EIA for the Proposed Coastal Protection at Dh

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT For Proposed Coastal Protection Works in Dh. Maaenboodhoo Island

November 2015

Prepared for: SAS e Senok JV Pvt. Ltd. Prepared by: Mohamed Zuhair (EIA01/15) & Ibrahim Shakir EIA for Proposed Coastal Protection Works in Dh. Maaenboodhoo November 2015

TABLE OF CONTENTS

ާސާ ލާ ހު ދާ ސާ ...... 8 1. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ...... 10 2. INTRODUCTION ...... 12 2.1 PROJECT BACKGROUND...... 12 2.2 PROPONENT AND CONTRACTOR ...... 12 2.3 BACKGROUND TO THE EIA ...... 13 2.4 RATIONALE ...... 14 2.5 EIA SCOPE AND APPROACH...... 14 2.6 REVIEW OF RELEVANT STUDIES ...... 16 2.7 EIA STRUCTURE ...... 16 2.8 IMPACT PREDICTION AND EVALUATION ...... 17 2.9 EIA TEAM ...... 17 3. STUDY AREA ...... 19 4. PROJECT DESCRIPTION ...... 23 4.1 PROJECT LOCATION ...... 23 4.2 JUSTIFICATION ...... 24 4.3 PROJECT OUTLINE ...... 25 4.3.1 Project Scope ...... 25 4.3.2 Detailed Design ...... 26 4.3.3 Excavation and Fill Material Sourcing ...... 27 4.3.4 Rock Boulder Revetments ...... 29 4.3.5 Geo-Bag Revetments ...... 29 4.4 PROJECT MOBILIZATION ...... 30 4.5 PROJECT INPUT/OUTPUT ...... 31 4.6 PROJECT SCHEDULE ...... 32 4.7 KEY ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND AFFECTED BOUNDARIES ...... 34 5. LEGAL, POLICY AND ADMINISTRATIVE FRAMEWORK ...... 35 5.1 APPLICABLE LAWS AND REGULATIONS...... 35 5.1.1 Environmental Protection and Preservation Act (Law No. 4/93) ...... 35 5.1.2 Maldives EIA Regulation, 2012 ...... 36 5.1.3 Environmental Damage Liabilities Regulation, 2011 ...... 37 5.1.4 Dredging and Reclamation Regulation, 2013 ...... 38 5.1.5 Waste Management Regulation, 2013 ...... 38 5.2 RELEVANT POLICIES ...... 38 5.2.1 National Framework for Development, 2009-2013 ...... 38 5.2.2 3rd National Environmental Action Plan, 2009-2013 ...... 39 5.2.3 Maldives national Strategy for Sustainable Development, 2009 ...... 40 5.2.4 National Solid Waste Management Policy, 2007 ...... 41 5.3 RELEVANT AUTHORITIES ...... 42 5.3.1 Ministry of Environment and Energy, MEE ...... 42 5.3.2 Environment Protection Agency, EPA ...... 42 5.3.3 Dh. Maaenboodhoo Island Council ...... 42 5.3.4 Dhaal Atoll Council ...... 43 5.4 PERMITS GIVEN AND REQUIRED ...... 43 Page 2

EIA for Proposed Coastal Protection Works in Dh. Maaenboodhoo November 2015

5.4.1 Dredging and Land Reclamation Approval ...... 43 5.4.2 Approval of the Detailed Design ...... 43 5.4.3 EIA Decision Statement ...... 43 6. EXISTING ENVIRONMENT ...... 44 6.1 DATA COLLECTION METHODS ...... 44 6.1.1 Geophysical Environment ...... 44 6.1.2 Climatic Environment ...... 44 6.1.3 Coastal Environment ...... 44 6.1.4 Marine Environment ...... 45 6.1.5 Socio-Economic Environment ...... 45 6.1.6 Uncertainties on Data Collection Methods ...... 45 6.2 GEOPHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT ...... 45 6.2.1 Geography ...... 45 6.2.2 Geology ...... 46 6.2.3 Topography and Geomorphology ...... 47 6.3 CLIMATIC ENVIRONMENT ...... 47 6.3.1 Climatic Setting ...... 48 6.3.2 Monsoons ...... 48 6.3.3 Temperature ...... 49 6.3.4 Sunshine and Rainfall ...... 49 6.3.5 Relative Humidity ...... 50 6.3.6 Winds ...... 50 6.3.7 Currents, Tides and Swells ...... 51 6.4 COASTAL ENVIRONMENT ...... 52 6.4.1 Beach and Coastal Area ...... 52 6.4.2 Coastal Dynamics and Erosion ...... 52 6.4.3 Lagoon Bathymetry ...... 55 6.4.4 Currents ...... 56 6.5 MARINE ENVIRONMENT...... 58 6.5.1 Assessment Locations ...... 58 6.5.2 Assessments on Coral Reefs ...... 58 6.5.3 Seagrass ...... 60 6.5.4 Seawater Quality ...... 61 6.5.5 Marine Protected Areas ...... 61 6.6 SOCIO-ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT ...... 62 6.6.1 Introduction to Dhaalu Atoll ...... 62 6.6.2 Population and Housing ...... 63 6.6.3 Health and Education ...... 63 6.6.4 Water, Sanitation and Energy ...... 63 6.6.5 Electricity ...... 63 6.6.6 Waste Management...... 63 6.6.7 Public Infrastructure ...... 64 6.6.8 Local Economy ...... 64 6.7 ENVIRONMENTAL VULNERABILITY ...... 64 7. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS ...... 70 7.1 METHODS ...... 70 7.1.1 Impact Prediction ...... 70

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7.1.2 Assessing Impact Significance ...... 70 7.1.3 Limitations and Uncertainties ...... 72 7.1.4 Justification of the Method Used ...... 72 7.2 IMPACT PREDICTION ...... 72 7.3 DESCRIPTION OF IMPACTS ...... 74 7.3.1 Construction Phase Impacts ...... 74 7.3.2 Post Construction Impacts ...... 78 7.3.3 Indirect Impacts ...... 78 7.3.4 Cumulative Impacts ...... 78 7.3.5 Positive Impacts...... 79 7.4 IMPACT ANALYSIS AND EVALUATION ...... 79 8. MITIGATION MEASURES ...... 80 8.1 CONSTRUCTION PHASE ...... 80 8.1.1 Mitigation Measures to Reduce Sedimentation ...... 80 8.1.2 Mitigation Measures to reduce Land filling Impacts ...... 81 8.1.3 Mitigation Measures to Reduce Revetment Construction Impacts ...... 81 8.1.4 Mitigation Measures to Reduce Construction Vehicle Impacts ...... 82 8.2 POST CONSTRUCTION PHASE ...... 82 8.2.1 Mitigation Measures to Reduce Flooding Risks ...... 82 8.2.2 Mitigation Measures to Reduce Damage to Geo-Bag Revetment ...... 83 8.3 COMMITMENT ...... 83 9. ALTERNATIVES ...... 84 9.1 NO DEVELOPMENT OPTION ...... 84 9.2 OTHER ALTERNATIVES ...... 84 9.2.1 Alternative Burrow Sites ...... 84 9.2.2 Alternative Coastal Protection Methods ...... 85 10. STAKEHOLDER CONSULTATION ...... 87 10.1 MAAENBOODHOO ISLAND COUNCIL ...... 87 10.2 MEETING WITH INDIVIDUALS FROM THE ISLAND ...... 88 10.3 MEETING WITH THE CONTRACTOR ...... 88 10.4 LIST OF PARTICIPANTS ...... 89 11 ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING ...... 90 11.1 BACKGROUND ...... 90 11.1.1 Aim ...... 90 11.1.2 Objective ...... 90 11.2 MONITORING REPORT ...... 91 11.2.1 Report Format ...... 91 11.2.2 Reporting Frequency ...... 91 It is important to ensure that monitoring of the environmental parameters mentioned above will be initiated during construction periods, which will be continued throughout the operation life cycle of the project. In this regard, the following measures will be followed...... 91 11.3 MONITORING PLAN AND COSTS ...... 92 11.4 COMMITMENT ...... 92 12. CONCLUSIONS...... 93 13. REFERENCES ...... 95 14. APPENDICES ...... 97

