުމުރުކަޑުކ ްއަތުރަސައ ިވެންނެދިމ ްސެވަމަންނެހެއ .ެވެއެވެރުކަގަހާފ ްށަމަކެނާވުނެގ ްނުކަތާރިއާދިމ
ްށަރަވ ްށަތުރަސައ ޭވެދޭނ ާރުކ ްނުބަބަސ ެގުކަތުލަދަބ ަދަފުނުވެންނެދ ަމަނިފްސޮގްނެގ ްށައިރުކ ުޢޫރްޝަމ ެވުލާމަސ ްށަމަކްނަކ
ެގުކަތްއަތްނަކ ީވްނޭދ ްއެމަކުލާމަސ ަސްއާޚ ިއަގުމުއިދްނެގ ްށައިރުކުޢޫރްޝަމ ްނުތޮގިމ .ެވެއެނާދިވެރުކަޑުކ ްށަކައަޖަރަދ ީތަމ
ިއަގުމުލާތްއަނ ްށޮކްއެއިނުކ ިދައ ިއާމުނިދުނަޔިވުރަޔްއަޢަތ ުދޫމ ިދައ ަލަށަފްނެފ ްނުބަބަސ ެގުކަތާދްއާމ ަހިވ ިކެއ ިއާލަކިމެކ ިއަގޭރެތ
ުރިއާލަބ ްށޮކްތަޔާޢިރ ްށަމަކްނަކ ާވިއަފިވެރުކްނާޔަބ ިވެންނެދ ިއަގީތަމ ްނުމަކްނެހެއ .ެވެއެނެމިހ ްނުރުކުރާޔިޚ ްއަތްތޮގިރެތާކްއަރ
.ެވެކެއުއޫރްޝަމ ެނޭދްށޮކާދިއަފ ުނަހުނ ްށަޓޯސިރ ުރަފުގިދ ިއާށަށަރ ުޅަގނަރ ްނުރުކ ީކައުޢޫރްޝަމިމ ިއަގްއެތޮގަލްމުޖ
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EIA for the Proposed Coconut Palm Relocation Project in Maalhos Island, Baa Atoll
1 INTRODUCTION
1.1 Purpose of the EIA
This Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) report is an evaluation of the potential environmental, socio-economic and natural impacts of the proposed coconut palm relocation project in Maalhos, Baa Atoll. The project is proposed by Dhigufaru Investments Pvt Ltd (on behalf of Maalhos island council) and the project contractor is yet to be determined. The EIA consultant is CDE Consulting.
This document has been developed based on the Terms of Reference (Appendix A) issued by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on 04th November 2015. This document is submitted to EPA by the proponent to fulfil the requirements of Environmental Protection and Preservation Act (EPPA) of the Maldives (4/93), more specifically the clause 5 of the Act which states that a report should be submitted before implementation of any project that may have a potential impact on the environment.
1.2 Project Proponent
The proponent of this project is Dhigufaru Investments Private Limited. This is a company formed solely to own and develop a resort property on Dhigufaruvinagandu Island.
Baa Maalhos Island Council has requested Dhigufaru to take the initiative on completing this EIA, in return for providing the coconut palms for the resort.
The address and contact information for the proponent is as follows:
Dhigufaru Investments Pvt Ltd Huraa, Fareedheemagu, Maafannu, Male', Republic of Maldives. Tel: +(960) 330 2656, Fax: +(960) 333 0804 Email: [email protected]
1.3 Project Background and Rationale
Dhigufaruvingandu Island was initially leased for tourism in 2011 in conjunction with a proposed sewerage system development project in an island in Baa Atoll, under the Community Social Responsibility (CSR) programme of the Government. Later, the initial agreement was superseded by a separate agreement to develop the resort without the CSR component.
Dhigufaru island is small island (3.8 Ha.), and is in need for more coconut palms to revegetate and landscape the island. The coconut palm trees are to be sourced from the island of Baa Maalhos.
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EIA for the Proposed Coconut Palm Relocation Project in Maalhos Island, Baa Atoll
The council of Baa Maalhos has agreed to provide coconut palms to Dhigufaru Investment Pvt Ltd from an area (100 ft x 165 ft) designated for a new futsal stadium on the island of Baa Maalhos, in return for:
• The clearance and levelling of the allocated area , and • The completion of the necessary EIA for the project
The letter from Maalhos Council is presented in Annex D.
The main rationale for the project is the immediate need for revegetation of Dhigufaruvinagandu Island by Dhigufaru Investments Pvt Ltd. The project also supplements the local council’s need to clear and level an area of land for the development of a new futsal stadium.
1.4 Project Scope
The overall project involves clearing land for a football pitch in Maalhos and transplanting all removed coconut palms to Dhigufaruvinagandu Island, a resort island under construction.
The project will involve the following key components:
Site preparation: • Mobilization of equipment’s for coconut palm removal to the project location. Uprooting of coconut palms: • 250 coconut palms will be uprooted from the site, and relocated to Baa Dhigufaruvinagandu Re-planting: • The coconut palms will be replanted in designated locations of Dhigufaru Island Resort Backfilling and demobilization: • Holes left behind from uprooting will be backfilled and the area will be levelled • Equipment’s and vehicles used for project will be demobilized Additional palms and large trees will be relocated to designated locations within the island, by the island council
See next chapter for more details.
1.5 Aim and Objectives
The aim of this project is to clear the site necessary for a futsal court construction in Maalhos Island Baa Atoll and to reuse the trees for revegetation in Dhigufaruvinagandu Island in the same atoll.
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EIA for the Proposed Coconut Palm Relocation Project in Maalhos Island, Baa Atoll
1.6 Consultants, Contractors and Government Institutions
All the EIA related work is undertaken by consultants from CDE Consulting. Design criteria and technical specifications have been developed by CDE Consulting and Proponent. The project contractor is also Dhigufaru Investments Private Limited.
No donor agencies are involved in this project. The project will be financed by Dhigufaru Investments Private Limited.
1.7 Project Financing
The project is financed by the Dhigufaru Investments Private Limited.
1.8 Scope and Terms of Reference of EIA
The scope of this EIA is broadly based on the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations 2012. The assessment more specifically adheres to the Terms of Reference (ToR) issued by the Environmental Protection Agency on 04th November 2015. The ToR is based on scoping meetings held between the stakeholders at the EPA.
A copy of the ToR is attached in Appendix A.
The EIA report contains the following main aspects.
A description of the project including the need for the project, how the project will be undertaken, full description of the relevant parts of the project, implementation schedules, site plans and summary of project inputs and outputs (Chapter 1&2).
A description of the pertinent national and international legislation, regulations and policies that are relevant and applicable to the project and a demonstration of how the project conforms to these aspects (Chapter 3)
Information about the exiting baseline environmental conditions of the site. These include coastal and marine environment of the site and natural hazard vulnerability of the site (Chapter 4).
An assessment of the potential impacts during both construction and operational stages of the project as well as identification and cost of the potential mitigation measures to prevent or reduce significant negative impacts during both construction and operation stages of the project(Chapter 5).
Assessment of alternatives for the proposed project (Chapter 6)
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EIA for the Proposed Coconut Palm Relocation Project in Maalhos Island, Baa Atoll
Details of the environmental monitoring plan (Chapter 7).
Potential gaps in information (Chapter 8)
Main conclusions (Chapter 9)
1.9 Summary of Assessment Methodology
This EIA is broadly guided by the EIA Regulations 2012.
This report has been prepared to ensure that the significant environmental and social impacts of the proposed project at the mobilisation, relocation and demobilising stages have been considered and assessed at the project planning phase.
The process followed in the preparation of this EIA report consists of six parts. These are: scoping consultations; literature review; field surveys; stakeholder consultations; analysis of results; and compilation of the assessment in the form of a report.
In order to conduct a broad based and inclusive study, the proponent and the consultant have from the onset ensured the exercise is participatory. As such, discussions have been held with community members in the projects area and relevant stakeholders with the assistance and coordination of the proponent.
Much of the baseline information for this study is based on the original EIA. The rest of this section summarises the methods used in the original EIA.
1.9.1 The Study Area
The area impacted by projects like these can be quite wide particularly when the socio-economic impacts are considered. The study area of this project considers that the project footprint on the island and much of the reef system of the island will be affected by the project activities and that Maalhos Island will experience the bulk of the socio-economic change.
Based on the results of the initial scoping of potential environmental impacts and the identification of sensitive aspects of the environment we have identified the following geographical areas likely to be affected at the various stages of the Project:
− During dredging and relocation activities, temporary and permanent impacts will occur primarily on Maalhos Island and the reef system with 500 m radius of the shoreline. The most direct physical impact will be on-site in the area of the actual physical interventions, particularly coastal development footprints and temporary
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EIA for the Proposed Coconut Palm Relocation Project in Maalhos Island, Baa Atoll
sand bed areas. To ensure the impacts are fully covered the entire island environment system is studied.
− During transplantation the impacts will be felt on Dhigufaruvinagandu Island.
− During operation of the island most impacts will be confined to the area that will be affected by construction impacts.
− There will also be induced development impacts due to the project, mainly in the form of positive socio-economic benefits to Maalhos Island. Study area boundary is presented in Figure 1.1 and survey locations map for the project is attached in Appendix E.
Figure 1.1: Study Area boundary
1.9.2 Field Observations
Field assessments were undertaken in Maalhos between 14 and 15 November 2015. Field visits mainly covered water quality, beach conditions, terrestrial environment marine environment and lagoon condition of the proposed project site. In addition, stakeholder consultations were carried out in Maalhos during the trip.
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EIA for the Proposed Coconut Palm Relocation Project in Maalhos Island, Baa Atoll
Coastal Processes
Beach profiles were taken from designated locations around the island using standard levelling techniques. These profile locations are marked in Appendix E. The measurement of beach profiles involves standard practice of surveying with a staff and a dumpy level. Measurements were taken along the beach profile line at different intervals, wherever there occurred a distinctive morphological feature, such as beach ridge, high water mark, an erosion scarp, dip, rise, or other significant break in the beach slope up to a minimum distance of 30 m from the Benchmark. Other beach attributes such as beach rock were marked using handheld GPS.
Lagoon currents were measures using drogue method. About 3 measurements were undertaken from every site and an average value is determined.
Tide data has been taken from Male’ International Airport Tide Gauge.
Wave patterns have been estimated using secondary studies and visual field assessments.
Marine Assessments
Photo Quadrat Survey
The composition of the substrate was assessed by taking twenty high-resolution images every 5 m (pictures covering 0.5 m2 of the seabed) along the same transect line used for the fish surveys. These were later analysed using CPCe. CPCe, or Coral Point Count with excel extension, developed by the National Coral Reef Institute, is software designed to determine coral community coverage and diversity using transect photographs. Underwater photographic frames are overlaid by a matrix of randomly generated points, and the fauna/flora of species or substrate type lying beneath each point is identified. 20 random points per picture were analysed to characterize the substrate composition (sample size: 200 points per transect).
Fish Census
Fish and invertebrates species assemblages and abundance was surveyed using 50 m line transects, whereby the monitor swam along transect and recorded the number and the different species of fish and invertebrates observed within 2.5 m either side of the transect line.
A category-based methodology was adopted to estimate fish abundance and the mean number of fish per category and observation was extracted to estimate species and family abundance. The categories used to estimate abundance is displayed in Table 1.1.
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EIA for the Proposed Coconut Palm Relocation Project in Maalhos Island, Baa Atoll
Table 1-1: Fish abundance categories
Category Number of fish 1 1 2 2 - 4 3 5 - 16 4 17 - 64 5 65 - 256
Visual Snorkelling Survey
Visual snorkelling surveys were carried out at select locations of the lagoon. General status of these sites were recorded, special attention was given to types of corals and fishes present at these sites and the environmental conditions that could affect growth such as suspended solids, depth, and other threats to coral life.
Water Quality
Water quality was assessed from MWSC laboratory. Water quality samples were taken at different locations selected based on proposed developments. Parameters measured include electrical conductivity, total suspended solids (TSS), salinity, pH, and temperature.). Samples were collected in clean 1.5L PET bottles after washing them with the water to be sampled. Water samples were collected at mid depth. Biological samples were collected in sterilized 100 ml sampling bags provided by the MWSC Laboratory.
1.9.3 Desk Study Review
A literature review was conducted to acquire background information on the site and its environment as well as to identify possible environmental impacts of similar developments in island settings. In this context, the EIA Regulations 2012, best practices from similar development activities, scientific studies undertaken in similar settings around Maldives and previous documents/historical publications was considered.
The literature review comprised of, but is not limited to, the following:
• EIA for the Transplantation of Coconut palms from K. Kaashidhoo to K. Bolifushi
• IEE Report for Relocation of Coconut palms from Rasgatheem to Fushivelavaru Resort
• Terrestrial Ecosystem monitoring Study for North Province
• Island development plans of Maalhos.
• Dhigufarunivagandu Resort Development EIA
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EIA for the Proposed Coconut Palm Relocation Project in Maalhos Island, Baa Atoll
• Relevant regulations, including dredging and reclamation regulation, Dewatering Regulation and Regulation on cutting down and uprooting trees.
1.9.4 Public and Key Stakeholder Consultation
Stakeholder consultations were undertaken with the following stakeholders:
• Maalhos Island Council
• Maalhos public
• The Contractor
1.9.5 Data Analysis
The EIA experts used their experience and knowledge in their respective fields to analyse the data from the previous studies and field visits in order to determine the potential impacts of the proposed projects, the severity of effects arising from these impacts and how any adverse impacts can be best mitigated and positive impacts enhanced. This analysis provides the framework for the recommendations on corrective actions and remedial measures and provides the basis for the formulation of the environmental management plan which forms part of this repo EIA
1.9.6 Report Format
The report format and structure presented here follows the report formatting guidelines issued by EPA.
1.10 Study Team Members
Dr. Ahmed Shaig (EIA and coastal environment Specialist) Mr. Ali Nishaman (Terrestrial Environment Specialist) Mr. Mohamed Faizan (Marine Environment Specialist) Mr. Mohamed Ali (Marine Environment Specialist) Mr. Ahmed Haiman Rasheed (Marine Surveys) Mr. Ali Moosa Didi (Surveying and bathymetry) Mr. Ahmed Nashwan Abdul Matheen (GIS & Mapping) Ms. Shahdha (Social Assessment) The curriculum vitae’s of the EIA consultants are attached in Appendix I of this report.
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EIA for the Proposed Coconut Palm Relocation Project in Maalhos Island, Baa Atoll
2 PROJECT DESCRIPTION
2.1 Project Location
The island of Maalhos is located on the eastern rim South Maalhosmadulu Atoll lagoon at approximately 73°6'27.495"E and 5°8'4.443"N (see Figure 2.1). Maalhos is a moderately small island with a land area of 23.3 Ha, length of 720 m and width of 475 m. The island occupies about 40% of the reef system and is the only island within the reef.
The nearest island is Dharavandhoo Island (inhabited island) just 3 km NE. The other nearest inhabited islands are Eydhafushi (5.2 km) and Dhonfanu (5.7). Dharavandhoo Airport is the nearest airport. Sonevafushi Island Resort lies within 4 km on the SW.
The marine sensitive or protected areas within 10 km of the island are Hanifaru, Angafaru and Dhigali Haa (see Figure 2.2). The nearest site is 5 km away. The whole atoll is a designated UNESCO biosphere reserve.
The project site is located on the NW section of the island. The proposed borrow area is located in the lagoon on the NW side of the island (See Figure 2.4).
2.2 Project Outline and Project Site Plan
The proposed site plan is presented in Appendix B. A Reduced version of the site plan is provided in Figure 2.4 below. The construction site plan is presented in Figure 2.5. The areas potentially affected by the project are presented in Figure 2.6.
This project mainly involves land clearing, transplanting removed coconut palms to Dhigufaruvinagandu Island and backfilling the holes left behind due to uprooting.
The main components of the project are:
1. Mobilization and site preparation
2. Vegetation removal
3. Transportation and replantation
4. Backfilling
5. Finalizing and Demobilization
The next section provides the details of the project components.
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EIA for the Proposed Coconut Palm Relocation Project in Maalhos Island, Baa Atoll
Figure 2.1: Location map of Maalhos
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Figure 2.2: Locality map and environmentally sensitive zones in the vicinity
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Figure 2.3: Aerial image of Maalhos Island
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Figure 2.4: Project Site Plan (reduced version)
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Figure 2.5: Construction Site plan
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Figure 2.6: Project foot print and Potential Affected Areas
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2.3 Detailed Project Outline and Work Methodology
2.3.1 Site Mobilisation and setup
Site mobilisation involves the mobilisation of equipment, materials and workforce to the island, providing necessary storage for materials, site access and services for the workforce. All site mobilisation and construction related activities will be undertaken in a planned manner and will be supervised by a competent site supervisor. It is expected that two excavators, a barge and a truck will have to be deployed to the island.
Workforce
Approximately 10-15 staff will be required for the project. This includes 4 drivers, 1 supervisor, 1 technician and 6 labourers.
There would be opportunities for local population of island to be employed as labourers as this swill reduce project cost and add to ease of operations. The drivers and supervisors will be sent to the island by the proponent.
Site office and temporary accommodation
Staff will be accommodated in leased houses from the island and as some the labourers will be employed from the island the need for housing is reduced.
The site office will be a temporary establishment in a leased property as the project takes only 3- 4 weeks.
2.3.2 Land clearance
An area the size of 100ft x 65 ft m is proposed to be cleared under the project. The site will be used to construct a football pitch and in the future a futsal pitch. The site details are presented in Figure 2.2 and Appendix B.
Quantity of vegetation to be removed
The approximate quantity of vegetation on the allocated clearing areas is given in the following figure. The sites are dominated by coconut palms. In addition to the species given in the figure approximately 15% is covered by low canopy vegetation (Magoo species, bokeyo and grass).
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Table 2.1: Estimated vegetation to be removed
No. of trees Detail
300-320 Coconut Palms
4 Hirundhu
1 Madhoshi
2 Midhili
4 Faikeyo
10 Other
1 Banbukeyo
Method employed to remove trees
Coconut palms and other trees with deep root systems will be sawed around at the base so that soil removal is minimal while some amount of soil is withheld with the root system. The tree will be lifted with the help of an excavator and a purpose built belt, and gently laid on to the truck.
The top canopy of the coconut palms will be pruned except for the crown and approximately 1/3 of the fronds will be removed.
The root area will be wrapped in gunny bag material and kept damp with water to ensure it stays moist during transportation. Next the palm fronds will be sprayed with water and wrapped together with rope.
2.3.3 Backfilling holes
The trenches and holes dug out to uproot the coconut palms will be backfilled with sand. It is estimated that about 300-500 m3 of sand would be required to backfill the holes.
Materials for backfilling will be sought from the proposed borrow areas on the north-western lagoon as shown in Appendix B. Dredging will be done by an excavator loaded on a sand bed (see next section). Material will be left to dry before being used for backfilling. The backfilled areas will be levelled to ground level.
It is recommended that the additional green waste generated to be used to create mulch. The fronds will be shredded into 5 – 10 inch pieces using. These will be used in Dhigufaruvinagandu for land scaping.
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2.3.4 Dredging
2.3.4.1 Proposed borrow site
The Island Council has proposed 3 sites (Figure 2.2 and Appendix B) on the northwestern side of the island so that it will be suitable to be designated as recreational swimming areas and small boat mooring. The proposed site is planned to be used as a boat yard and therefore they request the site to be dredged for future use. The proponent has no specific preferred site, except that the site be close to the backfilling area.
Under normal circumstances dredging within 50 from the vegetation line is not allowed under the Dredging and Reclamation Regulation. However, exceptions are made for dredging harbour basins, reef entrances and boatyard basins. Thus, the proponent will dredge the lagoon around the proposed boat yard area. However, to minimize environmental impacts on the beach dredging will be undertaken 30 m from the shoreline.
The proposed site covers a maximum of 750 sq m and will be dredged to a depth of 1 m from the lagoon bottom. A maximum 750 cbm is available for dredging but only the required amount will be dredged.
2.3.4.2 Equipment and method employed
An excavator will be used for the dredging works. Given the average depth at 0.9 m MSL of the site a shallow temporary sand bed will be constructed to the site (see figure 2.5). The bed will be removed upon completion.
Sand will be excavated using backhoe excavator and loaded on to trucks. The trucks will take the sand to the required sites. Sand placement will be undertaken manually or will be assisted by the excavator. The estimated travel routes are defined in Figure 2.5 but may change depending on contractor needs.
2.3.4.3 Sediment containment measures
Sediment containment measures will not be deployed due the small scale of the project and the absence of any major live coral colonies in the vicinity. Moreover, the project is to be undertaken in calm conditions during SW monsoon. The proposed site is protected during NE monsoon.
2.3.4.4 Labour requirement and duration
This component will employ 1 driver 1 supervisor and 4 labourers to backfill and transport the sand. The duration of work is anticipated to be 2 weeks for this component.
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2.3.5 Transportation
The uprooted coconut palms will be transported to the barge landing area via trucks. It is estimated that 250-300 trees will be moved. The truck will shuttle between the project site and boatyard to deliver the trees. An excavator will be used to gently place the coconut palms onto the barge. The barge will transport the trees to Dhigufaruvinagandu and shuttle between the two islands for the duration of the project. It is estimated that about 10-15 trips will be required and will depend on the contractor’s preferences.
Transportation on land will utilize the existing road.
The existing harbour area is will be used as a site for barge anchoring and has an average depth of 2.5m MSL.
2.3.6 Replanting of trees in Dhigufaruvinagandu
Sites for replanting will be identified by the Dhigufaruvinagandu landscaping team. Different locations have been allocated for the plantation coconut palms as per the islands landscaping plan. Other types of vegetation will be used mostly on the coastline to improve islands coastal buffer zone vegetation. The site plan for resort development has been approved in the original EIA.
The planting holes will be watered prior to re-plantation. The palms will be placed exactly at the original height to prevent trunk rot. Initially the trees will be supported by 3 timber stakes tied around it, where necessary, until the roots of the palms take hold. Regular watering will be required to at least 3-4 months to assist tree growth until root re-establishment.
Dhigufaruvinagandu island is currently in the final stage of development where finishing and landscaping works are being carried out.
2.3.7 Environmental Management
2.3.7.1 Environment Enhancement Measures
Care will be taken to handle the works with minimal damage to the environment. All labourers will be made aware of environmental sensitiveness of the environment and environmental impact mitigation measures outlined in chapter 9.
2.3.7.2 Pollution control measures
The following measures will be taken to ensure minimal pollution during the course of the project.
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• Machinery will be properly tuned and maintained to reduce emissions and minimize risk of spills/leaks. • Spill kits will be maintained around island to handle any liquid spills.
2.3.7.3 Health and safety Measures
The proponent would ensure that Health and Safety procedures are complied with at all times. All reasonable precautions will be taken for the safety of employees, and equipment will be operated by competent persons. Warning signs, barricades or warning devices will be provided and used. Necessary safety gear will be worn at all times. Appropriate medical emergency kits will be made available on the island and at selected locations on the island.
2.3.7.4 Waste Management
The organic waste will be transported to the islands waste management site near the football ground on the eastern side of the island. Other combustible matter will be incinerated using a waste incinerator on Dhigufaru resort and the rest of non-combustible matter will be taken to a waste disposal site designated by the Government authorities on a regular basis.
2.3.7.5 Power Generation and Fuel Management
The project does not require constant electricity for project works. However fuel will be brought with the proponent and stored at a bunded location. As the staff will be accommodated at least houses power and other utility services are obtained from local service providers.
2.4 Project Schedule and Life Span
The Table 2.1 shows the project activities and their respective duration. The project is scheduled to be completed in 5 weeks and works in Maalhos Island is to be completed in 04 weeks. The use of 02 excavators enables fast tree removal and backfilling works. The preliminary work plan is provided below. The actual details may be dependent on the final contractor.
Table 2.2: Project Schedule
Activity / Weeks 1 2 3 4 5
Mobilisation X Tree removal X X X X Backfilling X X X Transportation of trees X X X X Transplantation of trees in Dhigufaruvinagandu X X X X
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2.5 Labour Requirements and Availability
Approximately 18 staff members of the contractor will be involved in the project.
The tentative list of labour requirements is given in Table 2.3.
Table 2.2: List of labour requirements
Activity or work group Specialists Engineer/supervisor 1 Workers 8 Special equipment 3 Surveyor 2 Administrative 1 Support Staff 3 Total 18
2.6 Summary of Project Inputs and Outputs
The main inputs and outputs during project are provided in Table 2.2 and Table 2.3 respectively.
Table 2.3: Main inputs during construction stage
Input resource(s) Source/Type How to obtain resources
Construction workers Maldivians Recruiting agencies, etc. Engineers and Site Maldivians Advertise in local papers, supervisors social networks, etc. Maintenance material Local Import or purchase locally where available Water supply Local providers on the island Bottled water, purchased locally. Electricity/Energy Island service providers Purchase locally (during construction) Machinery Excavators, trailers, electric saws etc.. Import or hire locally where available Food and Beverage Mainly imported sources except a few Import and purchase locally locally available products. Firefighting equipment Fire Pumps, Fire Protection System, Local suppliers Smoke Detectors, Carbon Dioxide and Foam Fire Extinguishers, etc. Fuel, Kerosene and LPG Light Diesel, LPG Gas, Petrol, Lubricants Local suppliers
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Table 2.4: Main outputs during construction stage
Products and waste Anticipated quantities Method of disposal materials Green waste from site Large quantity Sent to island waste management site clearance Trees and shrubs Large quantity Replanted Waste oil Small quantities Incinerated at Dhigufaru Hazardous waste (diesel) Small quantities Barrelled and sent to designated landfill as part of overall hazardous waste management programme of the island
2.7 Demobilization
The proponent advocates a phased demobilization plan to commence in the last week of the contract. The actual demobilisation plan depends on the contractor preferences.
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3 POLICY AND LEGAL FRAMEWORK
3.1 Introduction
This Chapter will provide a summary of the legal instruments applicable to the project and demonstrate how the project conforms to these aspects.
The main legal instruments of concern are the Environmental Protection and Preservation Act (EPPA) 1993, the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations 2012.
All contractors and sub-contractors will be informed of these requirements.
3.2 Relevant Legislation
3.2.1 Environment Protection and Preservation Act (Act no. 4/93)
− Environment Protection and Preservation Act of Maldives (4/93) is the framework law on environmental management in the Maldives. Articles 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8 of the law are relevant to this project.
− Article 2 states that the concerned government authorities shall provide the necessary guidelines and advise on environmental protection in accordance with the prevailing conditions and needs of the country. All concerned parties shall take due considerations of the guidelines provided by the government authorities. The project proponent shall abide by any guidelines or advice given by the concerned Government authorities for the project. The concerned Government authorities are identified in this Chapter.
− Article 4 states that the Ministry of Housing, Transport and Environment shall be responsible for identifying protected areas and natural reserves and for drawing up the necessary rules and regulations for their protections and preservation. The proponent shall ensure that there is no negative impact from the proposed project on any protected areas.
− According to Article 5 (a) of the Act, an Environmental Impact Assessment study shall be submitted to the Ministry of Environment and Energy (MEE) before implementing any activity that may have an impact on the environment. This EIA report is prepared and submitted by the project proponent to fulfil the legal requirement stipulated in Act (4/93) Article 5.
− According to Article 6, the MEE has the authority to terminate any project that has any undesirable impact on the environment. A project so terminated shall not
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receive any compensation. The project proponent is aware of this provision and will take all practical measures to ensure there is no irreversible and significant negative impact of the project.
− Article 7 of the Environment Protection Act (4/93) prohibits the disposal of wastes, oil and gases in a manner that will damage the environment. Wastes, oil and gases has to be disposed of in areas designated by the Government. Hence, the project proponent shall use the Environmental Management Plan for this project which specifies how the wastes, oil and gases generated by the project will be disposed.
− Article 8 of the Environment Protection Act (4/93) prohibits the disposal of hazardous wastes. Any hazardous wastes that may be generated from the project shall be transferred to the designated waste site for disposal according to Government regulations and standards.
3.2.2 Agricultural Legislation
The MoFA has prohibited the logging of 20 species of plants. Prior written consent of MoFA has to be obtained for the felling of trees from these species (Table 3.1).
MoFA also maintains the following requirements with regards to imported plants; plants brought into the country have to be quarantined and prior written consent is required from MoFA for import of plants and animals.
The type and amount of fertilizers imported for agriculture, landscaping and gardening purposes has to be approved by MoFA.
Table 3.1: Trees protected from logging by Ministry of Fisheries and Agriculture
Common Name Local Name Scientific Name Beefwood / casuarina Fithuroanu gas Casavarina equisetifolia Rubber plant Rabaru gas Ficus elastica Jack fruit Sakkeyou gas Artocarpus intergrifolia Burmese rosewood Ofielhey gas Pterocapus indicus Tecona Madimas vakaru gas Tecoma spp Teak Haivakaru gas Tectona grandis Sepodilla plum Sabudheli gas Acharas sapota Eucalyptus Bodu aavi gas Eucalypta grandis Ebony tree Kalhuvakaru gas Dispyros ebenum Mango An’bu gas Manifera indica Golden apple Jahamuguri gas Aegle marmelos
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Cashew nut Kaju gas Anacardium occidentale Asoka Asokaa gas Polynthia longifolia Acacia Ekeysiaa gas Acacia auriculiformis Flame of the forest Bodu gas Delonix regia Norfolk island pine tree Thuravvaas gas Araucaria heterophylla Rain tree Reethi gas Samanea saman Gamboge tree An’bihi gas Garcinia cambogia Nal gall / Chebulic myrobalans Arolhi gas Terminalia chebula Beleric myrobalan Burolhi gas Terminalia bellerica
3.3 Relevant Regulations and Guidelines
3.3.1 Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations 2012
− Environmental Impact Assessment regulations were issued by Environment Ministry on 8 May 2012. The first step in environmental assessment process involves screening of the project to be classified as one that requires an EIA or not. Based on this decision, the Ministry then decides the scope of the EIA which is discussed with the proponent and the EIA consultants in a “scoping meeting”. The consultants then undertake the EIA starting with baseline studies, impact prediction and finally reporting the findings with impact mitigation and monitoring programme. This report follows the principles and procedures for EIA outlined in the EIA regulations.
− The EIA report is reviewed by MEE following which an EIA Decision Note is given to the proponent who will have to implement the Decision Note accordingly. As a condition of approval, appropriate environmental monitoring may be required and the proponent shall have to report monitoring data at required intervals to the Ministry. The project proponent is committed to implement all impact mitigation measures that are specified in this EIA report. Furthermore, the proponent is committed to environmental monitoring and shall fulfil environmental monitoring requirements that may be specified in the EIA decision note as a condition for project approval.
3.3.2 Regulation on Sand and Coral Mining
− Regulation on sand mining covers sand mining from uninhabited islands that have been leased; sand mining from the coastal zone of other uninhabited islands; and
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aggregate mining from uninhabited islands that have been leased and from the coastal zone of other uninhabited islands.
− Coral mining from house reef and atoll rim has been banned through a directive from President’s Office dated 26 September 1990.
− Coral would not be mined and used in any stage or activity of this project.
3.3.3 Regulation on Cutting Down, Uprooting, Digging Out and Export of Trees and Palms from One Island to Another
Pursuant to the Environment Protection and Preservation Act of Maldives 1993, the Environment Ministry made a bylaw with the purpose of educating developers about the importance of trees including best management practices for maintaining trees and provide standards for preservation of trees in the Maldives and set down rules and regulations to be adhered to prior to commencing felling, uprooting, digging out and exporting of trees and palms from one island to another in Maldives.
The by law states that the cutting down, uprooting, digging out and export of trees and palms from one island to another can only be done if it is absolutely necessary and there is no other alternative. It further states that for every tree or palm removed in the Maldives two more should be planted and grown in the island.
The by law prohibits the removal of the following tree types;
− The coastal vegetation growing around the islands extending to about 15 meters into the island
− All the trees and palms growing in mangrove and wetlands spreading to 15 meters of land area;
− All the trees that are in a Government protected areas;
− Trees that are being protected by the Government in order to protect species of
− animal/organisms that live in such trees; and − Trees/palms that is abnormal in structure.
3.3.4 Regulation on Dredging and Land Reclamation
The regulation of Dredging and Land Reclamation was published on 2 April 2013 with the aim of minimising environmental impacts associated with dredging activities in islands and reefs across Maldives.
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− The regulation defines the rationales acceptable for dredging as those related to approved development activities on inhabited islands and economic islands. It defines that those activities should be if utmost necessity for dredging to be considered.
− All dredging and reclamation activities must be approved by EPA in writing. The process includes the submission of project information to EPA along with a scaled before and after map.
− The regulation defines rationales for reclamation as those absolutely necessary for social, economic or safety purposes.
− Beach replenishment is restricted from 10 m of the registered shoreline in resort islands
− Dredging is restricted in the following areas:
o 500 m from the ocean side reef edge o 50 m from any island vegetation line o An environmentally sensitive site − Land reclamation is restricted within 200 m of a sensitive area.
− Land reclamation cannot exceed 30% of the house reef area
3.4 Guiding Policies and Documents
3.4.1 Third National Environmental Action Plan (NEAP III)
The Third National Environment Action Plan (NEAP III) of the Government of Maldives sets out the agenda for environmental protection and management for the period 2009 till 2013. NEAP III provides the basis for environmental planning, budgeting, performance measurement and accountability. The key target of NEAP III is to achieve measurable environmental results that matter to the people of the Maldives.
NEAP III provides the following principles to be adhered to in environment protection and environmental management.
1. Environmental protection is the responsibility of every individual. Protection of the natural environment and practicing environment friendly lifestyles is a responsibility of every Maldivian.
2. Achieve results. The actions, activities, regulations, supervision, reporting, incentives, information and advice for environmental management shall be directed and well co-ordinated to achieve the results the citizens want.
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3. Promote and practice sustainable development. In environmental management the principle of sustainable development shall be followed. Conditions shall be created to give equal distribution of environmental goods and services both geographically and between generations including future generations. Special attention shall be given to address the concerns of the most vulnerable groups in the population.
4. Ensure local democracy. In environmental management the actions and decisions shall be taken and authority exercised at the most appropriate level.
5. Inter-sectoral co-ordination and co-operation. Co-ordination and co-operation is essential from all sectors. For environmental management all should work informatively and co-operatively toward the goal of integrating environmental aspects into the goals and actions of all sectors.
6. Informed decision making. Actions for environmental management should be based on documented facts to as great extent as possible and not to pursue self-interest or short term gains.
7. Precaution first. Where there is threat of irreversible damage and when the factual basis is inadequate or uncertain, the precautionary principle shall apply.
8. Continuous learning and improvement. Favorable conditions shall be created for continuous learning and improvement in the work with environment management at the national, regional and local level
9. Right to information and participation. The citizens have a right to information about status of the environment as well as the right to participate in decisions affecting their environment. They also have the right to actively participate in protecting the environment.
10. Environmental protection complements development. Environmental protection efforts shall not be portrayed as competing with the development needs and aspirations of the present people. Healthy debate about values as they relate to ecological and social sustainability shall be encouraged.
More importantly, NEAP III consists of the following six strategic results that shall be attained during the period 2009-2013:
• Resilient Islands, • Rich Ecosystems, • Healthy Communities, • Safe Water, • Environmental Stewardship, and • Carbon Neutral Nation
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The proponent is aware of NEAP III and is committed to work with the 10 guiding policies and towards achieving the strategic results of NEAP III.
3.4.2 National Strategy for Sustainable Development
The National Strategy for Sustainable Development aims to unite all existing policies regarding environmental, social and economic development, and to provide a framework for future policies addressing these issues.
3.4.3 Carbon Neutral Policy
In March 2009, the President of the Maldives has announced the target to make Maldives carbon neutral by 2020. Accordingly, the developer shall be guided with carbon neutral strategies in the design and implementation of the proposed project.
3.4.4 Waste Management Policy
The aim of the waste management policy is to formulate and implement guidelines and means for solid waste management in order to maintain a healthy environment. Accordingly, the key elements of the policy include:
− Ensure safe disposal of solid waste and encourage recycling and reduction of waste generated; − Develop guidelines on waste management and disposal and advocate enforcing such guidelines through inter-sectoral collaboration; − Ensure safe disposal of chemical, hazardous and industrial waste.
3.5 Environmental Permits required for the Project
3.5.1 EIA Decision Note
The most important environmental permit to initiate tree removal works would be a decision regarding this EIA from MEE and EPA. The EIA Decision Note, as it is referred to, shall govern the manner in which the project activities must be undertaken. This EIA report assists decision makers in understanding the existing environment and potential impacts of the project. Therefore, the Decision Note may only be given to the Proponent after a review of this document following which EPA may request for further information or provide a decision if further information is not required. In some cases, where there are no major environmental impacts associated with the project, EPA may provide the Decision Note while at the same time requesting for further information.
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3.6 Relevant International Conventions, Treaties and Protocols
3.6.1 United Nations Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Kyoto Protocol
The UNFCCC is an “overall framework for the intergovernmental efforts to achieve stabilization of greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere at a low level enough to prevent dangerous anthropogenic interference with the climate system, recognizing that the climate system is a shared resource whose stability can be affected by industrial and other emissions of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases.”
The Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) of the Kyoto Protocol allows implementing project activities that reduce emissions in non-Annex I Parties, in return for certified emission reductions (CERs). Accordingly, the CERs generated by such project activities can be used by Annex I Parties to help meet their emission targets under the Kyoto Protocol.
3.6.2 United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity (UNCBD)
The objective of the UNCBD is “the conservation of biological diversity, the sustainable use of its components and the fair and equitable sharing of the benefits arising out of the utilization of genetic resources, including by appropriate access to genetic resources and by appropriate transfer of relevant technologies, taking into account all rights over those resources and to technologies and by appropriate funding.”
Maldives was one of the first nations to ratify the UNCBD. In 2002, Maldives developed the National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP) through wide consultation and extensive stakeholder participation.
3.6.3 United Nations Conference on Desertification (UNCCD)
Maldives ratified the UNCCD on 3 September 2002 and is effective from 2 December 2002.
The objective of UNCCD is “to combat desertification and mitigate the effects of drought in countries experiencing serious drought and/or desertification, particularly in Africa, through effective action at all levels, supported by international cooperation and partnership arrangements, in the framework of an integrated approach which is consistent with Agenda 21, with a view to contributing to the achievement of sustainable development in affected areas.”
The Convention calls for improved productivity of land and the rehabilitation, conservation and sustainable management of land and water resources in order to improve the living conditions particularly at the community level.
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3.6.4 Cartagena Protocol on Bio-safety
The Cartagena Protocol lays down rules on crops and other organisms that have been genetically modified. Under the protocol anyone exporting GMOs such as seeds, plants or fish intended for direct release into the environment will need prior permission from the importing country. Organisms intended for direct human consumption, for animal feed, or for use in food processing can be freely exported once a central biosafety clearing-house has been notified. However, the importing countries can still halt or delay a shipment by calling for a risk assessment.
3.6.5 International Plant Protection Convention
The Maldives has decided to become a party to the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC) as a step to protecting native plant species in the Maldives from the risk of diseases introduced by imported plant varieties. The Maldives adhered to the IPPC on 3 October 2006 and the Convention requires that certificates of phytosanitary condition and origin of consignments of plants and plant products be used for import and export of plants and plant materials. Contracting parties have the full authority to regulate entry of plants and plant products and may prescribe restrictions on imports or prohibit importation of particular plants or plant products.
Thus it is advisable that the developer be aware of the requirements of IPPC and obtains the necessary phytosanitary certificates before imports of plants and plant products into the country.
3.6.6 Vienna Convention and Montreal Protocol
The Montreal Protocol made it illegal for member countries to use Methyl Bromide as a fertilizer. The Montreal Protocol made it illegal for member countries to use CFC and HCFC containing refrigerators and air conditioners. The Montreal Protocol also prohibits the use of halon containing fire extinguishers. Hence the developer has to be mindful of this prohibition.
3.6.7 Male Declaration on Control and Prevention of Air Pollution and its Likely Transboundary Effects for South Asia
The objectives of Male’ Declaration includes:
• Assessing and analysing the origin and causes, nature, extent and effects of local and regional air pollution, • Developing and/or adopting strategies to prevent and minimise air pollution • Setting up monitoring arrangements beginning with the study of sulphur and nitrogen and volatile organic compounds emissions, concentrations and deposition.
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3.7 Responsible Ministries and Institutions in the Maldives
The main government institutions responsible during the planning, implementation of the project
3.7.1 Ministry of Environment & Energy
The MEE is at present mandated for the effective implementation of the Environmental Protection and Preservation Act of the country and has the statutory power over various issues related to the environment. Hence, MEE plays the main role within the government system with regard to environmental issues. It has the central control over the environment protection, management, conservation and environmental emergencies. MEE however operates mainly at a policy level and more technical and project specific assessment activities have been mandated to its sister department, the EPA. In this respect EPA has now been mandated to manage all issues relating to EIA of individual projects.
MEE also seek the advice of National Commission for the Protection of Environment (NCPE) on all significant environmental matters. The commission is appointed by the president and is mandated to advice the Minister of Environment on environmental matters such as environment assessment, planning and management, and political decisions with regard to the protection of environment.
3.7.2 Baa Atoll Council
The local authority responsible for planning controls and the development of Baa Atoll is the Atoll Council Office. The proponent shall communicate all decisions regarding the project to the Atoll Council Office located at Baa Eydhafushi.
3.7.3 Island Council
The Island council of Maalhos with its 5 elected members on a three year term, are mandated to coordinate with the government authorities on behalf of the locals. The Island council unanimously agreed upon the project term. Refer to Appendix D.
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4 EXISTING ENVIRONMENT
4.1 Physical Environment
4.1.1 Meteorology
4.1.1.1 Climate
The climate in Maldives is warm and humid, typical of the tropics. The average temperature ranges between 25°C to 30°C and relative humidity varies from 73 percent to 85 percent. The annual average rainfall is approximately 1,948mm. As Maldives lies on the equator, Maldives receives plenty of sunshine throughout the year. Significant variation is observed in the climate between the northern and the southern atolls. The annual average rainfall in the southern atolls is higher than the northern atolls. In addition, greater extremes of temperature are also recorded in the southern atolls. On average southern atolls receive 2704 hours of sunshine each year. Table 4.1 provides a summary of key meteorological findings for Maldives. The nearest meteorological station is the National Meteorological Centre in Hulhule’. This study uses National Metrological Centre at Hulhule’ Island due to availability of more comprehensive data.
Table 4.1: Key Meteorological Information of the Maldives
Parameter Data Average Rainfall 9.1mm/day in May, November; 1.1mm/day in February Maximum Rainfall 184.5 mm/day in October 1994 Average air temperature 30.0 C in November 1973; 31.7 C in April Extreme Air Temperature 34.1 C in April 1973; 17.2 C in April 1978 Average wind speed 3.7 m/s in March;5.7 m/s in January, June Maximum wind speed W 31.9 m/s in November 1978 Average air pressure 1012 mm in December; 1010 mm in April
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4.1.1.2 Monsoons The climate of Maldives is characterised by the monsoons of Indian Ocean. Monsoon wind reversal significantly affects weather patterns. Two monsoon seasons are observed in Maldives: the Northeast (Iruvai) and the Southwest (Hulhangu) monsoon. The parameters that best distinguish the two monsoons are wind and rainfall patterns. The southwest monsoon is the rainy season while the northeast monsoon is the dry season. The southwest monsoon occurs from May to September and the northeast monsoon is from December to February. The transition period of southwest monsoon occurs between March and April while that of northeast monsoon occurs from October to November.