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LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 1: Location of Maaenboodhoo in Dhaalu Atoll ...... 20 Figure 2: Aerial view of the region in which Maaenboodhoo Island is found ...... 21 Figure 3: Study area boundary in Dh. Maaenboodhoo ...... 22 Figure 4: Areas covered as part of the proposed coastal protection works in Maaenboodhoo ...... 23 Figure 5: Impacts of beach erosion on the southern side of the island where fill material was previously used...... 24 Figure 6: Project scope ...... 25 Figure 7: Typical geo-bag revetment plan designed for Maaenboodhoo ...... 26 Figure 8: Typical rock revetment plan designed for Maaenboodhoo ...... 27 Figure 9: Burrow sites approved by EPA ...... 28 Figure 10: Proposed location and details of the temporary sandbed for unloading of rock boulders. 30 Figure 11: Detailed plan of the proposed temporary sandbed and the area ...... 31 Figure 12: Key impact boundaries ...... 34 Figure 13: Average temperatures for Regional Met Centers in 2013 (Source: Statistical Yearbook of Maldives 2014)...... 49 Figure 14: Monthly average sunshine and rainfall for Male’ for 2013 (Source: Statistical yearbook of Maldives 2014)...... 49 Figure 15: Average wind speed and direction (www.windfinder.com) ...... 51 Figure 16: Male’ tide predictions from 30 Sept – 8 Oct 2015 (www.tide-forecast.com) ...... 52 Figure 17: Comparison of shorelines in 2010 (left) and 2013 (right) ...... 53 Figure 18: Beach profiles taken around the island ...... 54 Figure 19: Lagoon bathymetry taken around the island ...... 55 Figure 20: Current measurements around the island ...... 57 Figure 21: Marine survey locations; R=reef assessment, S=seawater sample collection points ...... 58 Figure 22: Reef composition at surveyed sites from the reef of Maaenboodhoo ...... 59 Figure 23: Reef composition distinction between the two sites ...... 59 Figure 24: Reef fish assessment results at two locations ...... 60 Figure 25: Seagrass patches found on the southern side lagoon ...... 60 Figure 26: MPAs found in Dhaalu Atoll ...... 61 Figure 27: Tsunami hazard zones ...... 65 Figure 28: Tracks of cyclones affecting Maldives from 1877-2004 ...... 66 Figure 29: Tracks of cyclones passed within the scan radius of 500km...... 67 Figure 30: Regions to capture cyclones passing through Maldives for hazard zoning...... 67 Figure 31: 3D view of bathymetry of Maldives (depth in meters)...... 68 Figure 32: Storm surge hazard zones with cyclones affected ...... 68 Figure 33: Maldives seismic hazard zones ...... 69 Figure 34: Alternative burrow sites ...... 85

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LIST OF TABLES

Table 1: Key project inputs ...... 31 Table 2; Key project outputs ...... 32 Table 3; Project schedule ...... 33 Table 4: Key meteorological information of Maldives ...... 48 Table 5: Relative humidity recoded from Regional Met Centers for 2013 (Source: Statistical yearbook of Maldives 2014) ...... 50 Table 6: Seawater analysis results...... 61 Table 7: Population of AA Atoll (Source: Preliminary Results of Population and Housing Census, 2014, DNP) ...... 62 Table 8: Impact significance criteria ...... 71 Table 9: Significance rating matrix ...... 71 Table 10: Significance colour scale ...... 71 Table 11: Impact prediction table ...... 73 Table 12: Impact analysis table ...... 79 Table 13: List of persons consulted ...... 89 Table 14: Monitoring plan ...... 92

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CONSULTANT DECLARATION

I, Mohamed Zuhair, Registered EIA Consultant at the Ministry of Environment and Energy with the Registration Number EIA 01/15, hereby declare that the statements in this Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) Report for Coastal Protection Works to be carried out in Dh. Maaenboodhoo are true, complete and correct to the best of my knowledge and abilities.

The EIA Report has been prepared in accordance with EIA Regulation 2012, implemented by Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Name: Mohamed Zuhair (EIA01/15)

Signature:

Date: 12 November 2015

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EIA for Proposed Coastal Protection Works in Dh. Maaenboodhoo November 2015 1. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

The proposed project is to protect areas affected by beach erosion on the NE, SE, NW and SW of Dh. Maaenboodhoo Island by means of rock boulder revetment breakwater and geo- bag revetment. In this regard, it is proposed to build a 220m long rock boulder revetment breakwater along the NE side, 550m long rock boulder revetment breakwater along the SE side, 225m long geo-bag revetment along the NW shoreline and 190m long geo-bag revetment along the SW shoreline of the island. Furthermore, profiling and backfilling of beach areas on the NW and SW sides as well as obtaining core fill material for the rock boulder revetments are an important part of the proposed project.

As the proponent of the project, it is proposed by Ministry of Environment and Energy and has been awarded to Sas e Senok JV Pvt. Ltd. on design and built basis. As the contractor for the project, Sas e Senok JV Pvt. Ltd. has undertaken the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Report to be submitted to Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for approval.

This EIA is prepared as per the Terms of Reference (TOR) approved by Environment Protection Agency (EPA) on 23 September 2015.

The scope of this EIA is to assess the existing environmental condition of Maaenboodhoo Island and surrounding environment, identify potential environmental impacts, propose environmental management and mitigation measures to minimize environmental impacts as well as propose an environmental monitoring plan with appropriate environmental parameters to monitor changes during construction and post construction stages of the development.

Maaenboodhoo Island is found at Longitude 72.963335 and Latitude 2.695566 in a 5km long reef found on the southern periphery of Dhaalu Atoll. The island is found in the NE tip of the reef and has a NE-SW orientation. The longest point of the island has approximately 950m and the widest point has approximately 350m. The average area of the island is about 20.4ha.

Main environmental impacts from the proposed project will be from sedimentation including water quality deterioration, reef damage as well as direct destruction of lagoon habitats within the project boundary as well as permanent changes to the shoreline of the island where project activities will be implemented. Although, these impacts are inevitable, it is effects can be reduced by implementing various environmental management and mitigation measures

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EIA for Proposed Coastal Protection Works in Dh. Maaenboodhoo November 2015 such as undertaking the activities of the project coinciding with low tide and on calm days as well as undertaking the operations in the quickest possible timeframe to reduce impact exposure period and construct physical barriers to reduce sedimentation.

During post construction, environmental impacts identified include risk of flooding in land fill areas as well as physical damage to geo bag revetments as a result of excessive and some destructive use.

The key benefit of the project is to protect the shorelines of the island from further beach erosion and protect infrastructure on the island.

With regards to mitigating and reducing significant environmental impacts from the project, the following measures including use of physical barriers such as sand beds and undertake the activities in shortest possible time and on calm days at low tides, as well as directing sedimentation into the deep lagoon area and number of other measures have been proposed.

Although there are a number of environmental impacts from the proposed development, some of these can bring permanent changes to the environment of the island, other impacts can be reduced and mitigated by use of appropriate methodology. The effectiveness of these methodologies can be documented by implementing a comprehensive monitoring programme. Also, with positive social outlook of the project and considering the overall need for the project, it is concluded that the project should go ahead as planned.

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EIA for Proposed Coastal Protection Works in Dh. Maaenboodhoo November 2015 2. INTRODUCTION

2.1 PROJECT BACKGROUND

Sas e Senok JV Pvt. Ltd. has been awarded the Contract of Design and Build of Coastal Protection Structures in Dh. Maaenboodhoo Island on 20 July 2015 by Ministry of Environment and Energy. As the Contractor of the Project, it is the responsibility of Sas e Senok JV Pvt. Ltd. to design and construct the coastal protection structures and undertake other relevant work in accordance with the requirements of the project proponent, Ministry of Environment and Energy.

The aim of the proposed project is to protect areas affected by beach erosion on the NE, SE, NW and SW of the island by means of rock boulder revetment breakwater and geo-bag revetment. In this regard, the Ministry of Environment and Energy requires the Contractor to design and build a 220m long rock boulder revetment breakwater along the NE side, 550m long rock boulder revetment breakwater along the SE side, 225m long geo-bag revetment along the NW shoreline and 190m long geo-bag revetment along the SW shoreline of the island. Furthermore, profiling and backfilling of beach areas on the NW and SW sides as well as obtaining core fill material for the rock boulder revetments are an important part of the proposed project.

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

2.2 PROPONENT AND CONTRACTOR

The proponent of the proposed project is Ministry of Environment and Energy, Government of Maldives.

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The contractor of the proposed project is SAS e Senok JV Pvt. Ltd., a private company registered in the Maldives having the following contact details;

SAS E Senok JV Pvt. Ltd. M. Ibage, 1st Floor Iramaa Magu Male’ Maldives Tel: 333 1682 Fax: 330 1682 Email: [email protected]

2.3 BACKGROUND TO THE EIA

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

This EIA is prepared as per the Terms of Reference (TOR) approved by Environment Protection Agency (EPA) on 23 September 2015.

The approved TOR is attached in Appendix 1.