4.1.1.3 Winds
The winds that occur across Maldives are mostly determined by the monsoon seasons. The two monsoons are considered mild given that Maldives is located close to the equator. As a result, strong winds and gales are infrequent although storms and line squalls can occur, usually in the period May to July. During stormy conditions gusts of up to 60 knots have been recorded at Male’.
Wind has been uniform in speed and direction over the past twenty-plus monsoon seasons in the Maldives (Naseer, 2003). Wind speed is usually higher in central region of Maldives during both monsoons, with a maximum wind speed recorded at 18 ms-1 for the period 1975 to 2001. Mean wind speed as highest during the months May and October in the central region. Wind analysis indicates that the monsoon is considerably stronger in central and northern region of Maldives compared to the south (Naseer, 2003).
Besides the annual monsoonal wind variations there are occasional tropical climatic disturbances (tropical storms or low intensity tropical cyclones) in the central region which increases wind speeds up to 110 km/h, precipitation to 30 to 40 cm over a 24 hour period and storm surges up to 3 m in open ocean (UNDP, 2006).
Table 4.2 summarises the wind conditions in central Maldives throughout a year. Medium term meteorological data from the National Meteorological Centre (see Figure 3.1, Figure 3.2 and Figure 3.3) and findings from long-term Comprehensive Ocean-Atmosphere Data Set (COADS) are used in this analysis.
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Table 4.2: Summary of General Wind Conditions from the National Meteorological Center
Season Month Wind NE - Monsoon December Predominantly from NW-NE. January High Speeds from W February Transition Period 1 March From all directions. Mainly W; High Speeds from W. April SW - Monsoon May Mainly from W. June High Speeds from W. July August September Transition Period 2 October Mainly from W. November High Speeds from W
Figure 4.1: Monthly Frequencies of Wind Direction in Central Maldives based on National Meteorological Center 10 year Data (adapted from Naseer, 2003).
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N NNW NNE 2500
NW 2000 NE 1500 1000 WNW ENE 500
W E
WSW ESE
SW SE
SSW SSE S
Figure 4.2: 24 Year Wind Frequency Recorded at National Meteorological Center.
Figure 4.3: Mean Daily Wind Speed and Direction Recorded at National Meteorological Centre (1978 – 2004)
The Disaster Risk Profile of Maldives (UNDP, 2006) reports 11 cyclonic events over the Maldives in the last 128 years, none of which crossed south of 2.7°N. All of these events were of category 1 cyclones. There have been no cyclonic events since 1993.
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4.1.1.4 Rainfall
The average annual rainfall for the archipelago is 2,124mm. There are regional variations in average annual rainfall: southern atolls receive approximately 2,280 mm and northern atolls receive approximately 1,790 mm annually(MEC, 2004). Mean monthly rainfall also varies substantially throughout the year with the dry season getting considerably less rainfall. This pattern is less prominent in the southern half, however. The proportions of flood and drought years are relatively small throughout the archipelago, and the southern half is less prone to drought (UNDP, 2006).
The mean annual rainfall in Hulhule’ is 1991.5 mm with a standard deviation of 316.4 mm and the mean monthly rainfall is 191.6 mm. Rainfall varies throughout the year with mean highest rainfall during October, December and May and lowest between February and April (See Figure 4.4).
Mean Monthly Rainfall in Hulhule' 250
200
150
100 Men Rainfall Men(mm) Rainfall
50
0 J F M A M J J A S O N D Month
Figure 4.4: Mean Monthly Rainfall in Hulhule’ (1975-2004)
Analysis of daily maximum annual rainfall data shows high variability; including extremes (see Figure 4.5 below). However, no significant long term trends are evident in the Hulhule data.
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Figure 4.5: Maximum daily rainfall by year in Hulhule’ (1975-2005) - (Source: Hay, 2006)
The probable maximum precipitations predicted for Hulhule’ by UNDP (2006) are shown in Table 4.3.
Table 4.3: Tidal Variations at Male’ International Airport (Source: MEC, 2004)
Station Return Period 50 year 100 year 200 year 500 year Hulhule’ 187.4 203.6 219.8 241.1 Source (UNDP, 2006)
4.1.1.5 Temperature
Daily temperatures of Maldives vary little throughout the year with a mean annual temperature of 28°C. The annual mean maximum temperature recorded for Male’ during the period 1967-1995 was 30.4°C and the annual mean minimum temperature for the same period was 25.7°C. The highest recorded temperature for Male’ was 34.1°C on 16th and 28th of April 1973. The hottest month recorded was April 1975 with a maximum monthly average temperature of 32.7°C, the next highest being 32.6°C in April 1998. The lowest minimum average temperature of 23.7°C was recorded in July 1992.
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There is considerable inter annual variability in extreme temperatures for Hulhule as shown in Figure 4.6. A maximum temperature of at least 33.5oC is rare at Hulhule and has a return period of 20 yrs (Hay, 2006).
Figure 4.6: Maximum Temperature by year in Hulhule’- 1975-2005 (Source: Hay, 2006)
4.1.2 Hydrology
4.1.2.1 Waves
There are two major types of waves observed along the islands of Maldives. The first type is wave generated by local monsoon wind with a period of 3-8 seconds and the second type is swells generated by distance storms with a period of 14-20 seconds [Kench et. al (2006), DHI(1999), Binnie Black & Veatch (2000), Lanka Hydraulics (1988a & 1998b)]. The local monsoon predominantly generates wind waves which are typically strongest during April-July in the south- west monsoon period. Wave data for Male and Hulhulé’ between June 1988 and January 1990 (Lanka Hydraulics 1988a & 1998b) shows that the maximum significant wave height (Hs) recorded for June was 1.23 m with a mean period (Tm) of 7.53s. The maximum recorded Hs for July was 1.51 m with a Tm of 7.74s. The mean wave periods were 5.0 – 9.0s and the peak wave periods were within 8.0 – 13.0s.
Maldives experiences occasional flooding caused by long distance swell waves that are generated by South Indian Ocean storms (Goda 1988). The swell waves of height 3 meters that flooded Male’ and Hulhulé’ in 1987 are said to have originated from a low pressure system off west coast of Australia (refer the next section for more detail). In addition, Maldives have recently been subject
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to earthquake generated tsunami reaching heights of 4.0m on land (UNEP, 2005). Historical wave data from Indian Ocean countries show that tsunamis have occurred in more than 1 occasion, most notable has been the 1883 tsunami resulting from the volcanic explosion of Karakatoa (Choi et al., 2003).
The estimated wave regime around Maalhos Island is presented in Figure 4.7. The island is generally expected to receive strong waves on the easter and northern reef rim during the NE monsoon, and western reef rim during SW monsoon.
More specifically, the NE monsoon is expected bring very strong waves to the eastern reef due to the presence of monsoon wind waves and swell waves. Similarly the orientation of the eastern rim of Baa Atoll will allow refracted SW monsoon waves to reach the eastern and southern reef rim.
4.1.2.2 Swell Waves and Storm Surges
Waves studies around Maldives have identified the presence of swell waves approaching predominantly from a southwest to a southerly direction Kench et. al (2006), Young (1999), DHI(1999), Binnie Black & Veatch (2000) and Naseer (2003).
The location of the island in the eastern rim of Baa Atoll exposes the island to direct impacts of SE Indian Ocean swells. As noted above, the orientation of the eastern rim of Baa Atoll allows SW Indian ocean swell waves to reach the eastern and southern rim of Maalhos reef. The timing of the long distance swell waves are associated with the South Indian Ocean storm activity Young (1999). Waves generated from abnormal events could also travel against the predominant swell propagation patterns (Goda, 1998), causing flooding on the eastern and southern islands of Maldives (UNDP, 2009).
In addition to swell waves, islands of the Maldives are also exposed to storm surges associated with localised storms and cyclonic events (UNDP 2009). The Disaster Risk Assessment report (UNDP, 2006), reported that Maalhos is located in a moderate storm surge hazard zone. The most likely direction of approach for these waves is from NE and NW.
4.1.2.3 Currents
Currents that affect the reef system of the island and the proposed project site can be caused by tidal currents, wind-induced currents and wave-induced currents. It is presumed that generally current flow through the country is defined by the two-monsoon season winds. Westward flowing currents are dominant from January to March with the change in current flow pattern taking place in April and December (Kench et. al, 2006). In April the westward currents become weak while the eastward currents start to take over. In December the eastward currents are weak with the
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In addition, wave driven currents also appear to play an important role on the ocean side reef flat, and the north and south ends of the island, particularly since there is a year round presence of swell waves.
In situ current measurements varied based on location and tide. Data on current flow is provided in Figures 4.8. Data showed an easterly flow.
These measurements should be treated with caution as it represents data for a single day and was observed only in a one hour window. Prolonged measurements over two seasons are required to provide exact values of current speed.
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Figure 4.7: Estimated wave regime around Maalhos Island
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Figure 4.8: Observed current flow patterns on the reef – from high to low tide
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4.1.2.4 Tidal Pattern
Water levels at the site vary mainly in response to tides, storm surge or tsunamis. Tides in the Maldives are mixed and semi-diurnal/diurnal. Tidal variations are referred to the standard station in at Hulhulé Island. Typical spring and neap tidal ranges are approximately 1.0m and 0.3m, respectively (MEC, 2004). Maximum spring tidal range in Hulhulé is approximately 1.1m. There is also a 0.2m seasonal fluctuation in regional mean sea level, with an increase of about 0.1m during February to April and a decrease of 0.1m during September to November. Table 4.4 summarizes the tidal elevations reported at Hulhulé, which is representative of tidal conditions at the project site.
Table 4.4: Tidal Variations at Male’ International Airport (Source: MEC, 2004)
Tide Level Referred to Mean Sea level Highest Astronomical Tide (HAT) +0.64 Mean Higher High Water (MHHW) +0.34 Mean Lower High Water (MLHW) +0.14 Mean Sea Level (MSL) 0.00 Mean Higher Low Water (MHLW) -0.16 Mean Lower Low Water (MHLW) -0.36 Lowest Astronomical Tide (LAT) -0.56
The predicted tide curve for the period for the month of August at Hulhule is presented in Figure 4.9 below.
Figure 4.9: Predicted tides for August 2012, based on data from Department of Meteorology, Maldives
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4.1.3 Beach
4.1.3.1 Beach erosion and coastal changes
Historical changes and Long-term erosion
The island coastal environment has been modified with the construction of the harbour and entrance channel (see Figure 4.10), and past coral and sand mining activities. These modifications appear to have altered the hydrodynamics and geomorphologic behaviour in localised locations around island. However, much of the island beach system continues to function well independent of the changes around the harbour.
Historical changes to the beach line can be analysed by comparing historical aerial photographs or satellite images. Analysis of historical aerial photographs from 1969 (see figure 4.11) against satellite image data from 2004, 2005, 2011 and GPS surveys of 2015 are presented in Figure 4.12.
The results show a very stable island with minimal shoreline changes in the last 45 years. Over this period the island size changed from 22.35 Ha in 1969 to 23.34 Ha in 2015. Among these 0.6 Ha was newly reclaimed land from the harbour dredge waste. Thus, medium term changes were minimal.
This assessment shows the long-term trend based on two points in temporal scale, but it discounts the periodic shifts that may have occurred in between. Assessment of recent periodic shifts is presented in Figure 4.13. The result confirm that there were no major shifts in the last 10 years.
Shore-term erosional pressures
Short-term erosion pressures have concentrated mainly on the SE side of the island and to a section north of the newly reclaimed area.
4.1.3.2 Beach profiles
Beach profiles for the island are presented in Appendix F.
4.1.4 Marine water quality assessment
The primary objective of the lagoon water quality sampling was to determine the baseline conditions of the marine water around the project site. Water samples were collected from two locations. All water quality tests were done at the MWSC laboratory.
The following table shows (see Table 4.5) the test results of the marine water samples collected on 17th November 2015. Laboratory results are attached in Appendix G.
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Table 4.5: Marine water quality assessment results from MWSC laboratory
Optimal Range Results Parameter (EPA) SW1 SW2 Physical appearance Clear Clear pH 8.0 – 8.3 8.13 8.23
o Salinity ( /oo) 34.78 34.34 Nitrate (mg/L) <5 4.2 5.4 Phosphate (mg/L) 0.005 – 0.020 0.05 <0.05(LoQ0.05mg/L) Total Suspended Solids (mg/l) - <5 (LoQ5mg/L) <5(LoQ5mg/L) Biological Oxygen Demand (mg/l) <2 1 1 Nitrogen Ammonia 0.134 0.11 Turbidity 0.770 0.663 Sulphate 3200 3350 Marine water qualities for majority of the parameters tested appear to be within acceptable ranges at all sites. Phosphate level is slightly higher that the optimum level.
4.1.5 Ground water
Ground water quality was assessed by taking samples from 1 location during the field visit. Samples were collected in one 1500 ml clean PET bottle, 1 Glass bottle and 1 sterile bag to test for all the parameters. Samples in the PET bottles were collected after washing the bottle with the sample to be collected. Geographical coordinates of all locations were recorded using a differential GPS. Time and date of sampling was also recorded. All samples were kept at 4 degree Celsius and sent to MWSC laboratory for analysis.
Table 4.6: Results for water quality testing for ground water.
Optimal Range (EPA) Results Parameter (WHO guideline- drinking water)) W1 pH 6.5-8.5 7.28 Temperature (oC) 22.1 o Salinity ( /oo) 0.44 Nitrates (mg/l) < 50 0.5 Phosphates (mg/l) - 0.38 Ammonium (mg/l) 1.5 0.28 Sulphate (mg/l) < 250 70 BOD - 2 COD 0.3 3.16 Faecal Coliforms >2420 TSS 18 TPH < 0.1 0.13 * Test was not available at MWSC laboratory
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Figure 4.10: Coastal modofications in Maalhos
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Figure 4.11: Geocorrected Aerial map of Maalhos
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Figure 4.12: Comparison of medium-term shoreline changes in Maalhos between 1969 and 2015
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Figure 4.13: Comparison of short-term shoreline changes in Maalhos
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4.1.6 Bathymetry
A detailed bathymetric survey of the proposed project site was undertaken during November 2015. Survey results have been summarised in bathy charts Appendix H. The depth figures presented are in meters below MSL.
The reef flat areas are very shallow ranging between -0.9 and -1.6 m MSL. There is not much variation within the surveyed project foot print. The average depth at the dredging location is -1.1 m MSL.
4.2 Biological Environment
4.2.1 Terrestrial Ecology
4.2.1.1 Flora
General Characteristics
The proposed project site (futsal pitch area) on Baa Maalhos is a relatively small area that has well established vegetation system with multiple access routes inside the area.
Most of the vegetation present consists of coconut palms (Cocos nucifera) and other common species such as Magoo (Scaevola taccada) and Boa-kashikeyo (Pandanus tectoris). The rest of the species are found in very few numbers.
The area has not been used by the public for other than the occasional collection of firewood and nuts.
No unique trees, (very old trees or vegetation groups) were observed on the island. However, locals did express their concerns to relocate of some of the larger shade trees where possible and feasible for the contractor.
An inventory of the flora found at the project site in Baa Maalhos is presented in Table 4.7.
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4.2.1.2 Vegetation Types
For the purposes of this assessment, the major groups of vegetation can be classed into the following categories of vegetation and land use. The main reason for this adoption is the specific nature of vegetation in small coral islands. However, due to the relatively small area of the proposed project, the entire area can be classified as one vegetation system as following:
1. Coconut Dominated Forest: Dense forest of palms (Cocos nucifera) found at the area, with the occasional hardwood species and some ground cover species.
Vegetation classification was undertaken using remote sensing and GIS software based on the methodology outlined at the start of this section. Ground-truthing along with treks in the area were used to do an exact count of the species and their numbers.
Figure 4.14: The canopy is dominated by Coconut palms (Cocos nucifera)
Figure 4.15: The site viewed from the North-west
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Figure 4.16: Locals use the area frequently to collect nuts
4.2.1.3 Fauna
General Characteristics
The proposed project site in Baa Maalhos has a very low level of faunal biodiversity present, mostly due to its small size and the presence of the surrounding urban settlement. As the occurrence fauna was found to be minimal during the brief survey period, faunal survey was carried out based on similar conditions found elsewhere in the Maldives, and local accounts on species found at the location.
An inventory of the fauna found at the proposed project site in Baa Maalhos is presented in Table 4.8.
Birds
The area does not seem to be an area of significant importance for birds as the no sea-faring birds were observed at the project site. The only land-faring birds observed at this site was the Kaalhu (Corvus Linnaeus) and the Koveli (Eudynamys scolopaceus) species.
Reptiles and Mammals
Records of reptiles and mammals are minimal. The only mammal recorded at the site was the fruit bat (Pteropus giganteus ariel) species and the only terrestrial reptile to be recorded at the site is the Common garden lizard (Calotes versicolor). No other reptiles or mammals were recorded at the site.
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Crustaceans and Amphibians
No crustaceans or Amphibians were recorded at the proposed project site in Baa Maalhos.
4.2.1.4 Pest & Diseases
Pest and diseases found at the project location were identified during the floral and faunal assessment walks.
An inventory of the pest and diseases found on at the project site in Baa Maalhos is presented in Table 4.9.
Pests
No animal pests such as the common rat (Rattus norvegicus) were observed at the site.
No significant floral insect pests, such the Coconut hispine beetle (Brontispa longissima) and the Rhinocerous beetle (Oryctes rhinoceros) were observed at this area.
Mosquitoes (Culicoidea family, genus Unknown) were a frequent nuisance in the area due to the dense vegetation present in the area. This is likely to be reduced once the site is cleared for the futsal pitch.
Diseases
No floral diseases were observed at the site.
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Table 4.7: Flora inventory of proposed project site
Name Ethnobotanical Aspects Remar # Quantity ks Family Scientific English Dhivehi General Uses Medicinal Uses Potential Uses 317 (varying Multiple Uses, timber, Coconut Virgin Coconut Oil sizes, 1 Arecaceae Cocos nucifera Dhivehi ruh fruit, toddy, thatch - - palm Production mostly making…etc medium to small) Procesed nut Combretacea Country 2 Terminalia catappa Midhili Timber, Nuts (expensive) - fetches high 2 - e almond prices 3 - Artocarpus communis Breadfruit Banbukeyo Crop production - - 1 - 4 Malvaceae Thespesia populnea Portia tree Hirundhu Timber, firewood, - - 4 - Red bead 5 Mimosaceae Adenanthera pavonina Madhoshi Timber, beads, - - 1 - tree Musa 6 Musaceae Banana Tree Faiykeyo gas Edible fruit - - 4 - paradisiacesapientum diabetes, blood pressure, arthritis, High value crop 7 Rubiaceae Morinda citrifolia Noni Ahi - muscle pain, for medicine 3 - menstrual making problems..etc Pandanacea Erosion control, wind 8 Pandanus tectoris Screw pine Boa kashikeyo - - 5 - e break Plant is edible, but Amarantace Hudhu Treatment in snake 9 Aerva lanata Pot pata - not eaten in * - ae huiyppilaa bites Maldives 10 Compositae Wedelia calendulacea - Mirihi - - - * - 11 Turneraceae Turnera ulmifolia Yellow alder Bakari-nukaa - - - * -
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Table 4.8: Fauna Inventory for the proposed project site at Baa Maalhos
Name(s) IUCN Red Distribution # Category List Remarks Class Order Family Species English Dhivehi (ACFOR) (Category) Crustaceans - Protected Eudynamys Asian Cuculiformes Cuculidae Koveli 11th July 1 scolopaceus koel R LC 1999, 10- Birds Aves C/99/24 Corvus 2 Passeriformes Corvidae Crow Kaalhu C LC - linnaeus Common Unlisted Calotes 3 Reptiles Reptilia Squamata Agamidae garden Bondu F (proposed - versicolor lizard LC) Pteropus Indian Unlisted Chiroptera Pteropodidae giganteus Flying Vaa C (proposed 4 Mammals Mammilia - ariel Fox LC)
Amphibians Amphibia ------NOTE: ACFOR: A: Abundant; C: Common; F: Frequent; O: Occasional; R: Rare IUCN: EX: Extinct; EW: Extinct in the wild; CR: Critically endangered; EN: Endangered; VU: Vulnerable; NT: Near Threatened; LC: Least Concern; DD: Data deficient; NE: Not evaluated
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Table 4.9: Inventory of Pest and Diseases observed at the proposed project site in Baa Maalhos
Name(s) Distrib Catego ution Host Species / # Remarks ry Class Order Family Species English Dhivehi (ACFO areas R) General 1 - - Unidentified Ants Hini (kalhu) C - Environment General 2 - - Unidentified Spiders Makunu O - Environment Pests Insecta Invasive General if 3 Diptera Culicoidea Unidentified Mosquito Madhiri A Environment / unattende water bodies d Disease ------s
NOTE: ACFOR: A: Abundant; C: Common; F: Frequent; O: Occasional; R: Rare
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4.2.2 Marine Environment
Marine assessments were carried out from 14th November 2015, the sea was calm and the sky was partially cloudy during the survey. The main objectives of this assessment were:
1. to determine the general status of the reef associated with the island 2. to assess the condition of the marine environment which will be directly impacted by the project 3. to determine the fish species abundance and composition of the reef system
The following sub-sections provide details site, the methodology adapted for this assessment and the results.
4.2.2.1 Transect site-1 (proposed sand borrow site)
This transect was deployed at 2 m depth, along the reef edge on the northern side of the island, at the proposed sand borrow area. The visibility at the time of the survey at this site was good extending more than 10 m. The top reef is predominantly made up of hard rock (66.5%), and coral rubble (16.5%). Live coral coverage was very low at this site (3.5%), only few massive type corals were observed along the transect.
A total of 24 fish species belonging to 11 different fish families were recorded during the fish census. The most abundant fish species observed was Sergeant Majors (Abudefduf vaigiensis) which predominantly feeds on zooplanktons and algae. Highest number of species was recorded from Butterflyfish family (4 species), and Surgeonfish family (4 species).
Figure 4.17: Select images showing variety of coral species along transect 1
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Figure 4.18: Benthic substrate composition along transect 1
80 66.5 70 60 50 40 30
% Cover Benthic 16.5 20 10 10 3.5 1 2.5 0 Live Coral Other Live Recently Dead Rock Coral Rubble Sand Dead Coral
Table 4.10: Fish census data for summary for transect 1
Genus Species Common Name Abun. GROUPERS Cephalopholis Cephalopholis argus Peacock Rock Cod 1 Aethaloperca Aethaloperca rogaa Red-flushed grouper 1 Anyperedon Anyperodon leucogrammicus White-lined Grouper 1 BASSLETS Nemanthias Nemanthias carberryi Threadfin Basslet 2 SNAPPERS Lutjanus Lutjanus bohar Red Bass (Red Snapper) 2 BUTTERFLYFISHES Hemitaurichthys Hemitaurichthys zoster Black Pyramid Butterflyfish 2 Chaetodon Chaetodon lunula Racoon Butterflyfish 2 Chaetodon Chaetodon trifasciatus Pinstriped Butterflyfish 1 Chaetodon Chaetodon oxycephalus Pig-face Butterflyfish 1 ANGELFISHES Pomacanthus Pomacanthus imperator Emperor Angelfish 2 DAMSELFISHES Pomacentrus Pomacentrus indicus Indian Damsel 2 Abudefduf Abudefduf vaigiensis Sergeant Major 5 WRASSES Labrichthys Labrichthys unilineatus Tube-mouth Wrasse 2 Thalassoma Thalassoma hardwicke Six-bar Wrasse 2 Hologymnosus Hologymnosus anuulatus Ringed Wrasse 2 PARROTFISHES Cetoscarus Cetoscarus bicolor Two-colour Parrotfish 2 Hipposcarus Hipposcarus harid Longnose Parrotfish 2
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Scarus Scarus sordidus Shabby Parrotfish 2 SURGEONFISHES Acanthurus Acanthurus leucosternon Powder-blue Surgeonfish 2 Ctenchaetus Ctenochaetus striatus Fine-lined Bristletooth 2 Zebrasoma Zebrasoma scopas Brown Tang 2 Naso Naso hexacanthus Sleek Unicornfish 2 RABBITFISHES Siganus Siganus corallinus Coral Rabbitfish 2 TRIGGERFISHES Pseudobalistes Pseudobalistes flavimarginatus Yellow-margin Triggerfish 2 SEA CUCUMBER Pearsonothuria Pearsonothuria graeffei Graeffe's sea cucumber 2 SEA STARS Culcita Culcita schmedeliana Schmedelian pin-cushion sea star 2
4.2.2.2 Transect site-2 (control site)
This transect was deployed at 2 m depth, along the reef edge to the western side of the island. Predominant benthic substrate recorded was dead rock, coral rubble, and sand (73.5%). Live coral coverage was low (15%), and only hardy coral types (massive, short-thick branched) were observed at this site.
A total 21 fish species belonging to 9 fish families were recorded during the fish census at this site. Similar to the previous site the highest number of fish species were recorded from the Silver Sprat and Blue Sprats, which are both bait fishes.
Figure 4.19 Select images showing benthic substrate cover along transect 2
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Figure 4.20: Benthic substrate composition and coral genera composition along transect 2
50 38 45 40 35 22.5 30 25 13 20 15
% Cover Benthic 15 9 10 5 2.5 0 Live Coral Old Dead Coral Recently Dead Dead Rock Coral Rubble Sand Coral
Table 4.11: Fish census data summary for transect 2
Genus Species Common Name Abun. GROUPERS Cephalopholis Cephalopholis argus Peacock Rock Cod 1 Aethaloperca Aethaloperca rogaa Red-flushed grouper 1 Anyperedon Anyperodon leucogrammicus White-lined Grouper 1 BASSLETS Nemanthias Nemanthias carberryi Threadfin Basslet 2 SNAPPERS Lutjanus Lutjanus bohar Red Bass (Red Snapper) 2 BUTTERFLYFISHES Hemitaurichthys Hemitaurichthys zoster Black Pyramid Butterflyfish 2 Chaetodon Chaetodon lunula Racoon Butterflyfish 2 Chaetodon Chaetodon trifasciatus Pinstriped Butterflyfish 2 Chaetodon Chaetodon oxycephalus Pig-face Butterflyfish 2 ANGELFISHES Pomacanthus Pomacanthus imperator Emperor Angelfish 2 DAMSELFISHES Pomacentrus Pomacentrus indicus Indian Damsel 2 Abudefduf Abudefduf vaigiensis Sergeant Major 5 WRASSES Labrichthys Labrichthys unilineatus Tube-mouth Wrasse 2 Thalassoma Thalassoma hardwicke Six-bar Wrasse 2 Hologymnosus Hologymnosus anuulatus Ringed Wrasse 2 PARROTFISHES Cetoscarus Cetoscarus bicolor Two-colour Parrotfish 2 Hipposcarus Hipposcarus harid Longnose Parrotfish 2 Scarus Scarus sordidus Shabby Parrotfish 2
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SURGEONFISHES Acanthurus Acanthurus leucosternon Powder-blue Surgeonfish 2 Ctenchaetus Ctenochaetus striatus Fine-lined Bristletooth 2 Zebrasoma Zebrasoma scopas Brown Tang 2 Naso Naso hexacanthus Sleek Unicornfish 2 RABBITFISHES Siganus Siganus corallinus Coral Rabbitfish 2 TRIGGERFISHES Pseudobalistes Pseudobalistes flavimarginatus Yellow-margin Triggerfish 2 SEA CUCUMBER Pearsonothuria Pearsonothuria graeffei Graeffe's sea cucumber 2 SEA STARS Culcita Culcita schmedeliana Schmedelian pin-cushion sea star 2
4.2.2.3 Visual Snorkelling Survey
Visual snorkelling surveys were carried out at select locations of the lagoon.
4.2.2.4 Site 1 – proposed sand borrow area
This site is located on the reef flat to the northern side of the island; at the proposed sand borrow area. The depth at this site varied between 0.5 – 1 m. The seabed at the site is mainly made up of rock and rubble (50%), sand made up about 30% of the site.
Overall coral life at the site was poor, and only few coral recruits were observed. Fish life was also very poor at the site.
Figure 4.21: The bottom is made up of mainly made up of rock and rubble
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4.2.2.5 Site 2 – near the proposed sand borrow site
This site is located to the north of the island, near the proposed sand borrow site. The depth along the reef flat varied between 0.5 to 1.5 m. Predominant benthic substrate observed was coral rubble and rock. No live coral colonies were observed, and fish life was very poor.
Figure 4.22: Benthic substrate is mainly made up of coral rubble and rock
4.2.2.6 Site 3 – control site
This site is located to the north east of the island. The depth along the reef flat varied between 0.5 to 1 m. Predominant benthic substrate observed was rock and coral rubble. Few massive coral colonies were observed within this area, and overall fish life was poor.
Figure 4.23: Dominant benthic substrate at this site is rock and rubble
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4.2.3 Marine protected areas and sensitive sites
The nearest Marine Protected Area (MPA) to Maalhos is Hanifaru, located approximately 5.8 km NE of Maalhos. In addition, Baa Atoll is the only dedicated biosphere reserve in the Maldives.
Given the distance, it is highly unlikely that the project at Maalhos will have any significant impact on Hanifaru or other sensitive areas in Baa atoll. All mitigation measures outlined in this report must be taken to avoid, and reduce adverse impact on the island and its reef system of Maalhos.
4.2.4 Breeding or nursery grounds for protected or endangered species
All coral reef areas have the potential to be used as breeding/nurseries for reef fishes. No literature is available to indicate that reef system of Maalhos is used as breeding/nursery for fishes, crustaceans, marine mammals, sharks or turtles. Further studies are required to determine the specificity of the sites.
4.3 Natural Hazard Assessment for the Site
According to the UNDP Disaster Risk Assessment Report of Maldives in 2006, Maalhos Island is located in an area exposed windstorms, storm surges, swell waves and to tsunamis. It does not identify the island as being exposed to heavy rainfall flooding. The following parameters can be deduced for the Maalhos region based on Disaster Assessment Report and the Detailed Island Risk Assessment Reports (UNDP, 2009).
Tsunami: Maximum probable wave height range 0.8-2.50
Cyclone or storm (wind): Probable maximum wind speed 84.2 knots (category 2 cyclone).
Storm surge: predicted storm surge height – 0.45; predicted storm tide height 1.38.
Rainfall: probable maximum daily rainfall for Hanimaadhoo for a 500 year return period 175.6 mm
Based on these parameters and field surveys (primarily reef depths and topography), the methodology for risk assessment identified in the Detailed Island Risk Assessment Reports (UNDP, 2009) was used to assess the hazard risks on the site. However, the results should be treated with caution as this is a preliminary risk assessment. A more comprehensive assessment will require a longer time frame and a lot of data, which is beyond the scope of this EIA.
In general, due to its low elevation, Maalhos is exposed to the predicted severe intensity flooding events, particularly storm surges, swell waves and tsunami. The probability swell waves are high
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Table 4.12 Predicted disaster risks in Maalhos
Hazard Max Impact thresholds Probability of Occurrence Predictio (based on UNDP 2009) (based on UNDP 2006) n (based on UNDP 2006) Low Modera Severe Low Moderat Severe te e Impact Impact Impact Swell Waves/storm surges 1.4m < 1.2 m > 1.2 m > 2.0m High Moderat Low e (wave heights on reef flat – Average Island ridge height +1.4 m above reef flat) Tsunami 2.5m <1.5m > 1.5 m > 2.0m Moderat Low Very e low (wave heights on reef flat) SW monsoon high seas 0.5m <1.2m > 1.2 m > 2.0m High Very low Unlikel y
Heavy Rainfall 175mm <60mm > 60mm >175m High Moderat Low m e (For a 24 hour period) Wind storm 84.2 knots <30 > 30 > Very High Moder knts knts 45Knts High ate
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4.4 Island Social Socio-Economic Setting
4.4.1 Baa Atoll socio-economic setup
4.4.1.1 Demographics
Baa Atoll consists of 13 inhabited islands and 60 uninhabited islands distributed over approximately 37.6 km by 35.2 km area (see map below). Of them 8 islands have been converted to tourist resorts. Eydhafushi island is the capital of the atoll. As stipulated in the Decentralization Act (7/2010), the atoll is governed by the Atoll Council and every island has an island council of minimum 5 members each. Three administrative regions constitute the councils of Baa toll; Eydhafushi region, Kendhoo region and Thulhaadhoo region. Six elected councillors from these three regions represent the Atoll council of Baa atoll.
According to the Atoll office, population of Baa atoll by January 2012 constituted 13, 171 people (Atoll office). In 2006, Baa atoll had a population of 8,893 people residing in 13 islands (MPND 2006). There are 2 major population centers in the atoll; Eydhafushi the Capital Island and Thulhaadhoo. Together they account for 47% of the atoll population (See Table 4.13). Rest of the islands of Baa atoll have populations below 1000, of which 6 of the inhabited islands have populations below 500 in each island, often an indicator of poor economic progress in these islands.
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Table 4.13 Population of Baa Atoll (MPDN 2006)
4.4.1.2 Housing
There are 1268 households in Baa atoll with an average household size of 7 persons per household. Housing conditions are generally good throughout the atoll (MPND, 2006).
4.4.1.3 Education
There is a government school in every island except Fehendhoo. Except for Fehendhoo and Fulhadhoo, education up to year 10 lower secondary level is available in all the inhabited islands. Higher secondary education up to year 12 is available in Eydhafushi and Hithaadhoo. In 2013, there were 122 males and 112 females completing year 10 lower secondary schooling in Baa atoll. High youth school leavers create opportunities for youth internship, training and employment options within the atoll. Eydhafushi is recognized amongst islands best for education in Baa atoll.
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4.4.1.4 Health
The Atoll Hospital is located in Eydhafushi, the Atoll Capital. The nearest Regional Hospital is in Raa Atoll Ugoofaaru. Smaller islands have health posts or health centers generally and hence have to travel to nearby islands for medical treatment. Baa atoll is within close proximity to the capital City Male’, making it easier for people to access health care in Male’. Dharanvadhoo airport is within 15 minutes access to Male’ city and a 2 hours speed boat ride to reach Male’ city.
4.4.1.5 Transport
Baa atoll has an airport in Dharavandhoo island which came in to operation in 2012. The time between Male’ city and Dharanvandhoo is approximately 15 minute, easing the transport time and pressure for the inhabited islands, the 8 operational resorts and other islands in Baa atoll. Baa atoll also connects Male’ city and the atoll by public speedboat ferries connected by a 2 hour speed boat ride from Eydhafushi.
4.4.1.6 Employment
In the past, the main economic activities in Baa Atoll had been fishing. Over the past two decades, Baa atoll has seen significant development in the tourism sector. There are 8 operational resorts in the island, which also caters for some of the most luxurious resorts in the Maldives. This has benefitted the island significantly in terms of employment in tourism sector and tourism related work. According to Census 2006 employment data, the largest sector representation of employment in Baa atoll was in hotels and restaurants (20%) (see table below).
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Table 4.14: Employment by Economic Activities in Baa Atoll (source: MPND, 2006)
Locality And stated
Total trade Sex water Fishing services services Forestry Not Quarrying Quarrying Agriculture, Agriculture, Construction Manufacturing communication Electricity, gas, gas, Electricity, Whole sale, retail Finance, business business Finance, Hotels, restaurants Transport, storage, storage, Transport, Community, social social Community, South Maalhosmadulu 3,601 116 354 18 884 30 283 213 723 59 0 86 140 (B) Kudarikilu 124 6 22 1 37 1 5 7 1 2 0 2 10 Kamadhoo 104 11 5 0 38 0 12 4 1 3 0 5 3 Kendhoo 255 2 45 4 89 2 18 15 7 5 0 9 8 Kihaadhoo 126 8 11 0 56 2 1 3 5 2 0 2 16 Dhonfanu 122 0 16 0 30 0 3 4 38 2 0 3 3 Dharavandhoo 244 20 7 0 50 4 15 25 27 4 0 9 11 Maalhos 184 3 6 0 80 1 27 12 9 6 0 3 9 Eydhafushi 742 12 63 7 170 9 49 76 52 16 0 28 31 Thulhaadhoo 408 2 68 4 120 5 21 37 22 8 0 9 15 Hithaadhoo 267 15 37 1 108 3 11 9 7 3 0 4 18 Fulhadhoo 83 0 34 0 23 1 0 3 0 0 0 2 4 Fehendhoo 63 1 17 1 10 0 0 5 0 4 0 5 5 Goidhoo 203 36 23 0 66 2 11 13 0 1 0 3 7
4.4.1.7 Maalhos Island
In 2006, Maalhos had a total registered population of 392 (Atoll council). The total number of households in Maalhos during the time of Census 2006 was 110. (MPND 2006). The government school in Maalhos provides education through primary up to lower secondary year 10 level. Health service in Maalhos is provided by a health center and 1 pharmacy with 1 doctors.
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5 IMPACTS PREDICTION
5.1 Introduction
The tree removal and road clearance is anticipated to cause detrimental as well as beneficial impacts. Impact identification (environmental/social/economic impacts) was primarily based on literature reviews, professional judgment and past experience from similar projects.
5.2 Overall Positive Impacts
Ideally an agricultural product such as this project brings in various positive influences on the socio-economic environment. Some of these positive impacts include:
• Economic development fostered • Flood hazard for island is reduced with maintenance of roads • Increased awareness on environmental issues and environment profile raised • Paves way for further development with new roads leading to new housing plots • Dhigufaru Island could be completed and open for business at earliest creating job opportunities for locals • Guest satisfaction improved
5.3 Impact Identification
Impacts on the environment from various activities of the proposed vegetation clearance have been identified through a consultative process with the project development team, field surveys, observations and assessment, public consultations as well as based on field experience of similar development projects in the country. Analogous research data have been used wherever possible since the use of such data is applicable and less time consuming.
Possible negative impacts on the environment have been considered in worst-case scenario to recommend mitigation measures in the best possible ways so that these impacts would be minimized and perhaps eliminated in both constructional and operational phases.
This EIA identifies and quantifies the significance of adverse impacts on the environment from the proposed project. Impacts on the environment were identified and described according to their location/attribute, extent (magnitude) and characteristics (such as short-term or long term, direct or indirect, reversible or irreversible) and assessed in terms of their significance according to the following categories:
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• Negligible – the impact is too small to be of any significance; • Minor adverse – the impact is undesirable but accepted; • Moderate adverse – the impact give rise to some concern but is likely to be tolerable in short-term (e.g. construction phase) or will require a value judgment as to its acceptability; • Major adverse – the impact is large scale giving rise to great concern; it should be considered unacceptable and requires significant change or halting of the project.
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Table 5.1: Evaluation of key impacts from the implementation of the project
Compone Potential Impacts Nature/ Distribution/ Reversibility Significance nt Duration/ Magnitude Ambient Air quality degradation - Negligible Direct/ negative; Negligible effects. Insignificant - Negligible level air level of air emissions during 200m radius project of emissions over a short time transportation and operation of site; period. machinery. Dust nuisance during site Short term; preparation. No change.
Ambient Noise pollution - Operation of Direct/ negative; Easily reversible. Insignificant - Limited hours of noise machinery 200m radius from operation. project site; Short term - intermittent; Minor negative change. Groundwa Contamination of groundwater -. Direct/ negative; Irreversible - due to the absence of Significant - due to the ter Groundwater is the main source of Project site; impermeable layers to separate the potential to contaminate the water for non-potable purposes. Fuel Long term; freshwater lens in independent whole aquifer. and other chemicals will be used Major negative reservoirs.Any point sources of during construction. Accidental spill change. pollution would cause the of such chemicals has the potential to contamination of the entire island contaminate groundwater. groundwater resources. Soil Soil nutrient levels will change as Direct/ negative; Reversible. Insignificant – Use of the vegetation is removed. Project site; project site is being converted Short term; for other purposes, and will not Minor negative impact the overall soil nutrient change. level of the island. Pollution due to waste - Moderate Direct/ - Reversible with costly implications. Significant - However the amounts of green waste will be Island level; waste produced burnt in island generated and waste oil, chemical Short to medium term; waste management site
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Compone Potential Impacts Nature/ Distribution/ Reversibility Significance nt Duration/ Magnitude containers that will require special Moderate negative handling. change. Marine Contamination of marine; During Direct/negative; Reversible - Significant - High water dredging it is anticipated that sediment Project site; sedimentation level degrades plumes will be generated this will Short term; the overall water quality, and is degrade the overall quality of marine Negative change. a major stressor on the marine water ecology. Marine Loss of marine flora and fauna - in Direct/negative; Reversible with costly implications Moderately Insignificant - Flora and proposed dredge area. Increased Project site; Long Permanent alternation of Fauna turbidity and sedimentation during term; marine habitat along project dredging will harm the bottom Moderate negative foot print of the dredging area dwelling Holothuroids, other fish change species and corals Coastal Coastal erosion: Creation of sediment Dir/negative/cumulati Reversible with maintenance Moderately insignificant in Processes sinks alter the movement of sand ve activities and erosion mitigation terms of erosion as the dredge eastern shoreline; area has been set back to 30 m. Shore-term; Minor negative Employme Increase in employment Direct/positive; NA Insignificant - Short term nt opportunities; 16 workers will be Island level; employment opportunity, employed for the construction work. Short term; Moderate positive change
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5.3.1 Waste resulting in Air, Land and Marine Pollution
5.3.1.1 Air Emissions
Excavators and vehicles used during project implementation would also emit small amounts of products of fuel combustion, including oxides of nitrogen, carbon monoxide, sulphur dioxide and particulate matter.
The emission for this project is expected to be negligible due to the small scale of the project.
5.3.1.2 Soil Contamination The potential contamination sources identified during the construction stage includes fuel (diesel and Petrol), oil and waste oil. Potential impacts within areas used for minor fuel and oil activities are typically limited to shallow soils within the immediate surrounding area. However, there always remain the potential for these elements seep into the groundwater lens causing contamination in ground water. Impacts on ground water are addressed separately.
Appropriate measures will be taken in the design to prevent the occurrence of any oil, fuel or chemical spill. These include construction of bund walls for the oil storage facilities and leak proof any supply lines. In addition, it is recommended that detailed contaminated land investigations be undertaken in the unlikely event of a contamination.
5.3.1.3 Solid Waste disposal It is estimated that a large amount of green waste will be generated. This would be replanted (see section below), burnt in the island waste management area or if possible used as firewood.
Hence, strict measures need to be considered on deposition and monitoring of the refuse as well as other materials produced during the construction phase. Haphazard deposition of waste could destroy several habitats and microhabitats that are crucial for the dynamic island environment.
5.3.2 Terrestrial Flora and Fauna
5.3.2.1 Mobilization of equipment and labour Lack of awareness or concern to preserve the environment may lead to deliberate or inadvertent damages to the trees in order to speed up their work. A qualified supervisor with experience in island setting must always be present with the labourers.
5.3.2.2 Removal of Vegetation Removal of vegetation will be the main impact for flora and fauna.
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The clearing of vegetation will generally lead to temporary soil erosion during heavy rainfall, loss of habitats for faunal life and replacement of the natural vegetation system.
The vegetation removal will also create a large amount of green waste which would need to be disposed within the island.
Loss of trees also involves loss of forestry resources.
The positive impacts of the removal include the increased recharge rate of groundwater system, the potential enlargement of groundwater lens and the socio-economic benefits of having a futsal pitch on the island.
5.3.2.3 Impacts on terrestrial fauna In the absence of adequate data on the faunal species of Maalhos it would not be appropriate to draw conclusions on detailed impacts on the fauna. However, general impacts could be identified through experience in such activities. Generally, any clearing of vegetation will either displace or eliminate certain animals since their habitats are destroyed. The clearings combined with heavy machinery operation may temporarily force them to look for alternative sites. Owing to the observed lack of faunal life, the impacts have initially being assessed as negligible.