As the project involves small dredging works to be carried to obtain necessary core material for the revetments as well as for beach profiling and backfilling on required areas, a dredging and reclamation permit was obtained from EPA under the Dredging and Reclamation Regulation 2013 on 26 August 2015, prior to approval of the TOR for the EIA.

The dredging and reclamation permit is attached in Appendix 2.

Environmental clearance is obtained through submission and approval of the EIA from the EPA prior to commencement of any activity of the project.

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2.4 RATIONALE

The project has been proposed by Ministry of Environment and Energy in order to protect the beaches of the island especially in areas where beach erosion has been found to be quite severe. Beach erosion on the NW and SW parts of the island has been ongoing for some time now, which has been initiated during the initial harbor development works started on the northern side of the island. A geo-bag revetment has been proposed on both NW and SW sides of the island as coastal protection measure to protect these areas from further erosion.

A large harbor having 800ft by 220ft has been completed in 2014 and material obtained from the harbor basin and the access channel was used in backfilling the area as well as excess material was used on the NE and SE shorelines of the island, in order to protect these areas from beach erosion. Currently, severe erosion is found on these areas where the material was placed from the harbor works. In order to protect these areas, coastal protection measures, in terms of developing rock boulder revetments have been proposed on either side of the island where the fill materials were placed initially.

2.5 EIA SCOPE AND APPROACH

The scope of the EIA report is to assess, identify, predict and document potential environmental impacts from the proposed coastal protection project to be carried out in Dh. Maaenboodhoo. Hence, importance is given to document the whole project proposal in detail, identify the main environmental impacts that are associated with the proposed development and address the legal requirements that need to be taken into consideration while implementing this project. This document also addresses the existing environmental condition of the island and foresees the ways in which potential environmental impacts will be managed, mitigated and reduced.

Hence the key aims of the report are to;

 Describe in detail the proposed project;  Identify the need and justification for the proposed development;  Describe the existing biophysical environmental condition of the project site based on the findings undertaken during the site visits;

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 Assess, identify and predict potential environmental impacts of the proposed project;  Evaluate the significance and magnitude of impacts that will be generated; and identify and predict ways in which these environmental impacts will be minimized through appropriate environmental management and mitigation measures;  Develop a mechanism to closely monitor and understand the long-term effects and changes that may occur on the environment with respect to the available baseline information, mostly collected from field assessments and site visits;  Provide legal protection with regards to the proposed development activities;  Review the predictions and assessments made on environmental impacts that are associated with the proposed project activities; and  Provide public views of key stakeholders representing the island community on the proposed project.

In general, the EIA report has been based on the following sources of information:

 Review of available Project documentation;  Discussions at the EIA Scoping meeting held at EPA  Discussions with stakeholders;  Site visits to the island to undertake baseline environmental assessments;  Maldives Environmental Protection and Preservation Act No. 4/93;  Regulation on Environmental Impact Assessment of 2012  Dredging and reclamation regulation 2013  Maldives National Development Framework  The Consultant’s previous experience of undertaking EIAs for projects in the Maldives; and  Other relevant EIAs for similar projects that have been carried out in the Maldives.

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2.6 REVIEW OF RELEVANT STUDIES

As part of relevant literature review and preparation of the report, the following EIA studies have been used as reference in addition to personal experiences of the environmental consultant who have prepared this EIA Report. These are;

 Environmental Impact Assessment Report for Proposed Coastal Protection Works in Th. Veymandoo by Mohamed Zuhair in 2015.  Environmental Impact Assessment Report for Proposed Coastal Protection Works in Th. Kandoodhoo by Mohamed Zuhair in 2015

Both these coastal protection projects involve development of revetments, small scale dredging and beach profiling as part of the project, hence, have been used as reference material in order to understand the types, degrees and magnitudes of environmental impacts from dredging and reclamation in these islands. Also, these projects discussed different types of environmental impacts during construction and operation phases of the proposed development that are most severe as well as identify ways in which these environmental impacts are managed through implementation of mitigation measures.

2.7 EIA STRUCTURE

This document and its contents have been produced in accordance with the general EIA guidelines and scope of work for preparation of EIA for new developments. A summary of the main contents of this EIA is presented below;

 Description of the Project: A description of the overall project including coastal protection designs, extent of beach replenishment, and project justification, main project inputs and outputs, project schedule.  Legal Considerations: An assessment of the existing policies, laws, regulations that the project has to comply with, and information on relevant agencies responsible for environment administration, management and protection;  Existing Environment: An assessment of the existing environmental status of the affected area of Dh. Maaenboodhoo Island;

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 Potential Environmental Impacts: Prediction of potential environmental impacts and a detailed evaluation of these impacts through appropriate methods and means;  Environmental Management and Mitigation: Identification and assessment of the ways in which the environment of the project site be appropriately managed from resort construction and development;  Alternatives: Assessment of alternatives to various project activities such as land reclamation, coastal protection, methods, etc;  Stakeholder Consultation: Presentation of public views and opinion of the island community and concerned authorities; and  Environmental Monitoring: Development of an environmental monitoring plan with regards to long-term monitoring of various environmental aspects related to the project.

2.8 IMPACT PREDICTION AND EVALUATION

The key objective of an EIA is to assess in detail environmental impacts from a proposed project including identifying and predicting its type and evaluating its magnitude, scale, duration, etc. For the purpose of this EIA Report, the environmental impacts are predicted by use of widely used descriptive checklists and its significances are evaluated by use of a series of matrices. Expert judgment and professional opinion as well as review of relevant EIA studies have also been widely used throughout the impact assessment and evaluation process. These methods are described in detail at the relevant section of this EIA Report.

2.9 EIA TEAM

Mr. Mohamed Zuhair, EIA Consultant (EIA01/15) is a freelance Environment Consultant who has many years of experience in the field of environmental management, assessment and monitoring, implementation of environmental laws and regulations and has involved as lead consultant and a team member in preparing several EIAs in the Maldives.

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

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

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EIA for Proposed Coastal Protection Works in Dh. Maaenboodhoo November 2015 3. STUDY AREA

The main focus of the EIA is to undertake baseline environmental conditions of the project areas in Dh. Maaenboodhoo Island and surrounding environment with regards to identifying the existing status of the environments relevant for the proposed project.

The following figures show location of the island and the study area.

Figure 1: Location of Dh. Maaenboodhoo in Dhaalu Atoll

Figure 2: Aerial view of the region in which the island is found

Figure 3: Study area where data was collected for the EIA from Dh. Maaenboodhoo

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Figure 1: Location of Maaenboodhoo in Dhaalu Atoll

EIA for Proposed Coastal Protection Works in Dh. Maaenboodhoo November 2015

Figure 2: Aerial view of the region in which Maaenboodhoo Island is found

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Figure 3: Study area boundary in Dh. Maaenboodhoo

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4. PROJECT DESCRIPTION

4.1 PROJECT LOCATION

The following areas from the island have been considered for the proposed project development.

The proposed project involves to build a 220m long rock boulder revetment breakwater along the NE side, 550m long rock boulder revetment breakwater along the SE side, 225m long geo-bag revetment along the NW shoreline and 190m long geo-bag revetment along the SW shoreline of the island as indicated in the following figure.

Figure 4: Areas covered as part of the proposed coastal protection works in Maaenboodhoo

A tourist resort Niyama Island Resort and Spa by Per Aquum is developed on the two islands found on the SW side of the reef. It is located SW of Maaenboodhoo at a distance of 2.5km. The nearest inhabited island is Vaanee found to the NE at a distance of 5km and Kudahuvadhoo, the capital of the Atoll found on the SW at a distance of 8km.

4.2 JUSTIFICATION

Beach erosion has become a common phenomenon in many islands of the country, especially it is quite notable in many islands. The severity of erosion is different for different islands. Some islands are affected with beach erosion quite seriously.

As far as Maaenboodhoo is concerned, beach erosion is currently affecting the island on almost all areas of the island. Beach erosion on the NW and SW, especially on either side towards the tip of the island is believed to be quite serious and it is quite noticeable as well as important because of the spread of population and infrastructure on the area. On the NE and SE shorelines of the island, fill material obtained from the harbor development project in 2014 have been used as a protection measure due to erosion problems on these areas previously. Currently, serious erosion is seen on both these sides that now affect the new shoreline created after the fill material placed on these sides.