5.3.2.4 Noise and Vibration
The types of noise generated from the project are unlikely to affect fauna in adjacent habitat, although monitoring of impacts on significant species of other elements of the development, such as water quality and habitat disturbance due to the operation of roads or pathways, could include an element of monitoring of the impacts of noise on selected species.
There is potential for noise and/or vibration to affect fauna. The effects of noise exposure on fauna are not well understood. It is generally noted that most fauna, both terrestrial and marine, are initially startled by the onset of a new noise but that habituation to the noise is fairly swift. The long-term effects of noise exposure on fauna are not known despite many studies having been carried out (e.g. on the effects on breeding patterns and birth-rates of migratory birds). These studies have generally proved inconclusive.
There are schools and mosques within a 120 m radius from the project site. There are also houses with in a 50 m radius from the site. These sites may be affected during certain times, particularly in terms of vibration and noise.
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5.3.3 Health and Safety
5.3.3.1 Working Conditions The working conditions in the proposed project site are expected to conform to national standards.
The noise levels inside the power generation and desalination building would be minimized by appropriate measures. Staff would not be required to work for long hours inside these premises and would be provided with hearing protection gear if necessary.
Fire safety equipment will be located appropriately and staff will be trained to use the equipment.
5.3.4 Impacts from lagoon dredging
5.3.4.1 Smothering of Corals and reduced light to marine organisms
Siltation and sedimentation of the lagoon waters that lead to smothering of corals and reduced light to marine organisms are expected from dredging activities.
A significant amount of siltation and sedimentation of the lagoon waters is anticipated. Similarly, increased turbidity of the lagoon water is expected. These factors will cause adverse impacts such as smothering of corals and reduced light penetration to the coral and benthic communities. Under normal circumstances, corals have a self-cleansing mechanism and can withstand a certain rate of sedimentation. Hence, detrimental impacts such as reduced coral growth and recruitment rate and decreased visibility can be short term effects. However, if the sedimentation exceeds the rate at which corals can self-clean then it may lead to serious detrimental impacts such as coral mortality and alteration of habitat and species composition within the lagoon.
However, proper mitigation measures needs to be implemented to avoid siltation, sedimentation and turbidity as much as possible.
5.3.4.2 Changes in Hydrodynamics
During dredging works there is a high likelihood of abrupt changes to coastal hydrodynamics. This may lead to temporary erosion on the island and changes to coral growth. Of particular concern is the immediate severe erosion that may follow these activities as the coastal process tries to adjust to the changes. Dredging the lagoon will increase the depth within the area and is likely to cause strong wave activity due to this increase in water depth leading to erosion. Further, the dredged areas are likely to act as sediment sinks and therefore lagoon conditions may take a number of years to stabilise against the prevailing conditions.
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6 SIGNIFICANT IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES
6.1 Natural Environment
6.1.1 Contamination of Groundwater
Project activities with the potential to contaminate groundwater during construction stage are:
• Handling and storage of chemicals such as fuel, paint and other chemicals;
The water test results suggest that the ground water of Maalhos Island suits the standards of freshwater and is suitable to be household use.
In the Maldives, groundwater contamination can be an irreversible impact due to the absence of impermeable layers to separate the freshwater lens in independent reservoirs. Accordingly, any point sources of pollution could cause the contamination of the entire island groundwater resources. Good quality of groundwater is crucial as groundwater is the main source of water for non-potable purposes such as bathing and washing. Furthermore, contamination of groundwater will force the local community to rely on rainwater for all purposes. Rainwater harvesting and storage capacity of typical communities are insufficient for year round consumption of drinking alone. Hence, if rainwater is to be used for other purposes, rainwater harvesting and storage capacity of the island has to be increased. Alternatively, piped desalinated water has to be introduced which is a costly option.
Mitigation Measures
Table 6.1 Mitigation measures to mitigate ground water contamination
Significant Responsible Mitigation measures Cost impact party Construction activities will be carried out Included in Contractor under the supervision of a suitably contract value experienced person. Contamination Workforce will be briefed on good practices Included in Contractor of prior to commencement of work. contract value groundwater A sealed area will be prepared on-site for Included in Contractor storage and handling of fuel, paint and contract value chemicals.
6.1.2 Pollution due to Waste
Waste is expected to be generated from the following project activities:
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• Green waste from vegetation clearing from the project area; • Municipal waste by the workforce;
Green waste is expected to be produced in large amounts. Hazardous waste such as waste oil, empty chemical containers is expected to be very low. However, hazardous waste required special handling.
Furthermore, inappropriate handling and management of hazardous waste can cause health risk to those working at the island waste disposal site. Groundwater can also be contaminated by hazardous waste unless stored and disposed carefully. All waste generated, stored, transferred and disposed must be accounted for through appropriate means in order to ensure project-related waste are managed properly.
Mitigation Measures
Table 6.2: Mitigation measures for pollution due to waste
Significant Responsible Mitigation measures Cost impact party Green waste will be burned at the local waste Included in Contractor management area contract value Pollution of Construction waste and hazardous waste will Included in Contractor due to waste be sorted and stockpiled in designated areas contract value until removal from the island during demobilization.
6.1.3 Marine Water Contamination
During dredging any accidental spill of oil and toxic substances will contaminate the marine and/or groundwater.
Furthermore, significant quantities of siltation and sedimentation will occur during dredging the eastern side for backfill material.
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Mitigation Measures
Table 6.3: Mitigation measures for marine water contamination
Significant Mitigation measures Cost Responsible party impact Transportation of material will be carried Included in Contractor out under the supervision of a suitably contract value experienced person. Marine water Fuel, paint and other chemicals will be Included in Contractor contamination transported in sealed containers. contract value Dredging should be carried out during Included in Contractor calm weather n low tide contract value
6.1.4 Loss of lagoon bottom organisms and habitats
The potential impacts due to dredging procedure are considered to be of high significance at dredging and borrow areas. The most significant impacts will be on the seagrass beds and species that depend on the seagrass for shelter, feeding and breeding. However, the affected area is very small compared to the surrounding seabed and therefore the overall impacts will be minimal.
Lagoon bottom is a habitat for certain organisms such as worms, molluscs, amphipod etc. which are important food sources for bottom feeders such as certain species of fishes. Lagoon bottom of project activities zones will be affected in the first phase of the dredging through direct removal of benthic communities and habitats and disturbing habitats of lagoon bottom organisms. However, it has been found elsewhere that lagoon bottom dwelling organisms re-establish within few months after such disturbances.
Mitigation Measures
Table 6.4: Mitigation measures for loss of lagoon bottom organisms
Significant Mitigation measures Cost Responsible party impact Carry out the activities in as short a time Included in Contractor period as possible to allow normal contract value Marine life conditions to re-establish in the area as loss soon as possible. Ensure all project activities are restricted to Included in Contractor necessary areas only. contract value Carry out works during calm conditions Contractor
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6.1.5 Noise, Vibrations and Air Pollution
Mitigation measures for noise, vibrations and air pollution
− All works will be carried out during day time to minimise nuisance to the resort and disturbances caused to nocturnal fauna such as birds and fruit bats that uses auditory communication.
− All vehicles and machinery will be tuned and well maintained to minimise air pollution.
− All staffs and locals will be informed of the development activities and timings.
6.1.6 Changes to Hydrodynamics
Mitigation measures to manage hydrodynamic changes
− Dredging should not be undertaken 30 m from shoreline.
− Dredging should be monitored to maintain the required sea level.
− Continuous monitoring to identify abnormal activity.
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7 ALTERNATIVES
This chapter considers possible alternatives for relevant components of the project including the no project option.
7.1 “No-project” Alternative
The option of a no project alternative has been considered for the coconut palm relocation project. The advantages and disadvantages of the No Project option are presented in Table 7.1.
Table 7.1: Summary of “No Project” Alternative
Options Advantages Disadvantages No − No development costs − Football pitch will have to be cleared anyway. Project to the proponent − Dhigufaru Resort completion may be option − Adverse environmental prolonged and job creation in Baa atoll is impacts associated with reduced the project are − Economic cost will be high for the council as prevented. clearance for roads have to be done by − Pitch will have to be themselves cleared anyway; it’s − Compensation for tree owners cannot be better to reuse the plants beared by the council due to high costs to improve environment rather than destroy them.
In spite of the environmental disadvantages of the no project option, the socio-economic benefits to the locals of Maalhos and the economic benefits to Dhigufaru Resort are numerous for this project to be undertaken. The simple fact is that the football pitch will have to be eventually cleared. It is better to reuse these plants to rejuvenate a resort island rather destroy them. The proponent brings ion resources and utmost care to ensure that these trees survive.
The following subsections provide alternative options to minimize the overall impacts of various elements of the project.
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7.2 Alternative tree felling techniques
Trees could be felled using traditional methods of digging around the trees and using ropes. The following table weighs the pros and cons of traditional method of tree felling.
Table 7.2: Pros and cons of traditional tree felling method
Advantages Disadvantages
• Simple and Cheap • Duration will be prolonged • Easy setup • Large number of labourers are required • No need of heavy machinery • Increases risk to trees and labour force. • Environmentally friendly • Large amount of soil required for • No need for qualified technicians backfilling the holes • Plant viable period is significantly reduced
Today tree felling is done using excavators after cutting through the root systems around the tree using electric saws. The following table weighs the pros and cons of this method of tree felling.
Table 7.3: Pros and cons of using heavy equipment for tree felling
Advantages Disadvantages
• Reduced project duration • Technician are needed for vehicle • Less labourers are required maintenance • Less soil needed to backfilling • Energy consumption is high • Complex setup • Exhaust fumes and gaseous harm the environment
Given the relative small scale of the project and weighing the pros and cons of the two methods use of heavy machinery for tree felling is the preferred option.
7.3 Alternative Site
An alternative site is not provided for this project as the site is in need of clearance for a futsal pitch and in turn the vegetation will be taken-up after compensation by the proponent.
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7.4 Alternative Borrow area
The alternative sites proposed as borrow sites are presented in Figure 2.4. The size of the two alternative borrow areas proposed are 750 m2 each. The sites are separated by about 200 ft. The impacts of dredging from both these sites may be higher on the marine environment as they are close to the live coral cover zones. In general, the impacts of dredging are similar for all sites.
The proposed site is preferred since it is the location where the locals plan to build the boat yard. It is also currently being used as a boat yard by some vessels. The project will avoid dredging unnecessary sites, if it coincides with the proposed boat yard dredging area.
The proposed location as a borrow areas is the preferred option.
7.5 Alternative Sediment Control Measures
Table 7.4 presents an evaluation of the alternative methods for sediment containment.
Table 7.4: Summary of sediment control measures
Measures Advantages Disadvantages Bund walls around Durable High impact on marine environment the project site Cost effective
Silt screen Durable Large quantities not locally available East to handle Costly Environmentally friendly Not suitable for shallow water
Control work Most practical High impact on marine environment times to calm Lower environmental impacts than conditions bund walls (Proposed) Cheaper
Given the small size of dredging involved in the project and limited timeframe for marine impacts, it is proposed to use work during calm conditions and with the mitigation measures specified in the impacts chapter.
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8 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN
The Environmental Management Plan (EMP) is an important component of the EIA process, needed to determine the accuracy of impact prediction, the adequacy of mitigation measures, and level of compliance with commitments regarding implementation of mitigation measures and monitoring of relevant environmental aspects.
The main objectives of the environmental management plan are to:
− Produce a framework for managing anticipated impacts, including practicable and achievable performance requirements and systems for monitoring, reporting and implementing corrective actions. − Provide evidence of compliance to legislation, policies, guidelines and requirements of relevant authorities.
8.1 Environmental management system
The environmental management framework for the proposed project is based on the standards and policies set out by the Environmental Protection Agency of the Maldives.
- Environmental Management Planning and establishment of key performance indicators: The EMP specifies environmental management measures and required performance standards - Monitoring and corrective action: The implementation of EMP measures will be monitored. Any inconsistencies between the EMP and its on-site implementation will be identified and addressed through corrective actions - Auditing, reviews and improvement: The EMP will be reviewed. Improvements to the EMP will be made as necessary to achieve desired environmental outcomes.
The environmental management strategy is demonstrated in the following figure.
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Commitment to environmental regulations, policies and guidelines
Environmental Management Plan (EMP)
Implementation of EMP
Improvements to Corrective and EMP preventative actions Monitoring EMP
Review of EMP
Figure 8.1: Environmental Management Strategy flow diagram
8.2 Management structure and responsibilities
The following parties are involved in the EMP of this project:
− Project proponent − Environmental consultant − Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
The roles and responsibilities of the parties involved are as follows.
8.2.1 Project proponent
− Execution of all project activities − Preparation of EMP
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− Detailed designs of dredging − Monitoring of the project activities − Submission of annual environmental monitoring reports as required by the EPA
8.2.2 Environmental Consultant
− Preparation of EMP − Monitoring of performance of project activities according to the EMP − Auditing the EMP to ensure desired outcomes are achieved − Making amendments to the EMP according to the results of the audits − Preparation of environmental monitoring report as required by the EPA (detailed in Chapter 9 of this report)
8.2.3 Environmental Protection Agency
− Review environmental monitoring report − Intervention in the event of a breach in environmental permit conditions
8.3 Reporting requirements
Reporting shall be undertaken to provide evidence of the ongoing implementation of the EMP and will cover any training activities, site conditions and operations, monitoring data, details of non- conformances, incidents, complaints and follow up action, results of audits and reviews. Reporting shall be undertaken by the project proponent and the Environmental Consultant.
The environmental reporting process is summarized in the figure below. All non-compliances and complaints during the execution of the project are to be reported to the EPA. The environmental management plan for execution of the project is provided below.
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Figure 8.2: Environmental Management Plan for construction and operation phase
Environmental Protection Agency Project proponent Environmental consultant
• • Issues raised from periodic review • Training of personnel Training of personnel of project • Environmental monitoring • Environmental monitoring • Recording of complaints • Recording of incidents audits • Recording of complaints and • Review of EMP follow up actions − • Review of EMP
Preparation of draft environmental report
Submission of report Annual environmental monitoring report finalized
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Table 8.1: Environmental Management Plan for construction and operation phase
Activity Management measures Responsible party Timing
Training of staff and All construction workers and project management staff will be Project proponent & Before contractors provided information on general environmental issues, compliance commencement of with environmental permits and EMP. Environmental construction Consultant activities All staff involved with environmental monitoring will be provided training in environmental monitoring procedures.
Documenting non- All non-conformances to the environmental permit conditions, Project proponent & Continuous during conformances and corrective observed during monitoring will be documented. construction phase actions Environmental Necessary corrective actions and preventative actions will be consultant identified
Corrective actions will be implemented, with systematic follow ups to ensure effectiveness of these measures
Control of water Oil, solid waste and hazardous waste handled carefully and Project proponent Continuous during contamination transported in sealed containers. construction phase
All paints, lubricants, and other chemicals used on site stored in a secure and bunded location.
Littering and accidental disposal of construction wastes avoided by preplanning.
All raw materials stored away from the vicinity of the coastal areas.
General refuse stockpiled in one central area.
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Activity Management measures Responsible party Timing
Construction activities carried out under the supervision of an experienced person.
Regular visual inspection of surrounding marine environment for waste
Waste management All waste segregated, stored temporarily and transferred to the Project proponent Continuous, during existing waste management site and domestic sewage generated construction phase (Waste generated from will be dealt through the existing sewerage treatment system or construction activities, the septic tanks construction workforce will generate domestic and sewage waste)
Supervision of project Assign suitably experienced and qualified personnel to supervise Project proponent Before activities the entire project and ensure that all activities are carried out with commencement of minimal adverse impact on the environment the project
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9 ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING PLAN
9.1 Introduction
While the negative environmental impacts of the project can be significantly minimised if proper mitigation measures are taken, as identified in Chapter 6, the potential for unforeseen impacts still exists. Furthermore, some of the predicted impacts may turn out to have greater significance than predicted, making the suggested mitigation measures ineffective. Therefore, frequent and regular monitoring of the relevant environmental aspects is a vital component of environment management. This chapter outlines the environmental monitoring plan for the proposed project.
9.2 Objectives of the Monitoring Plan
The main objectives of the monitoring plan are:
− To identify whether the predicted impacts are accurate and mitigation measures taken are effective − To identify any unforeseen impacts so that appropriate mitigation measures can be taken at the earliest − To identify and resolve any issues of social unrest at the earliest − To eliminate or reduce environmental costs
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9.3 Aspects of the Monitoring Plan
Table 9.1 below summarizes the key aspects of the monitoring plan. The Table indicates the methodology, frequency and estimated cost for each monitoring attribute that will be required for the proposed project.
Table 9.1: Monitoring plan for natural environment
Monitoring Indicators Methodology Frequency Estimated Responsible aspect cost party (USD) Groundwater pH, Total Collect Once after the USD 50 Proponent quality Hydro sample and project per (Maalhos) Carbon, test at completion sample Salinity laboratory Waste Waste Maintaining Daily during - Proponent management census; logs construction stage
Water pH, E- Collect Once after USD 50 Proponent quality of conductivity, sample and construction per marine Turbidity, test at stage sample environment suspended laboratory (Maalhos) solids, BOD & COD Quantity of 2 trees for Maintain logs Daily - Proponent trees each felled throughout the removed and felling process replanted Groundwater Nitrates, Collect Once a year USD50 Proponent quality phosphates sample and during first per (resort) and nitrites test at three years of sample laboratory operation Sonar mite or After Proponent Water Depth US$500 Water Depth handheld completion of per survey (Maalhos) echo sounder the project
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9.4 Monitoring Report
Monitoring activities will be undertaken according to the schedule outlined in Table 9.1. Preliminary monitoring reports will be compiled and submitted every six months after commencement of project activities, during the construction phase. During the operational phase, an annual monitoring report will be prepared and submitted to the relevant authorities for compliance. The report will include methodologies and protocols followed for data collection and analysis, quality control measures and indicate the uncertainties.
9.5 Commitment for Monitoring
The proponent is fully committed to undertake the monitoring program outlined in this Chapter (refer Appendix C of this report).
9.6 Cost of monitoring
The cost of monitoring is estimated to be US$ 500 annually.
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10 STAKEHOLDER CONSULTATIONS
Stakeholder consultation sessions were held with the island council members and the local community on 14th November 2015.
Council consultation was undertaken as a meeting between the EIA team, Council members and civil service staff. The public meeting was held as a focus group discussion on the site, where fisherman, boat owners, business owners and the general population discussed the project.
The sections below summarizes the meeting and their findings.
10.1 Consultation with the Island Council
Location: Island Council Office Time: 14th November 2015, 09:00am Participants: Island council members and EIA team (see Table 10.1)
Proceeding; The EIA consultation firm and the proponent was introduced to the council. The main components of the project were explained and the council members were asked about their view of the project. A brief summary of the discussion points of the meeting is presented below.
Summary of key discussions: • The council members were well aware of the project and what the project involves. • The island council is in favor of the project and thinks that the project is a win-win for both the parties. • Maalhos island council explained that they had already counted the trees in the project site and identified the owners. Consultation with the tree owners had been ongoing at time of the surveys. • According to the island council, there are 61 big palm trees and numerous small shoots within the project area. All the big palm trees except one are all owned by private individuals. In addition there are 8 large trees of 4 different species. 5 of these trees are owned by individuals and the remaining three are public property. • The council explained that the island needs a proper and better futsal ground since the current futsal area is not sufficient for the users. At present the futsal ground is used everyday. • The council does not think that there will be much public concerns regarding the relocation of trees since compensation will be paid to the tree owners. The council believes that issues regarding the compensation rate are expected to be minimum since there is a fixed compensation rate (500MVR) set for every good palm tree. However, council has not ruled
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out of the possibility of tree owner’s dissatisfaction with the compensation amount. Council explains that if any tree owner is unhappy with the compensation amount, the issue can be settled through the court. • The council was asked about their plans about the extra palm trees and other trees that will be rooted out from the project site. The council explained that all the large trees will be given to Dhigufaruvingandu if they require more trees. If not, they will ask the contractor to cut down all the large trees to a preferred size. The council does not have any plans for relocating the trees elsewhere on the island. • The palm trees on the sides of the roads are an alternative for sourcing the palm trees according to Maalhos Council. • The island council explained that Maalhos has a recurrent problem of flooding and mud formation on the roads after rain events. The council proposes to mitigate this problem by excavating the black soil layer of the project site and transferring and spreading this soil on the roads where flooding is an issue. The project site is proposed to be refilled and leveled with sand dredged from the lagoon.
Table 10.1: List of participants for the Island Council Meeting
# Name Title Contact number Email 1 Abdulla Sujau Council president 7468150 [email protected] 2 Abdul Matheen Council Member 7782124 [email protected] 3 Aboobakuru Abdulla Council Member 7476799 [email protected]
10.2 Consultation with the Atoll Council
Location: Atoll Council Office Time: 14th November 2015, 11:00am Participants: Atoll council members and EIA team (see Table 10.2)
Proceeding; A brief introduction of the EIA firm and the proponent were given followed by explaining the project rationale and the components involved. The Atoll council were asked if there are any regulatory requirements or permits to be taken from the Atoll council for this project. They were also asked about their views on the project. The key points from the meeting are presented below.
Summary of key discussions: • No permits are required to be taken from the Atoll council for this project. • The Atoll council pointed out that compensation would need to be paid to the tree owners and believes that this project should be undertaken with consultation from the public, especially the tree owners. • No concerns were raised regarding the project.
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Table 10.2: List of participants for the Atoll Council Meeting
# Name Title Contact Email number 1 Hassan Siraj Council member 7604767 [email protected] 2 Mabrook Naseer Council Vice President 9999828 [email protected] 3 Mohamed Adil Council President 9990242 [email protected] 4 Ibrahim Shareef Council member 7778733 [email protected] 5 Ali Naiz Council member 7946666 [email protected] 6 Ibrahim Rasheed Council member 7991960 [email protected] 7 Fathimath Nasra Director General 9997828 [email protected] 8 Abdul Majeed Hassan Admin officer 7880576 [email protected] 9 Moosa Faiz Assistant Director 7787307 [email protected]
10.3 Public Consultation
Location: Maalhos School Time: 14th November 2015, 20:30 pm Participants: Island council members, Members of the public and EIA team (see Table 10.3)
Proceeding; The island council commenced the meeting by introducing the EIA team and the proponent. The council briefed the public about how the project was conceived, the need for this project for Maalhos and what the project involves. The discussion was then handed over to the EIA team. The EIA team reintroduced themselves and explained the project components in more detail. The public were asked about their views and opinions on the different components of the project. A summary of the key discussion points of this meeting are presented below.
Summary of key discussions: • Majority of the participants agreed that the island needs a new futsal ground and that the proposed location is a good location for a futsal ground. However, one participant stated that he was against clearing the land for developing the area as a sports ground. • Most of the participants agreed to the comment from the council about the ongoing problem of flooding of roads due to the compactness of the roads. . The council expressed their desire to address the flooding issue of Maalhos roads through this project. Participants suggested two options to mitigate this problem; (1) Take the top soil layer (1ft) from the 100 x 165 ft area and replace with dredged sand during ground leveling work and place the black soil on the roads, (2) Remove the top layer of soil from the project site to a depth of 2ft and refill the bottom 1ft with dredged sand and refill the top 1ft with soil excavated from the project site. The extra soil is proposed to be used on the roads. The
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council or public did not provide a figure for the amount of sand or soil required for use on the roads. • There was consensus among the participants that the proposed borrow site was a good location for sourcing the sand since it is the island’s boat yard basin which is now in need of deepening. • Participants were asked about their views on relocating the palm trees to Dhigufaruviangandu and they pointed that the owners of the palm trees in the project site were not present at the meeting, hence it would be better to consult them separately. • In general, the participants of the public meeting were in favour of the project.
Table 10.3: List of participants for the public consultation meeting
# Name Address 1 Mohamed Hameed Aakuri / B.Maalhos 2 Visam Moosa Orchid Villa/ B.Maalhos 3 Ibrahim Khaleel Mahma / B.Maalhos 4 Mohamed Rashad Fiyaathoshige / B.Maalhos 5 Yoosuf Hassan Roashaneege / B.Maalhos 6 Ali Riza Heeraage/ B.Maalhos 7 Ahmed Firag Finifenmaage / B.Maalhos 8 Mohamed Abdulla Blueland / B.Maalhos 9 Ibrahim Nashid Penzeemaage/ B.Maalhos 10 Aboobakuru Abdulla Zamaaneehouse/ B.Maalhos 11 Mohamed Saleem Athagasdhoshuge / B.Maalhos 12 Aboobakuru Mohamed Lilyge / B.Maalhos 13 Sameera Ibrahim Gulb/ B.Maalhos 14 Zulfa Ali Ganduvaruge / B.Maalhos 15 Nasheedha Idrees Kaanimaage/ B.Maalhos 16 Muneera Ibrahim Lhosmaavilla/ B.Maalhos 17 Najeeba Yoosuf Haveyli / B.Maalhos 18 Naseema Mohamed Athagasdhosuge/ B.Maalhos 19 Mareena Ali Gulfaamuge / B.Maalhos 20 Saadhuna Ibrahim Bahaareege / B.Maalhos 21 Saamia Abdulla Gul’alaage / B.Maalhos 22 Ahmed Idrees Vaavalu / B.Maalhos 23 Adam Yoosuf Husnuheenaage 24 Aboobakuru Abdulla Gul’alaage / B.Maalhos 25 Ibrahim AbdulRahmaan Mushthareege / B.Maalhos
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Figure 10.1: Public consultation at Maalhos,14th November 2015
10.4 Door-to-door public consultation
Time: 14th November 2015
Participants: Random members of the public and EIA team (see Table 10.4)
A door-to-door public consultation was conducted following the public meeting to include the views of more individuals from the public. The door-to-door consultation included interviews with some palm tree owners of the project site as well. All participants were briefed about the EIA firm, the proponent, and the main components of the project. Each participant was asked about his or her views, concerns and suggestions regarding the project. The following is a summary of the findings from the door-to-door consultation.
Summary of key discussions:
• All participants interviewed were in favor of the project and many stated that they would like the project to be implemented soon. • Five out of the 13 participants interviewed said that they own some palm trees from the project site. All of these participants stated that they have no issue with the relocation of palm trees. One participant who owns 7 palm trees said that she is happy to give her palm trees without any compensation since the project is expected to bring positive social benefits to the island. • Two participants explained that clearing the dense vegetation of the project site would alleviate the problem of mosquitoes in that area. • All the participants of the door-to-door consultation believed that the development of a futsal ground is a good development for Maalhos and should therefore be implemented.
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Table 10.4: List of members interviewed in the door-to-door sessions
# Name Address 1 Hawwa Zahira Sunset / B.Maalhos 2 Ahmed Najah Nooville / B.Maalhos 3 Majida Hassan Azum / B.Maalhos 4 Siyama Idrees Noovilla ge / B.Maalhos 5 Khadheeja Ali Janavareege / B.Maalhos 6 Rasheedha Nizam Bilimagumaage / B.Maalhos 7 Shareefa Yoosuf Hithahfinivaage / B.Maalhos 8 Idrees Ali Kaanimaage / B.Maalhos 9 Aneesa Abdulla Lilyge / B.Maalhos 10 Abdul Rahman Ali Venus / B.Maalhos 11 Zuleikha Venus / B.Maalhos 12 Sofa Abdul Rasheed Eight / B.Maalhos 13 Sodhuna Abubakr Keesvilla / B.Maalhos
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11 Potential Data Gaps and Assessment Limitations
11.1 Gaps in Information
The environment of Maldives is generally poorly understood. This may be due to the lack of detailed studies in the Maldives. Much of the literatures on coral islands are derived from studies done in the Pacific which unfortunately has very different climatic and geologic settings.
Detailed environmental analysis for an EIA is often required to be undertaken in a relatively short period of time. Give the seasonal climatic variations in Maldives and the differences in local geomorphologic and climate settings in individual islands such a short time frame is often too little to assess selected aspects of the environment. This problem is compounded by the absence of long-term studies in other parts of Maldives. Hence, most EIA’s end up being based on an environmental snapshot of specific point in time. However, experienced EIA specialists can deliver a close match to reality based on a number of similar assessments. In this regard, the following gaps could be identified in information.
− Absence of long-term site specific or even regional data (at least 2 years). Most critical data include current, wave and terrestrial modification history. − Absence of historical and long-term records on reef and lagoon environment. − Lack of detailed data on geology and soil due to time limitation in EIA submission.
These gaps are seriously considered in the assessment and care has been taken to address the issue in designing mitigation measures and the monitoring programme.
11.2 Uncertainties in Impact Prediction
Environmental impact prediction involves a certain degree of uncertainty as the natural and anthropogenic impacts can vary from place to place due to even slight differences in ecological, geomorphological or social conditions in a particular place. As note earlier, there is also no long term data and information regarding the particular site under consideration, which makes it difficult to predict impacts. It is important to consider that there will be uncertainties and voluntary monitoring of natural processes as described in the monitoring programme is absolutely essential.
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12 Conclusions
The assessment shows that the proposed developments involve significant impacts on terrestrial vegetation and moderately significant impacts on marine environment. In addition there is a risk of marine and ground water pollution due to heavy equipment use.
However, the impacts predicted can be minimized considerably with the proposed mitigation measures. Operational stage impacts are mainly limited to possible erosion associated with changes to hydrodynamics, which will require adherence to the environmental management plans provided in this document to minimize the effects.
The designs have been modified to follow environmental best practices. These include backfilling all holes left from uprooting and avoiding dredging within 30 m of vegetation line. The need for dredging closer to the shoreline (i.e. less than 50 m) is based on the community’s request to deepen their future boatyard area. The proponent has no preferred location to dredge. The figure of 30 m distance was arrived as compromise between environmental impacts and the need for the boatyard. Overall, the project aims to reuse vegetation to rejuvenate the vegetation system in Dhigufaruvinagandu, which would be given utmost care due to their value for the resort island. These are trees that may otherwise be discarded.
The project given its small scale and short duration could be completed with minimal environmental degradation. It is recommended to proceed with the project.
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REFERENCES
BINNIE BLACK & VEATCH 2000.Enviromental / Technical study for dredging / reclamation works under Hulhumale' Project - Final Report. Male': Ministry of Construction and Public Works.
GODA, Y. 1998. Causes of high waves at Maldives in April 1987. Male': Asia Development Bank.
KENCH, P. S., BRANDER, R. W., PARNELL, K. E. & MCLEAN, R. F. 2006. Wave energy gradients across a Maldivian atoll: Implications for island geomorphology. Geomorphology, 81, 1-17.
MEC 2004. Maldives: State of the Environment 2004, Male', Ministry of Envrionment and Construction.
NASEER, A. 2003. The integrated growth response of coral reefs to environmental forcing: morphometric analysis of coral reefs of the Maldives. PhD, Dalhousie University.
UNDP 2006. Developing a Disaster Risk Profile for Maldives, Male', United Nations Development Programme and Government of Maldives.
YOUNG, I. R. 1999. Seasonal variability of the global ocean wind and wave climate. International Journal of Climatology, 19, 931–950.
LUTHFY, M. I. 1994. DhivehirajjeygeGeographeegeVanavaru [The Geography of Maldives], Male', Novelty Printers and Publishers.
MEC 2004. Maldives: State of the Environment 2004, Male', Ministry of Envrionment and Construction.
MINISTRY OF PLANNING AND NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT (MPND) 2002.Population and Housing Census 2000 of the Maldives Analytical Report. Male', Maldives: MPND.
MINISTRY OF PLANNING AND NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT (MPND) 2006. Maldives Population and Housing Census 2006: Preliminary Results. Male', Maldives: MPND.
Ministry of Planning and National Development, 2008. Population and Housing Census 2006 of the Maldives Analytical Report, Ministry of Planning and National Development, Male’, Maldives
MPND & UNDP 2004.Maldives Vulnerability and Poverty Assessment 2004 (VPA-II). Male', Maldives: Ministry of Planning and National Development, United Nations Development Programme, Maldives.
SHAIG, A. 2007.Maldives Land Study 2006. Townsville: James Cook University.
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APPENDIX A – Terms of Reference
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.ti.t r',.2tt;, - ,rii tr.i,, t,i/ "Ohrvehn' Anday!Ierd.v'an, [email protected]€nt
EPA/ToR/2015/171 Terms of Reference for Environmental lmpact Assessment for the proposed Coconut palm Relocation Project, Maalhos, Baa Atoll
The following is the Terms of Reference (ToR) following the scoping meeting held on 27/04/2015 for undertaking the EIA of the proposed coconut palm relocation project at Maalhos Island, Baa Atoll. While every attempt has been made to ensue that this TOR addresses all of the major issues associated with development proposal, they are not necessarily exhaustive. They shouid not be interpreted as excluding from consideration matters deemed to be significant but noi incorporated in them, or matters currently unforeseen, that emerge as important or significant from environmental studies, or otherwise, during the course ofpreparation ofthe EIA report
l. scribe the purpose of the project and, if applicable, the background y and the tasks already completed.Objectives of the development activities should be specifrc and if possible quantified. Define the ariangements required for the environmental assessment including how work carried out under this is linked to other activities that are canied "o-ntru"t out or that is being carried out within the project boundary. Identiff the donors and the institutional arrangements relevant to this project.
2' Studv area Submit - a minimum .A3 size scaled plan with indications of all the proposed sites. Specify the agreed boundaries of the study area for thi Environment Impact Assessment highlighting the proposed coconut palm removal site and size of this site.
3' Scqqg o[ work- Identify and. number tasks of the project including site preparation, equipment mobilization and decommissioning phases.
the proposed justification of the ct, uslng maps following should be utputs related t r Identification of the area proposed for tree removal and anticipated area for relocation . Estimated number and type of trees to be relocated or removed o Method of removal, transportation and replanting o Disposal method for plants that a not transplanted. Backfilling ' holes: method used to level the area. If backfilling is proposed, the estimated volume of sand required, sand source, method of excavation and trlsporting. Specify ' materials, equipment, heavy machinery, staff estimate (quantity Jnd period of time), key personnel positions, intermittent technical expertise required;
Task 2' Description the of environment - Assemble, evaluate and present the environmenlal baseline r:gTjing the study *:u.ung :::1y199 timingof the project(e.g. .on.oon season). Identifo baseline data gaps and identift studies and the level of detail to te caniea out by consultant. Consideration o
Envi.onmental Prorection A6ency
Green Eurldin& 3'o Floor, HandhuvareeHinBUn ti-. ,t)-t ,4:tj ,tJ,ti;- t,.t Male, Rep of Maldives, 20392 20392,iti-i. ,ji r€l: l+9601 333 s9a9 [+9@l 333 59sr ]it, tmall: re([email protected] mv j:j: Far: (+960) 333 5953 :-r) website: ww epa gov rnv i:,-:j fu''P
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is suitable for use as a baseline. As such all baseline data must be presented in such a way that they will be usefully applied to future monitoring. The report should outline detailed methodology of data collection utilized.
The baseline data will be collected before sampling and from at least two benchmarks.All survey locations shall be referenced with Geographic Positioning System (GPS). including water sampiing points, lagoon surveys and vegetation transects for posterior data comparison. Information should be divided into the categories shown below:
tThere is a description of the specific dala collection requirements nttoched in the appendix of this TOR lemplate.
Climate . Temperature, rainfall, wind, waves
o Bathymetry at the proposed and altemative dredging locations' impacts o Characteristics of seabed sediments to assess direct habitat destruction and turbidity during dredging;
o Tidal ranges and tidal currents; o Wave climate and wave induced currents; r Wind induced (seasonal) currents; total o Sea water quality measuring these parameters: temperature, pH, salinity, turbidity, suspended solids.
o Benthic and fish community monitoring at the project site; Electrical o Ground water quality measuring these parameters: Temperature, pH, Salinity and ConductivitY. and tlpe of . Vegetation suruey of the proposed project location, identifiing number, location trees and palms to be removed.
Socio-economic environment . Co-p"nsation for locals, regarding tree ownership rights (if applicable)' and marine . Demography: total populatlon, sex ratio, density, growth and pressure on land fesources: . Income situation and distribution . Land use planning, natural resource use and zoning of activities at sea;
Hazard vulnerability: o Vulnerability ofarea to flooding and storm surge. irtiii .izittttt: tnvironmefital Protection AgencY -t;t ,fu/.i Li3 ).: Gre€nBurldiot, 3'd Floor, HandhuvareeHintun ti-. .t)-t '!i;i,
M.le', nep of Maldives,20392 Email secretariat@epa tov mv i:i: T€l: l+9501 333 s949 l+9601 333 s951 )iti websit€: ww1|/ €Pa tov mv i:,ti tarl t+9601 333 5953 :-tj 2of5 (uP
t'*tti; ;ittrttt: -t;: =E! "Ohiv€hln' - Alw.F Meldivlan, Foe6r hdopondent Envrronmentat Protection og*"v EPA
Absence of facilities in the country to carry out the water quality tests will not exempt the proponent from the obligation to provide necessary data. The report should outline the detailed methodology of data collection utilized to describe the existins environmenr.
Task 3. Legislative and regulatory considerations - Identify the pertinent legislation, regulations and standards, and environmental policies that are relevant and applicable to the proposed project, and identift the appropriate authority jurisdictions that will specifically apply to the project. The report should clearly identify the different articles and clauses that apply to the said project and should state how the project meets these requirements
Task 4. Potential impacts (environnental and socio-cultural) of proposed project, incl. all stages The - EIA report should identift all the impacts, direct and indirectj duiing uh". uction, and -i "onrt evaluate the magnitude and significance of each. Particular attention shall be given to impacts associated with the lollowing.
Imoacts on the natural environment r Impacts on ground water quality; . Impacts on sea water quality; . Impacts on landscape integrity/scenery.
ImDacts on the socio-economic environment ' Impact on locals regarding compensation for their tree ownership rights (if applicable) o Impacts of increased demands on natural resources and services especially water supply, land availability, waste management, energy supply, harbour capacity; o Level ofprotection against hazards like sea level rise, storm surges, etc. o Social destabilization of the island community.
Construction related hazards and risks r Pollution of the natural environment (e.g. oil spills, discharge of untreated waste water and solid waste, including construction waste); o Risk of accidents and pollution on workers and local population, and Impacts ' on social values, norms and belief due to presence of workers of dredging company on local population.
The methods used to identifr the significance of the impacts shall be outlined. One or more of the following methods must be utilized in determining impacts; checklisls, matrices, overlays, networks, expert systems professional and judgment. Justification must be provided to the selected methodologies. The report should outline the uncertainties in impact preiiction and also outline all positive negative/short and and long-term impacrs. tdentify impacts that are cumulative and unavoidable. Use interaction matrices (E.g. Leopold Matrix) to assesi the magnitude and significance of the impacts.
Environmental Prot€ction At€ncy
G.een Suildin& 3d Ftoo., Handhuv.recHintun t.,-- ,t)-t ,jt:tj ,i3.tt.j- .rz.t Male', R€p. of Maldives, 20392 20392,;:i-ia ,.ii Tel: t+9001333 s949 [+9501 333 sgsr ,2i.t; Emall:sec.€[email protected],j:ii Fat: I+9501333 5953 )r) 3ofs Websit€: ww.€pa.tov.mv : eir:j Fau/.
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Task 5. Alternatives to proposed project - Describe altematives including the "no action option" should be presented. Determine the best practical environmental options. Altematives examined for the proposed project that would achieve the same objective including the "no action altemative". This should include altemative location/island, sand borrow areas, taking into account environmental, social and economic factors. The report should highlight how the location was determined. All altematives must be compared according to intemational standards and commonly accepted standards as much as possible. The comparison should yield the preferred alternative for impGmentation. Mitigation options should be specified for each component of the proposed project.
Task 6. Mitigation and management of negative impacts - Identify possible measures to prevent or reduce significant negativelmpacts to acieptab e levels. These will include both environmental and socio-economic mitigation -"ur*a. with particular attention paid to sedimentation control and in coastal processes. cost the mitigation measures, equipment and resources future changes-implement required to thoie measures. The confirmation of commitment of the developer to implement the proposed mitigation measures shall also be included. An Environmental and management plan for the prop-osed project, identiffing responsible person_s, their duties - to commlitments shall also bJ given. In cases where impacts are unavoidable arrangements compensate for the environmental effect shall be given.
Task 7. Development of monitoring plan (see appendixf Identifo the critical issues requiring impact and monitoring to ensure compliance to mitigation ."utur". and present .management monitorin! plan for ground water and sea water quality. Ecological monitoring will be submitted to the EPA to evaluate the damages during construction, after project completion and every three months thereafter, up to one year and then on a yearly basis for five years after. The baseline study the described in task 2 of section 2 of this document is required for data comparison. Detail of monitoring, cost monitoring progam including the physical and biological parameters -for commitmeni fro- responsible lerson to conduct monitoring in the form of a commitment letter, detailed reporting schiduling, costs and methods of undertaking the monitoring program must be provided.
* This TOR contains an outline ofthe parameters that have to be tested (see appendix). All projects are different, therefore additional or less data will be collected for recovery and impact assessments.
the Task 8. Stakeholder consultation - Identify appropriate mechanisms for providing information on development proposal and its progress io ali stakeholders. Consultation shall be undertaken with Ministry of iourism, B.Maalhos Council and the general public of Maalhos. The EIA report ted and their contact ustification, details of rePort should include evidence that EIA report has been submitted to atoll council prior to submission to EPA' 'w
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Presentation- The environmental impact assessment report, to be presented in digital format, will be concise and focus on significant environmental issues. It will contain the findings, conclusions and recommended actions supported by summaries of the data collected and citations f or any references used in interpreting those data. The environmental assessment report will be organized according to, bul not necessarily limited by, the outline given in the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations 2012.
Timgfrgme fqr submittine the EIA reoort - The developer must submit the completed EtA report within 6 months from the date of this Term of Reference.
[nvironfi Grnat Protcction Atancf _ti: tliti ieitttttt G.€!n Euildtn& 3d floor, Handhwar.cHingun tt-, atit ,jt:tj ,t3 ,tti: t t M.l€', R.p. of Maklvcs, 20392 20392,2tt:ta ;i Telr l+9601333 s949 333 l+9ol S95t .riti Em.ll:s.cr€tan.te.p..tov.mv,4t: F.r: 119601 313 5953 : :-rj 5ofs W.beitel www.pa.tov.mv , i.t;. EIA for the Proposed Coconut Palm Relocation Project in Maalhos Island, Baa Atoll
APPENDIX B – Site Plan
Prepared by: CDE Consulting Page|103 73°6'15"E 73°6'30"E
Proposed Borrow Area Volume: 750 cbm Area: 750 sqm 5°8'15"N
Depth: 1 m 5°8'15"N
Alternative Borrow Area 1 Volume: 750 cbm Area: 750 sqm Depth: 1 m Legend
BorrowArea
Alternative Borrow Areas Alternative Borrow Area 2 Proposed Tree Removal Area (100 ft x 165 ft) Volume: 750 cbm Futsal Pitch Area Area: 750 sqm Depth: 1 m
µ 5°8'0"N 5°8'0"N
Meters
0 40 80 160 Maalhos Island, Baa Atoll Treee Transplanting Project Site Plan PROJECTION: Transverse Mercator (UTM Zone 43 N); HORIZONTAL DATUM: WGS84; VERTICAL DATUM: Hulhule Tide Gauge Map version: 20/01/2016 Surveyed and Prepared by: CDE Consulting, Maldives 73°6'15"E 73°6'30"E EIA for the Proposed Coconut Palm Relocation Project in Maalhos Island, Baa Atoll
APPENDIX C– Commitment Letter
Prepared by: CDE Consulting Page|104
EIA for the Proposed Coconut Palm Relocation Project in Maalhos Island, Baa Atoll
APPENDIX D– Approvals
Prepared by: CDE Consulting Page|105
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APPENDIX E – Survey Locations
Prepared by: CDE Consulting Page|106 73°6'20"E 73°6'30"E 73°6'40"E 73°6'50"E
Beach Profiles Currents Marine Water Samples Groundwater Samples Legend Code X Y Code X Y Code X Y Code X Y P1 73.10538 5.135512 C1 73.10588 5.13744 SW1 73.10608 5.13744 GW1 73.1068 5.136057 Coastal Protection P2 73.10599 5.136651 C2 73.11063 5.135503 SW2 73.11051 5.135407 P3 73.10725 5.137208 C3 73.11135 5.129715 A! Currents P4 73.10874 5.136589 C4 73.10628 5.131712 P5 73.11008 5.134664 C1 #0 Ground Water Samples P6 73.1109 5.132565 SW1 ! !. P3 P7 73.10713 5.132814 A !. Marine Water Samples P8 73.10547 5.133883 Beach Profiles P2
P4 Manta Tows
Vegetation line
GW1 Low Tide Line
5°8'10"N #0 5°8'10"N Lagoon P1 !SW2 Dredged Areas !.A C2 Reef
P5
P8 5°8'0"N 5°8'0"N
P7 P6 µ C4 A!