Figure 5: Impacts of beach erosion on the southern side of the island where fill material was previously used

As part of the ongoing efforts for protecting the islands by the Government of Maldives through Ministry of Environment and Energy, the island has been selected for implementing the coastal protection measures as a result of the seriousness of the issue. Page 24

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4.3 PROJECT OUTLINE

4.3.1 Project Scope

The scope of the proposed project involves;

a. Development of 225m long Geo-bag Revetment on NW side b. Development of 190m long Geo-bag Revetment on SW side c. Development of 220m long Rock Revetment on NE side d. Development of 550m long Rock Revetment on SE side e. Obtaining fill material for core revetment areas, beach profiling and backfilling areas from approved burrow sites f. Profiling and grading of fill areas

Figure 6: Project scope

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4.3.2 Detailed Design

Based on the environmental assessments undertaken in Maaenboodhoo on project sites, the contractor has developed the detailed design for the proposed geo-bag and rock revetments to be built on the required locations. Following are typical designs of the revetments.

Figure 7: Typical geo-bag revetment plan designed for Maaenboodhoo

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Figure 8: Typical rock revetment plan designed for Maaenboodhoo

The detailed geo-bag and rock revetment plans are attached in Appendix 3.

4.3.3 Excavation and Fill Material Sourcing

As part of the project, core material to be placed at the core of the rock revetments and profiling requirements for the geo-bag revetments as well as fill material requirements on the SE side shoreline, material sourcing locations have already been approved by EPA, which is the lagoon on the southern side of the island by the proposed rock revetment and lagoon on the western side of the island as indicated in the following figure. It is proposed to obtain 6,480cbm of core material, profiling material and fill material from these sites.

It is proposed to obtain these materials from approved sites 2 and 3 as indicated below. Site 1 which was proposed on the NE side of the island by the proposed rock revetment has not been approved.

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Figure 9: Burrow sites approved by EPA

Dredging and reclamation Permit and approved burrow site information are attached in Appendix 2.

Additionally, a sand stockpile is available from the harbour works carried out in the island previously, which will also be used during beach profiling and core material works. As this is an excavated material from the harbour basin, it will be initially graded and harvested before it will be used in the proposed project works.

The required fill material will be obtained by use of excavators, which will be transferred to the desired site by dump trucks. A temporary sand bed will be laid between the burrow site and the fill area for ease of transporting material, which will be removed upon completion of excavation works.

All dredging works will conform to the terms and conditions of the Agreement signed between the Proponent and the Contractor and will follow BS 6349, Part 5, Maritime structures of the Code of Practice for dredging and reclamation.

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Additionally, the boundary of the dredging area will have visible markers. The fill area will be levelled and graded as per the requirements and will ensure that the fill is free from accumulation of fines, including pockets of silt.

All filling and profiling works will be undertaken by use of excavators and dump trucks.

4.3.4 Rock Boulder Revetments

A 220m long rock revetment on the NE side and a 550m long rock revetment on the SE side have been proposed to be built as part of the proposed project. The agreed codes of practice in BS 6349, Part 1 and Part 2, Maritime structures will be followed.

The rock material that will be used in the revetment will have an apparent specific gravity of not less than 25KN/m3. All rock used in the revetment will not be less than 700kg per rock.

Placing the rocks will take place in a manner which will not damage the under laying layers of rocks. When placing the rocks, it will be aimed at having the rocks protrude the theoretical boundary over one third of its area.

When the revetment is completed, the armour layer will be in a thoroughly stable condition and with the exposed surfaces reasonably uniform in appearance.

4.3.5 Geo-Bag Revetments

A 255m long geo-bag revetment on the SW shoreline and a 190m long geo-bag revetment on the SW shoreline of the island have been proposed to be constructed. The agreed codes of practice in BS 6349, Part 1 and Part 2, Maritime structures will be followed.

Geo Bag material shall be porous, carpet-like materials, made from synthetic fibres. The material shall have a separation layer and shall be in the form of a thin permeable membrane.

The geo bag material shall be of polypropylene filter fabric and shall be resistant to air, water, chemical and bacteriological attacks. The material shall fulfill the International Classification (DIN 54307) Class 4. The fabric shall be manufactured with and preserve the following mechanical properties according to DIN 54307.

Weight of cloth Min. 300g/m2 Tensil strength in a) warp Min. 20 kN/m

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b) weft Min. 20 kN/m Elongation at break a) warp Min. 50% b) weft Min 50% Penetration strength Min. 3.3 kN

The details of the Geo Bag are attached in Appendix 4.

4.4 PROJECT MOBILIZATION

Project mobilization in terms of most of the required equipment and machinery is already available in Maaenboodhoo from the harbour development project, which was undertaken by the same contractor, SAS e Senok JV Pvt. Ltd., hence mobilization requirement will be minimal in this project.

However, in order to unload the required rock boulders, a temporary sandbed will be required on the northern side of the island by the proposed rock revetment. In this regard, a 40m long sandbed has been proposed by use of available material on the island as outlined in the following figure. Once the unloading of rock boulders have been completed, the temporary sandbed will be removed, which will then be used for other works of the project.

Figure 10: Proposed location and details of the temporary sandbed for unloading of rock boulders

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Figure 11: Detailed plan of the proposed temporary sandbed and the area

4.5 PROJECT INPUT/OUTPUT

Following the key project inputs and outputs.

Project Input Type Source Labor Foreign and local Contractor (10-15 persons) Technical personnel Foreign and local Contractor (2-3 persons) From burrow site, and rocks Fill material and rock Material imported and contractor’s boulder material Landing craft 450T, crawlers cranes (3), excavators (450, Machinery Contractor’s machinery 350, 330), wheel loader (3), dumpers (3) Spare parts for all Spare parts Contractor and local suppliers machineries Water supply During construction From the island Contractor and locally Fuel supply Diesel, petrol, lubricants purchased Locally arranged and hired Food and accommodation During construction from the island Fire extinguishers, first aid, Health and safety Contractor safety equipment

Table 1: Key project inputs

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Project Output Quantity Disposal Method Excavated material 6,480cbm Fill material from burrow site Constructed on NE and SE Rock revetment 220m and 550m long sides Constructed on NW and SW Geo-bag revetment 255m and 190m long shorelines Construction waste Small Re-used Re-used or stocked to transfer Oil and lubricant waste Small for final disposal in Thilafushi Air and Noise Pollution Small Fixed working hours

Table 2; Key project outputs

4.6 PROJECT SCHEDULE

Following is the project schedule.

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Table 3; Project schedule

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4.7 KEY ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND AFFECTED BOUNDARIES

The proposed coastal protection works in terms of construction of the geo-bag and rock revetment, excavation of fill material from the lagoons in Dh. Maaenboodhoo is believed to generate a number of environmental impacts both during construction and post construction phases. During construction, movement of rock boulder within the lagoon as well as filling operations of the geo-bags and excavation of fill material are believed to generate the key environmental impacts on the immediate coastal and surrounding marine environment. Major environmental impacts are believed to generate from sedimentation during the construction operations, which have been identified to be of short-term in nature and long-terms changes in the oceanography and hydrodynamics around the island has also been identified as a key environmental impact.

During post construction, the environmental impacts will be less, however, may pose some risks of flooding of the fill area due to heavy weather as well as damages to the geo-bag revetment due to excessive use.

Figure 12: Key impact boundaries

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EIA for Proposed Coastal Protection Works in Dh. Maaenboodhoo November 2015 5. LEGAL, POLICY AND ADMINISTRATIVE FRAMEWORK

The proposed coastal protection works to be carried out in Dh. Maaenboodhoo Island has to comply with relevant laws and regulations, in particular Environmental Protection and Preservation Act (No. 4/93) of Maldives and EIA Regulation 2012. Thus, it must follow the EIA process and get approval before the project starts implementation. This section outlines and summarizes key policies, applicable laws and regulations that the project has to comply with and regulatory bodies regarding environmental protection in the Maldives that are relevant for the project.

5.1 APPLICABLE LAWS AND REGULATIONS

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

5.1.1 Environmental Protection and Preservation Act (Law No. 4/93)

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

Clause 2 of the EPPA mandates the Ministry of Environment and Energy to formulate policies, rules and regulations regarding the environment.

Clause 5 of this Act specifically provides for environmental impact assessment (EIA), a tool implemented to attempt to integrate environmental issues into development decisions.

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According to the Clause, environmental impact assessments are a mandatory requirement for all economic development projects.

Clause 6 of the EPPA gives the Ministry of Environment and Energy the authority to terminate any project that has an undesirable impact on the environment.

Clause 7 of the EPPA refers to the disposal of oil, wastes and poisonous substances in to the Maldivian territory. According to this clause, any type of waste, oil, toxic gas or any substance that may have harmful effects on the environment should not be disposed within the Maldivian territory. If, however, the disposals of such substances become absolutely necessary, the clause states that they should be disposed only within the areas designated for that purpose and if incinerated, appropriate precautions should be taken to avoid harm to the health of the population.

Furthermore, clause 9 sets a fine between five and five hundred Rufiyaa for minor offenses in breach of this law and a fine of not more than one hundred million Rufiyaa for major offenses. The fine shall be levied by the Ministry of Environment and Energy or by other government authorities designated by that Ministry in case of minor offenses.

Finally, Clause 10 of EPPA gives the government of the Maldives the right to claim compensation for all damages caused by activities that are detrimental to the environment.

The Environmental Act or Law 4/93 is the single most important legal instrument with regards to environmental management and it gives very high prominence towards safeguarding the environment with regard to all the development activities. Under this Act, the Ministry of Environment and Energy have developed regulations and guidelines concerning the environmental protection through implementation of EIA procedures.

5.1.2 Maldives EIA Regulation, 2012

The most important regulation concerning the proposed development is Environment Impact Regulations, 2007, which was amended in 2012 is enforced under Environment Protection and Preservation Act (Law No. 4/93) by EPA. The Clauses of Environment Protection and

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Preservation Act address the following that relate to the proposed project development and implementation.  An impact assessment study shall be submitted to the relevant Government authority before implementing any development project that may have a potential impact on the environment  The relevant Authority of Government shall formulate the guidelines for environmental impact assessment and shall determine the projects that need such assessment as mentioned in above.  The Termination of projects. The relevant Government Agency has authority to terminate any project that has any undesirable impact on the environment. A project so terminated shall not receive any compensation  Waste Disposal, Oil and Poisonous Substances. Any type of waste, oil, poisonous gases or any substance that may have a harmful effect on the environment shall not be disposed within the territory of the Maldives  Government of Maldives reserves right to claim compensation for all the damages that area caused by the activities that are detrimental to the environment.

5.1.3 Environmental Damage Liabilities Regulation, 2011

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

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

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5.1.4 Dredging and Reclamation Regulation, 2013

Regulation on Reclamation and Dredging of islands lagoons (Regulation 2013/R-15) came into effect in April 2013. The regulation requires having permission of EPA on projects requiring alternation of the island, either by reclamation or dredging. Specifically the regulation requires producing scaled-maps of the island before and after the proposed intervention. Special provisions have been made on protected and sensitive area restricting changes to the environment of the islands.

5.1.5 Waste Management Regulation, 2013

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

5.2 RELEVANT POLICIES

5.2.1 National Framework for Development, 2009-2013

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

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

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

5.2.2 3rd National Environmental Action Plan, 2009-2013

NEAP 3 sets out the agenda for environmental protection and management in the Maldives for the five year period 2009 – 2013. This plan is targeted to achieve measurable environmental results that matter to the people of the Maldives.

The aim of developing NEAP 3 is to protect and preserve country’s environment and properly manage natural resources for sustainable development of the country and

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EIA for Proposed Coastal Protection Works in Dh. Maaenboodhoo November 2015 encompasses ten principles, six strategic results with targeted goals to be achieved under each result.

The key principles of the NEAP 3 are;

Principle 1: Environmental protection is the responsibility of every individual Principle 2: Achieve results Principle 3: Promote and practice sustainable development Principle 4: Ensure local democracy Principle 5: Inter-sectoral co-ordination and co-operation Principle 6: Informed decision making Principle 7: Precaution first Principle 8: Continuous learning and improvement Principle 9: Right to information and participation Principle 10: Environmental protection complements development

The six strategic results of NEAP3 are: resilient islands; rich ecosystems; healthy communities; safe water; environmental stewardship; and a carbon neutral nation with 30 result oriented environmental goals that will be achieved in the span of the NEAP 3.

5.2.3 Maldives national Strategy for Sustainable Development, 2009

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

The guiding principles outlined in the NSSD are;

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

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

5.2.4 National Solid Waste Management Policy, 2007

As waste management has been identified as a key environmental issue in the Maldives, a National Solid Waste Management for the Republic of Maldives was developed in 2007 as an important step towards mainstreaming waste management in the country. The key strategic principles outlined in the document include; establishing polluter pay principles, integrated solid waste management, best practice environmental option (BPEO), best available technology not entailing excessive costs (BATNEEC), proximity principle and private sector participation. It is an important priority of the Government of Maldives as identified in the policy document to setup regional waste management facilities and island waste management centers and decentralizing waste management administration. Hence, the key policies relevant to this project include;

Policy 1: Establish a governance structure for solid waste management which will distribute clearly delineated roles and responsibilities for solid waste management at island, regional and national levels Policy 2: All waste producers have a duty to manage the waste they generate Policy 3: Waste will be management and disposed as close as possible to the place of their generation

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Policy 8: Private sector participation (PSP) will be facilitated where it is financially for both government and private sector.

Establishing a proper mechanism of waste management and disposal will be vital for the overall operation of the project and the waste management practices both during construction and operation of the project will closely adhere to the policies and principles taken as a priority of the government.

5.3 RELEVANT AUTHORITIES

5.3.1 Ministry of Environment and Energy, MEE

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

5.3.2 Environment Protection Agency, EPA

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

5.3.3 Dh. Maaenboodhoo Island Council

Under the Maldives Decentralization Law, elected City Councils, Atoll Councils and Island Councils have been formed as regulatory bodies dealing directly with City, Atoll and Island issues. In this regard, some of the development projects are subject to approval of these councils through a stakeholder consultation process.

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With regards to the proposed coastal protection works to be carried out in Maaenboodhoo Island, the Maaenboodhoo Island Council acts as the key liaising local council.

5.3.4 Dhaal Atoll Council

As outlined in the Maldives Decentralization Act and similar to the role of the island councils, the Atoll Councils also plays a key role in terms of administration and approving to certain extent some of the works carried out in respective atolls. In this regard, Dhaalu Atoll Council has to be notified with the proposed development, the EIA Report as well as the decision of the EIA Report with regards to the proposed coastal protection works to be carried out in Dh. Maaenboodhoo Island.

5.4 PERMITS GIVEN AND REQUIRED

The following two environmental permits will be required in order for the project to start implementation. These include;

5.4.1 Dredging and Land Reclamation Approval

This approval is given by EPA to carry out sand excavation activities that form part of the project. This approval for the proposed project has already been given by EPA (Appendix 2).

5.4.2 Approval of the Detailed Design

The detailed design has to be prepared by the contractor based on the field assessments and as per the approved concept. The detailed design has to be approved by the Proponent, Ministry of Environment and Energy and it is yet to be approved (Appendix 3).

5.4.3 EIA Decision Statement

The most important environmental permit to initiate the proposed coastal protection project in Dh Maaenboodhoo Island would be a decision regarding this EIA from the EPA. The EIA Decision Statement, as it is referred to, shall govern the manner in which the project activities must be undertaken. It is the final environmental clearance granted by the EPA for the proposed project.

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EIA for Proposed Coastal Protection Works in Dh. Maaenboodhoo November 2015 6. EXISTING ENVIRONMENT

This section outlines the key existing environmental conditions of the project site, especially areas where the proposed coastal protection works will be implemented and boundaries where the project is believed to impact the environment.

6.1 DATA COLLECTION METHODS

This EIA is based on both qualitative and quantitative data collected from the erosion affected area and dredging area of Maaenboodhoo and published information, where site specific information was not available. Also, the report addresses major information requirements as outlined in the Terms of Reference (TOR) for preparing this EIA Report.

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

6.1.1 Geophysical Environment

Mostly a descriptive analysis from the field surveys as well as published secondary information, aerial photography, Google Earth maps and information available online from websites were used.

6.1.2 Climatic Environment

Site-specific climate information was not available for Dh Maaenboodhoo Island. Climate data from the Maldives Meteorological Services collected from Ibrahim Nasir International Airport and relevant data from websites were used in the general description of the climate environment to generalize site conditions.

6.1.3 Coastal Environment

A GPS was used to collected information on the existing shoreline affected by beach erosion in Maaenboodhoo Island. A bathymetric survey using an echo-sounder and GPS was undertaken in the lagoons to identify nearshore depths of the affected area. Echo sounder measurements were corrected and related to the mean sea-level for the area. A drogue and a

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GPS were used to identify the currents around the project area in two locations. Beach profiles were undertaken by using a standard leveler and profile locations were geo- referenced.

6.1.4 Marine Environment

Coral reefs and lagoon environments that may be impacted from the proposed activities were assessed visually and by use of 1x1 several and random photo quadrats. Seawater sample was collected and analysed from MWSC laboratory to establish seawater quality prior to the project implementation.