Maalhos Island, Baa Atoll 5°7'50"N 5°7'50"N Palm Tree Relocation EIA Survey Locations
C3 PROJECTION: Transverse Mercator A! (UTM Zone 43 N); HORIZONTAL DATUM: WGS84; VERTICAL DATUM: Hulhule Tide Gauge Map version: 21/01/2016 Surveyed and Prepared by: CDE Consulting, Maldives 73°6'20"E 73°6'30"E 73°6'40"E 73°6'50"E EIA for the Proposed Coconut Palm Relocation Project in Maalhos Island, Baa Atoll
APPENDIX F–Beach Profiles
Prepared by: CDE Consulting Page|107
Profile 1 2
1.5
1 [m]
0.5 Height
0 0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40
‐0.5 Distance [m]
Profile 2 2
1.5
1
[m] 0.5
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‐1
‐1.5 Distance [m]
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1
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‐1
‐1.5 Distance [m]
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‐2 Distance [m]
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0.5
Height 0 0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 ‐0.5
‐1 Distance [m]
Profile 6 1
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0 0 1020304050
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‐1 Height ‐1.5
‐2
‐2.5 Distance [m]
Profile 7 2.5
2
1.5 [m]
1
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0 0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 ‐0.5 Distance [m]
Profile 8 2
1.5
1 [m]
0.5
Height 0 0 5 10 15 20 25 30 ‐0.5
‐1 Distance [m]
EIA for the Proposed Coconut Palm Relocation Project in Maalhos Island, Baa Atoll
APPENDIX G –Water Quality Results
Prepared by: CDE Consulting Page|108
EIA for the Proposed Coconut Palm Relocation Project in Maalhos Island, Baa Atoll
APPENDIX H– Bathychart
Prepared by: CDE Consulting Page|109 73°6'16"E 73°6'18"E 73°6'20"E 73°6'22"E 73°6'24"E 73°6'26"E Legend
5°8'18"N contourtest
Vegetation Line
Low Tide Line Dec 2015 -25 Depth m MSL -30 -15 -0.9 - -0.5 -9 -25 -20 -10 -7
5°8'16"N -1.9 - -1.0 -30 5°8'16"N -25 -6 -3 -1 -2 -2.9 - -2.0 -25 -3.9 - -3.0 -25
-4.9 - -4.0 -20 -5-4 -30 -9.9 - -5.0 -25 -20 -14.9 - -10.0 5°8'14"N 5°8'14"N -19.9 - -15.0 -20
-25 -29.9 - -20.0
-34.8 - -30.0
Dredged areas
Inner Reef Line 5°8'12"N 5°8'12"N Outer Reef Line
-1 -9 -8 µ
-20 -25
-10
-15 5°8'10"N 5°8'10"N
Meters
0 20 40 80 Maalhos Island, Baa Atoll Treee Transplanting Project Bathymetry PROJECTION: Transverse Mercator 5°8'8"N 5°8'8"N (UTM Zone 43 N); HORIZONTAL DATUM: WGS84; VERTICAL DATUM: Hulhule Tide Gauge Map version: 20/01/2016 Surveyed and Prepared by: CDE Consulting, Maldives 73°6'16"E 73°6'18"E 73°6'20"E 73°6'22"E 73°6'24"E 73°6'26"E EIA for the Proposed Coconut Palm Relocation Project in Maalhos Island, Baa Atoll
APPENDIX I– CV’s of Consultants
Prepared by: CDE Consulting Page|110 Ahmed Shaig Phone: (+960) 77 88 758 [email protected]
Personal Details Date of Birth: 19/02/1976 Nationality: Maldivian Gender: Male Marital Status: Married Permanent Address: Maldives Present Address: M. Muleege, Orchid Magu, Male’, Maldives.
Education PhD, Environmental Science, 2009 James Cook University, Townsville, Australia
Research degree on ‘Settlement Planning for Natural Hazard Resilience in Small Island States: The Population and Development Consolidation Approach’
BSc Land and Spatial Information Studies/Information Science. (double major), 1999-2001 University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
Diploma in project planning, implementation, monitoring and evaluation, 1995 ILO training Centre, Turin, Italy
Employment History
Director, Environmental Services 2008 to present CDE Consulting Supervisor: Dr. Simad Saeed Republic of Maldives Phone: +(960) 7777445 Head of environmental wing
Assistant Under-secretary, Spatial Planning 2002-2004 Ministry of Planning and National Development Supervisor: Hon. Hamdun Hameed Republic of Maldives Phone: +(960) 332-3919 Head of Spatial Planning Unit. Relevant Tasks include: ♦ Oversee environment related projects and application of environmental guidelines for planned projects. ♦ Plan, implement and oversee the development of a National GIS; ♦ Aid/facilitate/oversee urban planning, housing, land use planning, natural resource planning and environment related projects; Provide assistance in project planning (includes urban and regional planning, natural resources planning)
Project Manager, National Digital Mapping Project 2005 (8 months) Ministry of Planning and National Development Supervisor: Hon. Hamdun Hameed Republic of Maldives Phone: +(960) 332-3919 ♦ Project involved aerial photography and satellite imagery of entire Maldives, ground surveying of key settlements, digital conversion of data and setting up a Mapping Unit.
Assistant Planning Officer/Planning Officer 1994-1999 Ministry of Planning and National Development Supervisor: Mr. Mohamed Hunaif Republic of Maldives Phone +(960) 331-3040 Relevant tasks involved: ♦ Assisting in the National GIS Development Programme (Junior GIS developer) ♦ Facilitate urban planning, housing, land use planning, natural resource planning and environment related projects.
Ahmed Shaig page 1
Experience in Consultancy
. September 2002: Member of the team appointed for environmental surveying and carrying capacity assessment of islands for tourism development in the southern atolls of Maldives for Ministry of Tourism Maldives. . October 2002: Developed the Census GIS for United National Population Fund . December 2002: Developed the Maldives Protected Areas Systems GIS for Maldives Home Affairs Housing and Environment. . February 2003: Participated in the preparation of Royal Island and Spa Resort Annual Environmental Monitoring Report for Royal Island and Spa. . April 2003: Member of the team selected for developing town plans for urban centres in Northern and Southern Regional Development Zones, looking specifically into environmental control measures, for Ministry of Planning and National Development. . April 2003: Participated in the preparation of Environmental Impact Statement for Coastal Modifications on Rihiveli, South Malé Atoll, Maldives. . April 2003: Participated in the surveying and preparation of Environmental Impact Statement for the proposed coastal improvements to address coastal erosion concerns on Royal Island Spa Resort, Baa Atoll, Maldives. . May 2003: Participated in the bathymetry survey and preparation of Initial Environmental Examination for Deepening of Existing Entrance Channel to Service Jetty, Soneva Gili Resort and Spa, North Malé Atoll, Maldives . May 2003: Participated in the preparation of Initial Environmental Examination for development of an access channel into the natural inner lagoon (Vilu) of Mayafushi resort, North Ari Atoll. . May 2003: Participated in the preparation of Environmental Impact Assessment for Landaa Giraavaru Pvt. Ltd. for the development of a Four Season’s Tourist Resort on the island of Landaa Giraavaru in Baa Atoll, Maldives. . June 2003: Participated in survey and preparation of Initial Environmental Examination for the Development of a Mooring Area and Associated Beach Replenishment in, Boduhithi Club, North Malé Atoll, Maldives. . July 2003: Participated in the surveying and preparation of Initial Environmental Examination for Short- term and Long-term Shore Protection Measures at Alimatha Tourist Resort, Vaavu Atoll, Maldives. . July 2003: Conducted shoreline and vegetation line of Alimatha Tourist Resort, Vaavu Atoll, Maldives. . July 2003: Participated in the surveying for Initial Environmental Examination for Short-term and Long- term Shore Protection Measures at Dhiggiri Tourist Resort, Vaavu Atoll, Maldives. . July 2003: Participated in conducting and preparation of Fun Island Resort Annual Environmental Monitoring Report. . July 2003: Participated in conducting and preparation of Sun Island Resort Annual Environmental Monitoring Report. . July 2003: Participated in conducting and preparation of Holiday Island Resort Annual Environmental Monitoring Report. . August 2003: Developed the Initial Environmental Examination for the construction of Sun Decks along the southern beach of Kudarah Island Resort. . September 2003: Participated in surveying and preparation of Fonaddoo Environmental Impact Assessment Report for the development of fisheries complex, Fonaddoo, Maldives. . October 2003: Participated in surveying and preparation of Kuda Rah Erosion Study and recommendations for shore protection and erosion prevention . November 2003: Conducted vegetation and shoreline survey of Dhonveli Beach and Spa and Four Seasons Report for the Boundary Delineation between the two islands. . December 2003: Contributed to the Landuse Planning Guidelines of Maldives (environmental aspects) for Ministry of Housing and Urban Development. . December 2003: Contributed to the Development of a Building Code of Maldives for Ministry of Housing and Urban Development. . January 2004: Co-author to the Environmental Guidelines for the Development of Resort Islands in Maldives, Ministry of Tourism. . February 2004: Developed the Baa Atoll Spatial Development Plan for Ministry of Planning and National Development.
Ahmed Shaig page 2
. April-July 2004: Participated in the preparation of the Environmental aspects of the 8 bid proposals for resort Development for various proponents. . November 2005: Participated in the preparation of EIA for L.Gan Resettlement Project for Ministry of Housing. . December 2005: Participated in the surveying and preparation of EIA for Gn Fuvahmulaku Tourist Hotel Development . November 2005: Developed a GIS for strategic planning to select islands for tourism development for Ministry of Tourism. . January 2006: Local consultant for the Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) of Maldives Regional Development Plan, for AGRIFOR Consult Consortium, Belgium. . June 2006: Developed the Baa Atoll Resource Management GIS for Ministry of Environment and Energy. . August 2006: Consultant to the Integrated Climate Change System (ICCS) project – Assessment of vulnerability of Maldives Islands and Beaches to climate change . September 2006: Consultant to the ICCS project – Assessment of vulnerability of Maldives Infrastructure to climate change . November 2006: Consultant to the preparation of National Adaptation Programme of Action in Maldives for Ministry of Environment. . December 2006: Environmental Consultant to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Project: Disaster Risk Assessment of Selected nine Safe Islands in Maldives. . April 2007: Prepared the Coastal Erosion Assessment and Management Report for Ga.Meradhoo Island. . May 2007: Participated in the preparation of EIA for N. Randheli Resort Development Project, I&T Management group. . June 2007: Participated in the preparation of Millennium Development Goals, Maldives Country Report. . October 2007: Natural Hazard Assessment consultant to the UNDP Project: Disaster Risk Assessment of Selected Safe Islands in Maldives. . November 2007: Prepared the EIA for proposed coastal protection, beach replenishment and access improvement of Elaa, Thaa Atoll, for Mr Abbas Mohamed, H. Merry Rose. . May 2009: Participated in the preparation of EIA for sand sourcing and beach replenishment project of Viligilli Island, Addu Atoll, for Shangri-La at Viligilli.. . April 2009: Participated in the preparation of EIA for N. Maafaru Airport Development Project for Noonu Hotels Pvt Ltd. . May 2009: Participated in the preparation of EIA for resort development in Huvandhumaavattaru, Noonu Atoll . June 2009: Prepared a status of the environment report Randheli Island, Noonu Atoll. . July 2009: Prepared the Environmental EIA for harbour development in Fiyoari, Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll. . July 2009: Participated in the preparation of EIA for Jetty and arrival lounge development project in Gan, Addu Atoll, for Island Aviation Services Private Limited. . July 2009: Team Leader for the socio-economic risk assessment of Selected Safe Islands in Maldives. . August 2009: Coastal erosion data synthesis for selected islands of Maldives, for World Bank Maldives Environmental Management Project. . September 2009: Prepared the beach management plan and development control measures for Reethibeach Island Resort, Baa Atoll. . September 2009: Participated in the preparation of EIA for agricultural island development in Felivaru, Noonu Atoll, for Fantasy Private Limited. . September 2009: Consultant to review the safer islands programme and cost benefit study of mitigation measures in three islands in the Maldives for UNDP. . October 2009: Consultant to the Maldives Environmental Management Project for waste management technical assistance for World Bank. . December 2009: Environmental consultant for advising on resort development and development control measures in Randheli Island, Noonu Atoll. . January 2010: Prepared the beach management plan and development control measures for Shangri-La Island Resort, Addu Atoll. . January 2010: Consultant to the Atoll Ecosystem Conservation project conservation component defining conservation areas and development controls. . February 2010: Prepared the environmental audit of Thunbafushi Island, Kaafu Atoll, for Champa Brothers Private Limited.
Ahmed Shaig page 3
. March 2010: Prepared the beach management plan and development control for Herathera Island Resort, Addu Atoll. . March 2010: Lead author in the preparation of EIA for power plant upgrading project in Palm Beach Island in Lhaviyani Atoll. . April 2010: Lead author in the preparation of EIA for Seagrass removal and beach replenishment project in Olhuveli Island Resort and Spa, Kaafu Atoll. . April 2010: Prepared an EIA addendum for resort development in Gaakoshibee Island, Shaviyani Atoll. . May 2010: Consultant to undertake island environmental scoping studies in 30 islands in North Maldives to determine islands with resort development potential for GMR Group of India. . May 2010: Lead author in the preparation of EIA for harbour development project in Madidhoo Island, Shaviyani Atoll. . June 2010: Lead author in the preparation of EIA for deep piling project in Olhuveli Island Resort and Spa, Kaafu Atoll. . July 2010: Lead author in the preparation of EIA for the development of an aquaculture site in Kanduoigiri, Kaafu Atoll. . July 2010: Environmental planning consultant for Shangri-La at Viligilli Maldives, Addu Atoll. . July 2010: Environmental planning consultant to the Addu Land Use Planning project (including defining development controls) in Addu Atoll Maldives for South Province Office. . August 2010: Environmental Consultant for the Atoll Ecosystem Conservation Project to declare Baa Atoll as a UNESCO Biosphere reserve. . September 2010: Lead author in the EIA for Seagrass removal and beach replenishment project in Herathera Island, Addu Atoll. . September 2010: Lead author in the EIA for resort redevelopment in Vilamendhoo Island Resort, Ari Atoll. . September 2010: Lead author in the preparation of EIA for Gulhifalhu land reclamation project in Gulhifalhu, Male’ Atoll, for Capital Investment and Finance Limited, UK. . September 2010: Participated in the preparation of EIA for sewerage system development project in Miladhoo, Noonu Atoll. . October 2010: Consultant to undertake the coastal adaptation survey of 40 islands in Maldives for Ministry of Housing and Environment. . November 2010: Environmental consultant for advising on resort development and development control measures in Maamigili Island, Raa Atoll . January 2011: Lead author in the preparation of EIA for sewerage and water system development project in Hithadhoo Island, Addu City for Bi-water International Private Limited. . February 2011: Lead author in the preparation of EIA for sewerage and water system development project in Maradhoo Island, Addu City for Bi-water International Private Limited. . March 2011: Lead author in the preparation of EIA for sewerage and water system development project in Feydhoo Island, Addu City for Bi-water International Private Limited. . April 2011: Lead author in the preparation of EIA for sewerage and water system development project in Maradhoo-Feydhoo Island, Addu City for Bi-water International Private Limited. . May 2012: Coastal erosion mitigation assessment and planning for Six Senses Laamu, Laamu Atoll . January 2012: Lead author in the preparation of EIA for sewerage and water system development project in Fuvahmulah Island, Addu City for Bi-water International Private Limited. . February 2012: Coastal erosion mitigation assessment and planning for Fushivelavaru Island . March 2012: EIA for the proposed resort redevelopment project in Conrad Rangali Island for Champa and Crown Resorts . March 2012: EIA for the proposed resort redevelopment project in Gasfinolhu Island Resort, Champa and Crown Resorts . May 2012: Environmental consultant for advising on resort development and development control measures in Gasfinolhu Island, Male’ Atoll . June 2012: Environmental consultant for advising on resort development and development control measures in Nakachchaa Huraa Island, Male’ Atoll . April 2012: Member of the consultant team that prepared the Tourism Opinion and Profile Survey 2011, Ministry of Tourism. . October 2012: Environmental consultant to the preparation of 4th Tourism Master plan for Ministry of Tourism, Maldives. . November 2013: Environmental consultant for advising on land reclamation, resort development and development control measures in Dhiffushi Island Reef, Male’ Atoll.
Ahmed Shaig page 4
. January 2013: Environmental consultant for advising on resort development and development control measures in Hankede Island, Addu Atoll . January 2013: Environmental consultant for advising on resort development and development control measures in Hankede Island, Addu Atoll June 2013: Local Environment consultant to the WCCM project, HIDRIA and Aquatica, Spain.
Ahmed Shaig page 5
Membership of Professional Bodies . Member of Building Code Committee, Maldives . Member of Commission on Sustainable development . Member of the Technical Committee for Developing Spatial Plans for conducting tourism related activities in Ari Atoll. . Member of Climate Advisory Council to the President of Maldives 2009- to present. . Registered EIA Consultant in Maldives Environment Protection Agency roster.
Major Publications
SHAIG, A. (2001) "An Overview of Web Based Geographic Information Systems". In Proceedings: Thirteenth Annual Colloquium of the Spatial Information Research Centre. P.A. Whigham (ed). 2 - 5 Dec, Dunedin, New Zealand. University of Otago, pp.255-264.
SHAIG, A. (2006). Climate Change Vulnerability and Adaptation Assessment of the Coastal Infrastructure of Maldives. Technical Paper submitted to Maldives National Adaptation Plan of Action for Climate Change. Ministry of Environment, Energy and Water, Male', Maldives.
SHAIG, A. (2006). Climate Change Vulnerability and Adaptation Assessment of the Land and Beaches of Maldives. Technical Paper submitted to Maldives National Adaptation Plan of Action for Climate Change. Ministry of Environment, Energy and Water, Male', Maldives.
SHAIG, A. (2007) Land Study of Maldives, 2006. Ministry of Planning and National Development, Male’ Maldives.
SHAIG, A. and Aslam, M (2007) Detailed Island Risk Assessment Maldives Volume I to Volume IV – Natural Hazard Assessment (Final Draft). UNDP, Male’ Maldives
SHAIG, A. (2007) Detailed Island Risk Assessment Maldives Volume I to Volume IV – Environmental Vulnerability Assessment (Final Draft). UNDP, Male’ Maldives.
Academic Achievements
2001 Critchlow Associates Prize in Surveying, New Zealand. Prize awarded annually by University council for the highest standard of Achievement in Spatial Information Studies in University of Otago. 1994 Certificate for best results in General Certificate of Examinations, Advanced Level. Science Education Centre, Male’, Maldives
References
Hamdun Hameed David King, Dr. Member of Parliament Associate Proffessor Male’, Maldives James Cook University Tel: (+960) 3323414 Townsville, QLD,Australia, 4811 [email protected] Tel: (+61) 747 81 4441 ,Fax: (+61) 747 81 5581 Email: [email protected] Simad Saeed, Dr Managing Director, Peter Valentine CDE Consulting Head of School, TESAG Department Male’, Maldives James Cook University Tel: +960 777 7445 Townsville, QLD,Australia, 4811 Email: [email protected] Tel: (+61) 747 81 4441 ,Fax: (+61) 747 81 5581 Email: [email protected]
Ahmed Shaig page 6
Clarification
I, the undersigned, certify that to the best of my knowledge and belief, this CV correctly describes myself, my qualifications and my experience. I understand that any willful misstatement described herein may lead to my disqualification or dismissal, if engaged.
Signature Date: 15 July 2013
Ahmed Shaig page 7 PERSONAL DETAILS
Name in Full : Ali Moosa Didi Date of Birth : 18.06.1985 Gender : Male Nationality : Maldivian Address: Permanent : Saraasaruge Aage, S.Hithadhoo Neelonfaru Magu
Present : Ma. Rose Villa SE, 4th Floor Dhevina Magu Male’
Telephone : +960 9912001
EDUCATIONAL QUALIFICATIONS
Madharasthul Islamiya School
Certification, University of Cambridge General Certification of Education O/L
Subject English Mathematics Business Account Commerce Economics
Secondary School Certificate Islamic Studies Dhivehi Language
WORK PLACE DETAILS
Commerce Development and Environment Pvt. H. Orchidmaage, 4th Floor Ameeru Ahmed Magu, Male’, Republic of Maldives Telephone: + 960 3312514 Fax: + 960 3315926 E-mail: [email protected]
Page 1 of 3
EMPLOYMENT RECORD
January 2004 – December 2008 Commerce Development & Environment Pvt
Assistant Surveyor January 2009 – December 2009 Ryco Investment Pvt HR. Officer
January 2010 – To Current Date Commerce Development & Environment Pvt Surveyor
WORK EXPERIENCE
Assistant Surveying Officer (Sep 2008 – To Current Date) -Survey proposed areas for the new projects under the instruction of survey officer.
-Determine precise location and measurements of points, elevations, lines, areas, contours for the construction studying the morphology of the seabed mapmaking and for construction staking, defining and managing parcels data, as‐built and profiling.
-Utilize recourses to the optimum level.
-Use company civil/ survey software for contouring, setting alignments, setting points construction, land division.
‐Edits and troubleshoot incoming data collector files in accordance with company procedures.
Processing Survey Data’s Using Topcon Tools, Surfer, Sonar XP, etc
-Reviews and utilize survey crew field notes. -Imports verified data into the appropriate CAD drawing file, using company standards point layer management and description keys.
-Prepares survey drawings and documents using company standards, prototypes, templates and blocks.
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-Operate digital cameras and download photo files into database and/ or CAD drawings.
‐Utilize company scanners to transfer reference maps into CAD files to facilitate utility mapping and property line.
-To perform bathymetric and topographical survey before start of the Projects
-Plotting survey data using AutoCAD 2006‐2009
-Processing Survey Data’s Using Topcon Tools, Surfer, Sonar XP, etc.
-Modeling accurate contours
-Advanced at ESRI ArcGIS (ArcMap, Arc Catalogue)
-GPS, wetland vegetation species identification, extensive geological identification skills
-Preparation of survey maps
-Make sure all the survey instruments are working in good condition.
Page 3 of 3
Ali Nishaman Nizar G. Dhoores Villa, 20132 06th March 1988 (00) 960 778 5767 [email protected]
EDUCATION
Cyprus Forestry College (2006 - 2008) Adv. Diploma in Forestry Center for Higher Secondary Education (2004 - 2006) Edexcel - G.C.E. A’levels (Statistics, Business, Accounts) Cambridge - Certificate in Advanced English Majeedhiyya School (2001 - 2003) Cambridge - O’levels (Mathematics, Economics, Commerce, English, Accounts)
EXPERIENCE
Terrestrial Environment Consultant – CDE Consulting, (July 13 – Present) Provides technical assistance to various national and international projects, specifically providing input in areas such as; wetlands, agriculture, forestry, vegetation mapping, mangroves, waste management, composting…etc. Working on and contributing to several Environmental Impact Assessment studies.
Local Consultant – Vegetation Expert – Hidria, Spain, (May 13 – Aug 13) Worked as a local consultant for Hidria, on developing the Wetland Management Plan for Addu Hithadhoo Eidhigali Kilhli and Gn.Fuvahmulah Bandaara & Dhandimagu Kilhi.
Agriculture Implementation Officer (AIO) – Project Implementation Unit, MOFA (Oct 10 – Jun 13) Worked on the “Post-Tsunami Agriculture and Fisheries Rehabilitation Programme” & the “Fisheries and Agriculture Diversification Programme” Focal point for forming and mobilizing agriculture cooperatives in island based communities.
Head of Agriculture Research & Extension – Ministry of Fisheries and Agriculture (Jan 10 – Sept 10) Lead a team of 5 staff at the Agriculture Research and Extension Section in the Capital city and an additional 15 staff at our regional research centers in the North and South Devised agricultural research programs that develop and improve agriculture in a sustainable manner in the country.
Agriculture Officer – Ministry of Fisheries and Agriculture (Aug 08 – Dec 09) Handled the “Training & Extension Unit” (Agriculture Division). Planned and coordinated all agriculture related training programs in the Maldives on a daily basis according to the staff availability.
National Project Assistant – F.A.O, United Nations (Aug 06 – Oct 06) Worked on a Post-Tsunami forest rehabilitation project. Worked with international consultants on several aspects of Maldivian forestry, agriculture and especially focusing upon Maldivian Mangrove ecosystems. WORKSHOPS / SHORT-TERM TRAININGS ATTENDED
2009, . Workshop on Strengthening Plant Quarantine and Inspection, Male’, Maldives, 15-16 July 2009 . “Awareness of Food Security” Workshop, Male’, Maldives, 22nd October 2009 . Workshop on Updating and Finalization of the Agriculture Development Master Plan (ADMP), Male, Maldives, 21st December 2009
2010, . Fisheries & Agriculture Diversification Programme, Financial, Procurement & M&E Training, Male’, Maldives, 26-28 January 2010 . Team Leaders Meeting, 8th Virtual University for Small States of the Commonwealth’s (VUSSC) International Training and Materials Development Workshop, Singapore, 14-20 April 2010 . Prevention, Control and Management of Forest Invasive Species in South Asia, (by APFSIN), Male’, Maldives, 29th April 2010 . 8th Virtual University for Small States of the Commonwealth’s (VUSSC) International Training and Materials Development Workshop, Male’, Maldives, 15-31 March 2011 . Loan Administration Training, Hdh.Kulhudhuhfushi, Maldives, 3-8 July 2010 . Workshop to Finalize the Draft Pesticides and Plant Protection Bill, Male’, Maldives, 12-13 July 2010 . International Workshop on Climate Change Extreme Events Adaptation Practices and Technological Solutions, New Delhi, 16-18 August 2010
2011, . FADIP “Rolling Baseline Survey” Workshop, Male, Maldives, 2-3 March 2011 . Knowledge Sharing in Asia Workshop #3: Participatory Techniques in the Field, Godavri, Nepal, 30th March 2011 – 2nd April 2011 . Knowledge Sharing in Asia Workshop #2: Writing to Share Knowledge Effectively, Godavri, Nepal, 3-6 April 2011 . Consultation Workshop for Facilitators on Cooperatives and Business Development, UNDP Building, Male, Maldives, 21st April 2011 . AFE’s Workshop on “Value Chain Program Design”, Chiang Mai, Thailand, 12-16 September 2011 . Training of Trainers Workshop on Systematization, Nepal, 8-10 December 2011
2012, . Workshop on Knowledge Management, tools and techniques (as a trainer for the programme), Maldives, 29th November 2012 – 02nd December 2012 . Partnering 4 Development Forum, UNDP, Paradise Island Resort, 2nd December 2012
2013, . Consultative Workshop on ICRAF’s Capacity Development Strategy & ICRAF’s South Asian Partner’s Capacity Needs Assessment, BRAC (Bangladesh Rural Advancement Committee) Centre, 30-31 January 2013 . Certificate in Co-operative Poverty Reduction, Co-operative College of Malaysia, Malaysia, 3-21 March 2013
SKILLS ICT Competent (MS Applications, Corel Suite…etc) Flexible to travel at any time Able to Multi-task and work in stressful conditions Able to co-ordinate and work with CBPO’s / Co-operatives / NGO’s Decision Making Skills Logistical Planning Skills Good Interpersonal Skills Training Skills in “Agri-Business”, “General Agriculture”, “Hydroponics”, “Agro-Forestry”, “Home-gardening”, “Baseline Surveys” and “Co-operatives”.
MEMBERSHIPS IN PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATIONS Bluepeace - an Environmental NGO o Advisor on environmental and agricultural issues since the year 2009. o Participated in several beach and reef cleanup programs. o A member since the year 2008. United Artists of Maldives - an association focusing on Maldivian Art and Artisans o Sits in the Steering committee of UAM as the Media Coordinator, since January 2013 o Participated in the International Hay Festival Activities held in the Maldives in 2010. o A member since the year 2008. UN Global Compact Maldives Network - a network of local private sector parties o Representative for Addu Meedhoo Cooperative Society o Representative for CDE Consulting
REFEREES Dr. Ahmed Shaig, Director of Environment, CDE Consulting, [email protected] +9607788758
Dr. Aminath Shafia, Former State Minister, Ministry of Fisheries and Agriculture, [email protected] +9607792458
LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY Fluent in both writing and reading of Dhivehi (mother tongue) Fluent in both writing and reading of English AHMED HAIMAN RASHEED
PERSONAL DETAILS
Full Name: Haiman Rasheed, Ahmed NIRC: A297924 Gender: Male Date of birth: September 24, 1993 Place of birth: S.Feydhoo, Republic of Maldives Nationality: Maldivian
Permanent Address: Goal Corner S.Feydhoo 19040 Republic of Maldives
Contact Details: (Mobile): +960 7684393
Email for correspondence: [email protected]
EDUCATION
Year Name of Education Institute Title of Qualification Status
2007 – 2009 DHARUMAVANTHA SCHOOL GCE / IGCSE O’ Level under the curriculum Graduated of University of Cambridge
EMPLOYMENT HISTORY
Time Period Position Held, Employee Task assigned
February 2014 – Associate Consultant, CDE Consulting - Marine surveying (Conducting inspections, present surveys & examinations of reefs)
- Beach surveying - Compiling Marine reports (Prepare reports on types of surveys conducted August 2013 – Assistant technician, Ministry of Fisheries and - Designing the structure of FAD (Fish February 2014 Agriculture Aggregating Device) - Research on the status and pelagic fishes found near FADs
January 2011 – Research officer, CDE Consulting - Marine surveying (Conducting inspections, January 2012 surveys & examinations of reefs)
- Beach surveying - Compiling Marine reports (Prepare reports on types of surveys conducted December 2009 – Research officer, CDE Consulting - Marine surveying (Conducting inspections, June 2010 surveys & examinations of reefs)
- Beach surveying - Compiling Marine reports (Prepare reports on types of surveys conducted)
REFERENCES
Name Address, Telephone & Fax Email, Occupation & Business Title
Ahmed Shaig, PhD CDE Pvt Ltd Director 4th Floor, Orchidmaage CDE Pvt Ltd Ameer Ahmed Magu, Henveiru [email protected] Male’, Maldives (Telephone): +960 3312514 (Fax): +960 3315926
Ahmed Yameen Ministry of fisheries and agriculture Assistant director 7th Floor, velaanaage Ameer Ahmed Magu, Henveiru Male’, Maldives (Telephone): +960 3322625 (Fax): +960 3326558 Mohamed Faizan
Contact Details
Address: H. Pent Land, Lansimoo Goalhi, 20041 Male’, Maldives
Tel: +960-7501205
E-mail: [email protected]
Education
August 2012 – October 2014 University of Malaya, (Malaysia) - Master of Technology (Environmental management) - Dissertation title “Study on the impact of anthropogenic pressure on coral reefs around Cape Rachado, Malacca and recommendations to improve its management”
July 2006- June 2010 International Islamic University Malaysia, (Malaysia) - Bachelor of Biotechnology (Honours). - Final year thesis title “Spatio-temporal study on coastline changes along Tanjung Lumpur – Cherok Paloh Coast”.
June 2002 – June 2004 Centre for Higher Secondary School, (Maldives) - GCE Advanced level.
January 1997 – February 2002 Majeediyaa School, (Maldives) - GCE Ordinary level.
Employment History
July 2014 – Present CDE Consulting - Environmental Consultant at CDE Consulting. Roles and responsibilities include preparation of Environmental Impact Assessment reports, undertaking environmental baseline surveys, and conduct environmental monitoring.
June 2010 – July 2012 CDE Consulting - Environmental Consultant at CDE Consulting. Responsibilities included undertaking environmental baseline studies for Environmental Impact Assessments, and environmental monitoring. In addition, co-ordination of field surveys.
February 2005 – April 2006 Integrated Climate Change Strategy - Project Assistant for the Integrated Climate Change Strategy implemented by Ministry of Environment, Energy and Water (Maldives). - Responsibilities included assisting the project manager, in preparation of financial reports, organizing workshops. - Helped launch monthly newsletter on climate change “Nakaiy”.
EIA experience
Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Proponent Date
EIA for the proposed Malé-Hulhulé bridge Ministry of Housing and July 2015 - Undertook the marine baseline assessment surveys, Infrastructure and prepared marine assessment report
EIA for the proposed redevelopment of of Nasandhuraa Nasandhura Palace June 2015 Palace Hotel Hotel Investments - Undertook the marine baseline assessment surveys Private Limited
EIA for the proposed resort development in Shuaz Investment May 2015 Madivaru,Kaafu Atoll Private Limited - Undertook the marine baseline assessment surveys
EIA for the proposed Coral Reef rejuvenation project at Velaa Private Island March 2015 Velaa Private Island - Undertook the baseline assessment surveys, including stakeholder consultations. Complied the EIA report.
EIA for the proposed Coral Gardening at Shangri-La’s Shangri-La’s Villingili February 2015 Villingili Resort & Spa Resort & Spa - Undertook the baseline assessment surveys, including stakeholder consultations. Complied the EIA report.
EIA for the proposed sewerage system project at Male’ Water and April 2014 Kanditheem, Shaviyani Sewerage Company Pvt - Marine environment assessment and report for the Ltd EIA
EIA for the proposed beach replenishment project in Holiday Inn Resort April 2014 Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma, Maldives, South Male’ Kandooma Maldives Atoll - Marine environment assessment and report for the EIA
EIA report for the proposed sewerage system at Mr. Ibrahim Shazyl, February 2012 Maduvvari, Raa Atoll Venture Maldives Pvt - Undertook the baseline assessment surveys, Ltd including stakeholder consultations. Complied the EIA report.
EIA report for the proposed installation and operation of Mr. Ismail Shafeeu, January 2012 desalination plant at Hithaadhoo, Baa Atoll Static Company Pvt Ltd - EIA report compilation.
EIA report for the proposed Solid Waste Management Tatva Global Renewable December facility at Thilafushi Energy (Maldives) 2011 - Baseline marine assessments and EIA report Private Limited compilation.
EIA for the development of a domestic airport on Bonavvista (Maldives) October 2011 Koodoo, GA. Atoll Private Limited - Undertook baseline assessments for the EIA, and Singapore prepared the existing environment chapter for the EIA.
EIA prepared for the proposed harbor entrance channel Ministry of Housing and August 2011 dredging project in Bodufolhudhoo Island, North Ari Environment Atoll - Undertook the baseline assessments for the EIA, and prepared the existing environment chapter of the EIA and compiled the overall EIA report.
EIA prepared for the proposed re-development – phase I Mr. Hussain Afeef July 2011 of Gasfinolhu Island Resort, Kaafu Atoll, Maldives - Baseline marine assessments and report preparation for the EIA.
EIA prepared for the proposed re-construction of Ministry of Housing and March 2011 Shaviyani Foakaidhoo Harbour Environment - Undertook the marine baseline assessments and, prepared the marine assessment report for the EIA.
EIA for the sewerage system development in N. Miladhoo Works Corporation September - Marine environment assessments Limited 2010
Mohamed Ali
ID #: A 094918 Nationality: Maldivian Languages: English, Sinhalese, Dhivehi Date of Birth: 13/09/1983 Telephone: 960-790-6007 Email: [email protected]
Experience Marine Environmental Specialist June 2011- Present CDE Consulting
Marine Environment Officer July 2008 – May 2011 Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru
Freelance Lobster Hunter, Shark Fisherman Jan 2007 - July 2008 Laamu Atoll
Dock Assistant Sep 2006 - Jan 2007 Tourist Submarine Maldives
Education and Certifications PADI Rescue Diver June 2011 PADI Enriched Air Diver June 2011 Emergency First Responder May 2011
Basic Computer Science 2001 - 2006 Singapore Informatics, Colombo Sri Lanka
Profile I am very passionate about protecting the marine environment. After having worked as both a fisherman and a marine environment officer I am aware of the impact that human activity has on our fragile marine environment. My favorite activities are reef monitoring and planting coral gardens. With my undying passion for the underwater world and also with my vast experience diving all over the Maldives, educating people on the marine environment is my greatest mission, to ensure the preservation and protection of our most valuable treasure. Furthermore, I have got the opportunity to work besides the greatest marine experts in the world namely Prof. J.E.N. Veron,Dr. Norman Queen and Dr. Daphne G. Fautin.
References
N.D. Abdul Azeez Abdul Hakeem Former Director of Conservation Mobile: + 960 7784263 Banyan Tree Maldives
Dr. Steve Newman Former Marine Lab Manager at Banyan Tree [email protected]
Robert James Former Marine Lab Manager at Banyan Tree
Shahdha Sustainable Development Consultant CDE Consulting Pvt Ltd Phone: +960 9700169 E-Mail: [email protected]
Professional Experience
Sustainable Development Consultant
CDE Consulting Private Limited, Male’, Republic of Maldives. 1 March 2015- Present n Experience
Environmental Impact Assessments
• EIA for the proposed test drilling For Hulhule’-Male’ Bridge construction project • EIA for the proposed redevelopment of Nasandhura Palace Hotel, Male’ • EIA for the proposed Hulhule’-Male’ Bridge Project • EIA for the proposed construction of a 9-storey building at the compound of ADK Hospital, Sosun Magu, Male’, Maldives • EIA for the proposed tourist development project at Madivaru Island, Kaafu Atoll • EIA for the proposed land reclamation and resort development project in Ithaafushi Reef, South Male’ Atoll • EIA for the proposed resort development in Bodukaashihuraa, Alifu Dhaalu Atoll, Maldives
Surveys
• Maldives Visitor Survey 2015 for the Ministry of Tourism • Maldives Democracy Survey 2015 for International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES)
Environmental Monitoring Projects
• Environmental and Social Performance Annual Monitoring 2014 for Shangri-La’s Vilingili Resort & Spa, Addu Atoll, Maldives
n Key Skills and Competencies
• Ability to interpret environmental laws and regulations and act accordingly • Sound knowledge of environmental management procedures and assessment of risk • Solid understanding of waste management, climate change, disaster prevention and mitigation, and coastal environment and processes • Profound knowledge of sustainable development issues • Ability to assess and analyze complex social problems • Competent in identifying and communicating with stakeholders • Skilled in data collection, analysis and report writing
Clinical Assistant
Indhira Gandhi Memorial Hospital, Male, Republic of Maldives February 2010- December 2011
Relief Teacher
HDh. Atoll School, HDh. Vaikaradhoo, Republic of Maldives July 2009- November 2009
Academic Qualifications
Bachelor of Environments 2012-2014 Major: Environmental Geographies, Politics and Cultures,
The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
Advanced Level Edexcel Examination
Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) Examinations 2007-2009 Center for Higher Secondary Education, Male’, Republic of Maldives
Cambridge GCE O-level
IGCSE Examinations
Secondary School Certificate (SSC) Examination 2004-2006 Cener for Higher Secondary Education, Male’, Republic of Maldives
Achievements
§ Dean’s Honours Award for outstanding academic achievement in 2014 (University of Melbourne) 2014
§ Australian Development Scholarship 2011
§ Fourth place among the National Top 10 Achievers in the Higher Secondary School Completion Examinations 2009 2009
§ Second place among the National Top 10 Achievers in the Secondary School Completion Examinations 2006
§ Best All Round Student of H Dh. Atoll School 2006
§ Haveeru Atolls Scholarship Award 2007-2009
§ School Captain at H Dh. Atoll School.
§ Student Association’s Vice President in 2006 at H Dh. Atoll School 2006
§ Deputy and Acting School Captain in 2005 at H Dh. Atoll School
§ Student Association’s President in 2005 at H Dh. Atoll School 2005
Professional Development and Memberships
§ Member of the University of Melbourne Australian Awards Club 2013- 2014
§ Participated in the Women’s Mentoring Network at the University of Melbourne 2013
§ Completed a 21 hours course on Standard First Aid at the Faculty of Health Sciences, Maldives College of Higher Education 2010
§ Member of the Science Club at the Center for Higher Secondary Education 2007-2009
§ School Prefect Board member at the H Dh. Atoll School 2004-2006
Computer Skills
§ Experienced in using Microsoft office Word, Excel, Powerpoint and Project.
Language Skills
Understanding Speaking Writing
§ English Excellent Excellent Excellent
§ Dhivehi Excellent Excellent Excellent
AHMED NASHWAN ABDUL MATHEEN [email protected] [email protected]
EDUCATION
Jan 2013 to UNSW Australia Present Bachelor of Environmental Engineering High Distinction Average of 88 Recipient of the Faculty of Engineering Deans Award during 2014 and 2015 Invited to join the School of Civil and Environmental Engineering Elite Student Program during 2014 and 2015 Awarded the School of Civil and Environmental Engineering Elite Student Summer Scholarship 2014/2015
June 2009 to Villa International High School (VIHS) June 2011 EdExcel Advanced Level Certificate Achieved “A star” grade qualifications in all subjects
Awarded 4th place in National Top Ten Awards
Jan 2006 to Majeedhiyya School Dec 2008 Cambridge International Examinations Ordinary Level Certificate Achieved “A” grade qualifications in all subjects Awarded 2nd place in National Top Ten Awards Achieved the highest mark in the world in Computer Studies during the November 2008 Cambridge International Ordinary Level
examinations Achieved the highest national mark in Biology during the November 2008 Cambridge International Ordinary Level examinations
EMPLOYMENT
Dec 2014 to UNSW Australia Water Research Lab Feb 2015 Research Project on Coastal Monitoring Carried out research on the effectiveness and capabilities of modern coastal monitoring techniques, based on data from Narrabeen-Colloroy beach, NSW, Australia Involved in RTK GPS surveys of Byron Bay beach, NSW and Kingscliff beach, NSW for a coastal research project initiated by Dr Belinda Cooke from Macquarie University Prepared and presented a video at the AdaptNSW conference held in December 2015, which showcased the capabilities of coastal surveying using Unmanned Aerial Vehicles
Sept 2011 to Commerce Development and Environment (CDE) Pvt Ltd Sept 2012 Field and Research Assistant Assisted survey teams during monitoring and survey trips to sites Used MapInfo and ArcMap to prepare graphical representations of data gathered during survey trips
PUBLICATIONS
Peer-Reviewed Conference Papers CHRISTOPHER D DRUMMOND, MITCHELL D HARLEY, IAN L TURNER, A NASHWAN A MATHEEN & WILLIAM C GLAMORE 2015. UAV Applications to Coastal Engineering. Coasts and Ports. Auckland, New Zealand.
REFEREES
Dr. Ahmed Shaig Director, Commerce Development and Environment (CDE) Pvt Ltd Email: [email protected] Tel: +960 7788758
Dr. Stafford Valentine Redden Head of Department, Villa International High School Email: [email protected] Tel: +960 7765507
Ms. Zushan Kamaludeen Deputy Principal, Majeedhiyya School Email: [email protected] Tel: +960 7773296