6.1.5 Socio-Economic Environment

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

6.1.6 Uncertainties on Data Collection Methods

Limited time spent on site has been the key limiting factor to get a more detailed assessment on all environmental aspects surrounding the project area. Some of the methods used are quite rapid, such as those undertaken on the marine and lagoon environment. Nonetheless, most of the assessments, including seawater, beach profiles, reef health, bathymetry and drogue were done in accordance with the TOR and reflect the general existing environment of the island at the time of these assessments.

6.2 GEOPHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT

6.2.1 Geography

A tourist resort Niyama Island Resort and Spa by Per Aquum is developed on the two islands found on the SW side of the reef. It is located SW of Maaenboodhoo at a distance of 2.5km.

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The nearest inhabited island is Vaanee found to the NE at a distance of 5km and Kudahuvadhoo, the capital of the Atoll found on the SW at a distance of 8km.

6.2.2 Geology

There is no site-specific information available on the geology and seascape of Maaenboodhoo Island. Therefore, published information on geological setting of the Maldives was generalized to understand the geological condition of the island.

In geological terms, the Maldives are the summit of a submarine mountain chain, which begins 300 or 400km west of India, and then extends over 2300km to the south. This underwater mountain or linear ridge rises from the ocean bottom at depths of about 4000m. As this ridge is a major site of reef limestone development in the Indian Ocean, atolls and islands are entirely made up of limestone structures. The atolls of the Maldives rise from 350- 450m depth from this ridge, which largely owes to coral reef formations over a long period of time. The formations of coral reefs die in time and space, and new reefs grow on top to replace old reef structures to form atoll shapes. The reefs in which the atolls are found serve as the foundation for the islands, which is also the result of reef limestone development within the atoll structures.

Maaenboodhoo Island is formed on the NE tip of the reef found on the southern periphery of Dhaalu Atoll. It is believed that the formation of the island may have initiated from the SE and gradually extended towards the west and north. The mature and well established island and vegetation on this part has been observed.

The reef is believed to be established and well developed all around the stretch. Gentle reef slopes have been observed on the southern side of the reef system with very distinct reef flat areas. The depths in the outer atoll side on the south may vary from 50-100m, while on the inner atoll side the depths may vary from 30-60m. No unusual geological features are found in the island. A deep lagoon exists on the western side of the island that stretches towards the SW right up to the other islands (Niyama) on the SW. The shoreline on the northern half on the western side is directly exposed to this deep lagoon.

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6.2.3 Topography and Geomorphology

The topography of Maaenboodhoo Island is typical of Maldivian islands with limestone structure and coralline topsoil forming the basis of the island. The average height of the island is 1.3m above MSL. The key characteristic of the topography of the island is presence of very dark and rich soil, hence presence of good and healthy vegetation.

Maaenboodhoo is a mature island with dense and mature vegetation. Palm trees dominate as the major vegetation content. Other large and typical island vegetation found on the island includes Funa, Kaani, Nika, Hirundhu, Dhigga, Uni, Magoo, Kuredhi, Boashi. Good humus topsoil is observed on the island with healthy vegetation.

A unique feature found on the island is extended island-like outcrop developed on the SE side of the island with its development right up to the reef areas. As a result of the this natural feature, nearshore sediment movement on the island has been observed to be limited as it acts as a barrier. The beach development on this part is very limited as it is very close to the reef and directly exposed to the sea.

The island is not noted for having exclusive beach areas. Although the southern side of the island has a long beach of around 800m, the width of the beach is observed to be less than 5m. A small beach area is found on the western tip of the island, which is believed to be dynamic and has a seasonal movement. The reef extend found on the direct south is largest having over 260m. The reef extent on the north is observed to be small having around 88m. The lagoons found all around the island are shallow except for the northern part on the west where the deep lagoon starts.

6.3 CLIMATIC ENVIRONMENT

As site specific climate information from Maaenboodhoo was not obtained, information available from the Maldives Meteorological Services, websites on general weather conditions as well as secondary data was used to describe the environment.

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6.3.1 Climatic Setting

The Maldives, in general, has a warm and humid tropical climate with average temperatures ranging between 25oC to 30oC and relative humidity ranging from 73 per cent to 85 per cent. The country receives an annual average rainfall of 1,948.4mm. There is some variation of climate between northern and southern atolls. The Table below‎ provides a summary of key meteorological findings for Maldives. General studies on climatic conditions of Maldives were taken into account during study as local level time-series data are limited for longer periods at the nearest meteorological station.

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 30.0oC in November 1973 31.7oC in April Extreme Air Temperature 34.1oC in April 1973 17.2oC in April 1978 Average wind speed 3.7 m/s in March 5.7 m/s in January, June Maximum wind speed W 31.9 m/s in November 1978 Average air pressure 1012 mb in December 1010 mb in April Table 4: Key meteorological information of Maldives

6.3.2 Monsoons

Maldives is in the Monsoonal Belt in the North Indian Ocean. Therefore, climate in the Maldives is dominated by south-west (Hulhangu) and north-east (Iruvai) monsoons. The southwest monsoon is the rainy season which lasts from May to September and the north-east monsoon is the dry season that occurs from December to February. The transition period of the south-west monsoon occurs between March and April while that of the northeast monsoon occurs from October to November. These monsoons are relatively mild due to the country’s location on the equator and strong winds and gales are infrequent in the Maldives. However, storms and line squalls can occur, typically in the period May to July. The winds usually get stronger in the south west monsoon especially during June and July. During storms the impact is greater on the northern atolls than the southern atolls.

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6.3.3 Temperature

Site-specific information on temperature of Maaenboodhoo was not obtained. However, data collected for the period of 2013 by the Meteorological Center from the Regional Met Offices was obtained from the Statistical Year Book of Maldives 2013 to get a clear picture on the maximum and minimum average annual temperatures throughout the country.

Figure 13: Average temperatures for Regional Met Centers in 2013 (Source: Statistical Yearbook of Maldives 2014)

As can be seen from the above figure, there is very little temperature variation throughout the country. The maximum temperature is between the ranges of 30 - 31.3oC and minimum temperature is between the ranges of 24.7 - 26.3oC.

6.3.4 Sunshine and Rainfall

The average monthly sunshine and rainfall data for Male’ region for 2013 was obtained from the Statistical Yearbook of Maldives 2014.

Figure 14: Monthly average sunshine and rainfall for Male’ for 2013 (Source: Statistical yearbook of Maldives 2014)

The highest sunshine hours during 2013 was received during April, which was 295hrs. The lowest sunshine hours during the same period was received during June having 190hrs. A total of 2,796hrs of sunshine was received during 20130 for Male’. Page 49

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Annual average rainfall in Maldives is about 1900mm. There is a marked variation in rainfall across Maldives with an increasing trend towards south. The annual average rainfall in north is 1977mm and for south is 2470mm.

The southwest monsoon is known as the wet season with monthly average rainfall ranging from 125-250mm. The northeast monsoon is known as the dry season with average monthly rainfall of 50-75mm.

The highest rainfall for Male’ during 2013 was received in May, having 493mm and the lowest during the same year was in February having only 25.5mm. A total of 2,081mm of rainfall was received during 2013 for Male’. Also, the first three months of 2013 was considered to be the dry period in the region.

6.3.5 Relative Humidity

The relative humidity in the Maldives is fairly high and constant. The average humidity in the country is estimated to be around 75%.

Table 5: Relative humidity recoded from Regional Met Centers for 2013 (Source: Statistical yearbook of Maldives 2014)

The highest relative humidity during 2013 was in May, June and October having 83 - 80% respectively for Male’ region. The lowest for the same year was in April and July having 77%.

6.3.6 Winds

The average wind speed for the sum of the years (2002-2014) is 10 knots for the entire country and the predominant wind directions are W, WSW and WNW, which is the main feature during the SW monsoon. During the NE monsoon, predominant wind occurs from ENE direction with an average wind speed of 6-7 knots. Thus, strong winds are associated

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EIA for Proposed Coastal Protection Works in Dh. Maaenboodhoo November 2015 with the southwest monsoon season. Gales are uncommon, and cyclones are very rare in the Maldives.

Figure 15: Average wind speed and direction (www.windfinder.com)

6.3.7 Currents, Tides and Swells

Tidal currents as well as oceanic currents are felt in the atoll. The exposure of the Atoll to the vast Ocean ensures that an immense body of water is constantly flowing across the atoll. The currents can be extremely strong in the channels between the reef systems around the atoll especially during ebb and flow into the atoll.

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

Like most of the places semidiurnal tides are experienced in the atoll, that is two high tides and two low tides a day. The tide varies from place to place, depending on the location and on the shape and depth of the basin, channels and reefs and also time of the year. The following figure shows tidal prediction for 30 September – 8 Oct 2015, taken from taken from www.tide-forecast.com accessed on 30 September 2015. Male’ is the closest area to Dhaal Atoll where tide prediction was obtained.

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Figure 16: Male’ tide predictions from 30 Sept – 8 Oct 2015 (www.tide-forecast.com)

6.4 COASTAL ENVIRONMENT

6.4.1 Beach and Coastal Area

Extensive beach areas are not found in Maaenboodhoo Island, which is probably attributed to its natural formation. The island-like outcrop development on the SE side hinders nearshore sediment movement as it acts like a groyne or a barrier. Usable beach areas are found on the corner of the NE side and western side directly exposed to the deep lagoon as well as western tip of the island. The beaches found in these areas are observed to be having less than 5m. The deep lagoon found on the western side is extensively used for boat mooring purpose and beach extension is not possible due to the nearshore depths.

6.4.2 Coastal Dynamics and Erosion

Beach dynamics of the project area was studied by taking beach profiles, transacts, comparison of aerial photographs in 2010 and 2013 from Google Earth and that of the shoreline survey undertaken in 2015. It was found that no major changes have occurred since 2010, however, development of the harbor on the north may have triggered some erosion on the north as well as placement of the fill material from the harbor may have affected the NW and SW beach areas, which now requires coastal protection.

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Figure 17: Comparison of shorelines in 2010 (left) and 2013 (right)

As can be noted from the above figure, no significant changes have occurred from 2010 to 2013, however the NW and SW shoreline have been affected, most probably as a result of development of harbor, which initiated in 2013 as seen on the above figure. Some erosion may have also taken place close to the western tip of the island. No significant change observed on the eastern half of the island. However, based on the field asessments undertaken in October 2015, beach erosion on either side on the eastern part is now affected by beach erosion.

Also, beach profiles taken from the area indicate heavy scouring of beach material especially in the affected areas. As can be seen from the profiles, P5 and P4 have drastic drops in the beach slope which indicates heavy scouring in the area. On the western side P1 and P2 areas are also affected by erosion.

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Figure 18: Beach profiles taken around the island 6.4.3 Lagoon Bathymetry

Figure 19: Lagoon bathymetry taken around the island Bathymetry taken around the project area indicates that the near shore depths are between 0.4m – 1m where most parts of the proposed project development will take place.

6.4.4 Currents

Current measurements have been taken from three locations; north, south and eastern lagoon of the island. Currents in the north had an easterly flow at a speed of 0.16m/s, and currents on the south had a northerly flow at a speed of 0.07m/s. However, stronger currents have been observed on the eastern side of the island at a speed of 1.21m/s where the flow was northwesterly. The strong currents in this area was observed to be as a result of swells generated from the southern part of the reef, where it enters into the atoll on the eastern channel.

Figure 20: Current measurements around the island 6.5 MARINE ENVIRONMENT

6.5.1 Assessment Locations

The following areas of the marine environment have been assessed both qualitatively and quantitatively in order to understand the current status.

Figure 21: Marine survey locations; R=reef assessment, S=seawater sample collection points

6.5.2 Assessments on Coral Reefs

Coral reef assessments were carried out on two locations, one on the reef crest of north and one on the reef flats of south as indicated in the above figure. The reef extent on the south was observed to large having around 220m with wide reef flat areas. On the north the reef extent is around 88m and there are limited lagoon areas. However, reef flat area are observed to be quite defined and wide.

Both these area fall within the direct impact zone of the proposed project, hence, long-term monitoring will show how the project has impacted the natural environment found in these areas.

The following figure summarizes the main findings of the reef assessment carried out on the two locations of the reef of Maaenboodhoo Island.

EIA for Proposed Coastal Protection Works in Dh. Maaenboodhoo November 2015

Figure 22: Reef composition at surveyed sites from the reef of Maaenboodhoo

The two sites surveyed have different characteristics. More live coral was found at R1 located on the north with around 25% live coral, with corals of Acropora and Porites. In the contrary, R2 located on the southern side of the island had very high sand content with around 29% cover. This area is located quite close to the proposed burrow site, hence it is expected that the burrow site will have similar environmental conditions. Only 4% of live coral was observed and most of which were isolated coral colonies mostly belong to Acropora family. Over 30% dead corals and rubble were observed at both sites.

Figure 23: Reef composition distinction between the two sites

Reef fish abundance and diversity was also assessed during the coral reef assessments. Visual fish censuses were carried out on all reef sites along an approximately 20m belt transects. The reef fish assessments were only done at family level. The findings of the reef fish assessments are presented in the following figure.

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Figure 24: Reef fish assessment results at two locations

The results of the reef fish assessments indicate that the reef fish abundance and diversity found among the two sites were quite varied. Both sites 1 and 2 (corresponding to reef sites) were assessed for reef fish abundance and R1 contained more reef abundance and diversity than R2. A total of 41 reef fish belonging to 11 families were recorded from R1. Only 11 fish belonging to 5 families were recoded from R2, of which most were damesels and no groupers, angelfish, Moorish idol, unicornfish, rabbitfish were found from R2. In terms of reef fish abundance and diversity, R1 had slightly more diversity and abundance.

6.5.3 Seagrass

Patches of seagrass have been observed to be present on the southern and northern nearshore lagoon areas. The seagrass is believed to be Thalassia spp. However, no significant or ecologically important marine biodiversity is observed to be associated with the environment. However, some juvenile reef fish were found to be habiting some of the seagrass areas. As a result of erosion, sediment deposition on many parts on the seagrass is apparent.

Figure 25: Seagrass patches found on the southern side lagoon

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6.5.4 Seawater Quality

A seawater sample from the island lagoon on the southern side was tested by the laboratories at MWSC for the parameters in the following table to establish the baseline status of seawater around the island.

Seawater test results are attached in Appendix 5.

Perimeter Unit SW 1 Physical Appearance Clear Conductivity 52300 pH 8.10 Nitrate mg/L 0.4 Sulphate mg/L 2980 Salinity mg/L 34.20 TSS mg/L 26500 Turbidity NTU 0.635 Table 6: Seawater analysis results

The seawater quality around the island had no excessive contents of nitrate or sulphates. These data will be used as baseline data for the monitoring purpose.

6.5.5 Marine Protected Areas

Two marine protected areas are found in Dhaalu Atoll. Fushi Kandu is located on the north of the project area at a distance of 31km. However, Kudahuvadhu Kandu is found at a distance of 11km on the SW site of the island. However, project related impacts are not believed to reach these protected areas.

Figure 26: MPAs found in Dhaalu Atoll

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6.6 SOCIO-ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT

6.6.1 Introduction to Dhaalu Atoll

Dhaalu Atoll (Dh.) is located between latitude 3° 01' N and 2° 39' N. Situated about 5km to the south of Faafu Atoll, Dhaalu Atoll has 7 inhabited islands, 3 tourist resorts and a number of uninhabited islands.

The 7 inhabited islands of Dhaalu Atoll are Meedhoo, Bandidhoo, Vaanee, Maaenboodhoo, Kudahuvadhoo, Hulhudheli and Ribudhoo. The three tourist resorts currenly operating in the atoll are Vilu Reef, Velavaru and Niyama Maldives. A number of smaller uninhabited islands are now designated for tourist resort development.

Due to tsunami of 2004, population found in Vaanee Island has been relocated to Dh. Kudahuvadhoo.

Hence, now the 6 inhabited islands and corresponding populations as well as populations in tourist resorts and industrial islands are found in the following table.

Island Population Meedhoo 958 Badidhoo 813 Ribudhoo 278 Hulhudheli 719 Vaanee 0 Maaenboodhoo 622 Kudahuvadhoo 2,443 Tourist Resorts 1,092 Industrial islands and others 564 Total 7,489 Table 7: Population of Dh Atoll (Source: Preliminary Results of Population and Housing Census, 2014, DNP)

The largest population is found in Kudahuvadhoo, the Atoll capital having 2,443. The smallest population is found in Ribudhoo having only 278 persons. Also there is a population of 1,092 in tourist resorts and a population of 564 working in industrial and other islands.

Main economic activities of the Atoll are fishing, tourism and handicraft.

The following account describes island level information of Maaenboodhoo based on published information available.

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6.6.2 Population and Housing

According to the Council, the registered and living population of the island now reaches over 950.

According to the Population and Housing Census of 2006, there are over 90 total households and 89 living quarters in the Island. Currently there are over 120 households in the island.

6.6.3 Health and Education

There is a general health center on the island with very limited health services There is a hospital in Kudahuvadhoo where most of the health needs are met from the island.

Education in the island is provided by Maaenboodhoo School, which is up to lower secondary level. However, Kudahuvadhoo has opportunities for higher secondary education. The total student enrolment in the island in 2013 was 218, of which primary levels had the highest enrolment having 99.

6.6.4 Water, Sanitation and Energy

Based on 2006 Census, over 99% of the households use rainwater as main source of drinking water. Now bottled water is used as a drinking source, but yet the majority of the households use rain water as their main source.

Currently there is no sewerage network available on the island. Individual households use septic tanks.

The majority of the houses use gas as the main source of energy for cooking.

6.6.5 Electricity

Ukulhas has access to 24-hour electricity provided by FENAKA. The total installed capacity is 274kW. The monthly average usage is 32,505 kWh and the oil consumption is estimated to be 144,552 liters per year (MEE, 2013).

6.6.6 Waste Management

The waste management of the island is through a waste management center developed on the island. Open burning is still undertaken on the island.

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6.6.7 Public Infrastructure

The harbour of the island was developed in 2014. Also, in 2013, smaller part of the harbour has been developed, which now makes the harbour one of the largest in the atoll. A mosque and a school forms part of the public infrastructure available on the island.

6.6.8 Local Economy

The local economy of Maaenboodhoo is based on fishing and tourism. A number of youth from the island are employed at the operating resorts in the island.

6.7 ENVIRONMENTAL VULNERABILITY

The following information on the vulnerability of the islands in the Maldives are taken from published literature such as Developing a Disaster Rick Profile for Maldives by UNDP (2006) as site –specific information on vulnerability of Maaenboodhoo was not available. According to the UNDP (2006) the natural vulnerability of the islands and atolls of the country to potential hazards have been modeled to understand the risk factors of the country.

The disaster risk scenario for Maldives can be described as moderate in general. Despite this, Maldives is among the most severely affected countries hit by the Asian tsunami on December 26th, 2004. Maldives experiences moderate risk conditions due to a low probability of hazard occurrence and high vulnerability from exposure due to geographical, topographical and socio-economic factors.

Following are some of the risks that have been identified and potential areas that may be within the range of risks based on its sensitivity, location, exposure, historic events, etc.

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Figure 27: Tsunami hazard zones

Figure 27 show that Maldives faces tsunami threat largely from the east and relatively low threat from the north and south. So, islands along the eastern fringe are more prone to tsunami hazard than those along the northern and southern fringes. Islands along the western fringe experience a relatively low tsunami hazard. This map is produced based on the experience of the tsunami in 2004 and also occurrence of historic tsunami events in the greater region where most of the events have identified to have occurred from the Sumatra Region (UNDP, 2006).

Besides heavy rains and strong winds during monsoons, hazardous weather events which regularly affect Maldives are tropical storms or ‘tropical cyclones’, and severe local storms. At times, tropical cyclones hitting Maldives are destructive due to associated strong winds that exceed a speed of 150 kilometers per hour, rainfall of above 30 to 40 centimeters in 24 hours and storm tides that often exceed four to five meters (UNDP, 2006).

Cyclonic winds sometimes can cause a sudden rise in sea-level along the coast, leading to a storm surge. The combined effect of surge and tide is known as ‘storm tide’. Storm tides can cause catastrophe in low-lying areas, flat coasts and islands such as Maldives.

Maldives is also affected by severe local storms- thunder storms/ thunder squalls. Hazards associated with thunder storms are strong winds, often exceeding a speed of 100 kilometres per hour, heavy rainfall, lightning and hail; they also give rise to tornadoes in some regions. In general, thunderstorms are more frequent in the equatorial region than elsewhere, and land areas are more frequently hit by thunderstorms as compared to open oceans. However, Page 65

EIA for Proposed Coastal Protection Works in Dh. Maaenboodhoo November 2015 thunder storms close to the equator are less violent when compared with those in the tropical regions and beyond. Maldives being close to the equator, thunder storms are quite frequent but less violent here. Strong winds generated by severe local storms generate large wind- driven waves which are hazardous for Maldives (UNDP, 2006).

The islands of Maldives are less prone to tropical cyclones. The northern islands of the country were affected by weak cyclones that formed in the southern part of the Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea. Figure 28 shows the tracks of cyclones affecting Maldives during the period 1877 - 2004. The number of cyclones directly crossing Maldives is small. Only 11 cyclones crossed the islands over the entire span of 128 years. Most of the cyclones crossed Maldives north of 6.0o N and none of them crossed south of 2.7o N during the period (UNDP 2006).

Figure 28: Tracks of cyclones affecting Maldives from 1877-2004

UNDP (2006) stated that there were 21 cyclonic disturbances within the 500 kilometers radius during 1877-2004, of which 15 were depressions with an average wind speed of about 28 knots. The highest wind speed due to cyclonic disturbances that affected the islands during that time was about 65 knots. Figure 29 shows the tracks of cyclonic disturbances that passed through the circle with 500 kilometers radius.

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Figure 29: Tracks of cyclones passed within the scan radius of 500km.

Based on the above information, Maldives is divided into zones with varying scales of cyclone hazards based on based on a qualitative judgment based on the gradient of the storm tracks from north to south.

Figure 30: Regions to capture cyclones passing through Maldives for hazard zoning.

Figure 30 shows the regions used to compute the highest wind speed of each cyclone captured within the region. Majority of the cyclonic disturbances crossed the northern region. The frequency and wind speed decreases from northern region to southern region. Region 1 is not affected by any storm. Thus, Maldives can be divided into three cyclone hazard zones – the northern zone with high cyclone hazard, central zone with moderate cyclone hazard and the southern zone with very little cyclone hazard.

With regards to the storm surge potential, the bathymetry around the Maldives shows that the ocean slope close to the east coast is steeper than the west coast, hence it can be generalized that the eastern islands of the Maldives are vulnerable to higher surge hazard compared to the western islands. Figure 30 shows the bathymetry around Maldives. Figure 31 shows storm

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EIA for Proposed Coastal Protection Works in Dh. Maaenboodhoo November 2015 surge hazard zones based on computed model with maximum pressure drops for 100 year return period and with historical data (UNDP, 2006).

Figure 31: 3D view of bathymetry of Maldives (depth in meters).

Figure 32: Storm surge hazard zones with cyclones affected

Based on historical catalogues of earthquakes in the region, identifying seismic sources based on this historical information and based on numerical models, it was found that except for Seenu, Gnaviyani and Gaafu Atolls, earthquake hazard is low across the country. The probable maximum Modified Mercalli Intensity (MMI) is estimated between 7-8 in Zone 5 (Figure 32). This level of MMI can cause moderate to high damages (UNDP, 2006).

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Figure 33: Maldives seismic hazard zones

It can be summarized that the northern parts of the country are vulnerable to cyclones and storm surges while southern parts of the country are vulnerable to seismic activity. The eastern side of the country is more exposed to potential tsunamis and surges.

Based on the above analysis, it can be said that Maaenboodhoo is situated in a relatively low risk level areas in terms of cyclones, storm surges as well as potential seismic activity. Flooding risks from bad weather are also minimal.

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EIA for Proposed Coastal Protection Works in Dh. Maaenboodhoo November 2015 7. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS

The following section predicts potential environmental impacts from the proposed coastal protection works to be carried out in Maaenboodhoo Island. Once the potential environmental impacts are identified, the impacts are evaluated to identify their significance. In order to identify and analyze environmental impacts, the following methods have been used.

7.1 METHODS

7.1.1 Impact Prediction

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

7.1.2 Assessing Impact Significance

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

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Table 8: Impact significance criteria

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

Table 9: Significance rating matrix

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

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

Table 10: Significance colour scale

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7.1.3 Limitations and Uncertainties

The potential environmental impacts from the proposed project are all predicted and assumed, hence there may be variables affecting the accuracy of these impacts due to natural variations and uncertainties. Also the limited time available for undertaking baseline environmental assessments is also key limiting factor in terms of determining the accuracy of the environmental impacts.

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

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

7.1.4 Justification of the Method Used

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

7.2 IMPACT PREDICTION

The environmental impacts that may be associated with the proposed coastal protection project at Maaenboodhoo Island are predicted in this section by using a simple descriptive matrix. The following matrix distinguishes the types of environmental impacts that may be associated with various project actions on key environmental components and distinguishes whether these are impacts during construction period or during post-construction period. Page 72

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The following table predicts the nature and types of environmental impacts.

ENVIRONMENTAL COMPONENTS AND PROJECT ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS IMPLICATION ACTIONS PERIOD Land Beach Lagoon Reef Direct Changes in destruction of Changes in current flow reef from Excavation of fill current pattern around burrow material During material from around the area site, loss of removal, high construction burrow sites may slightly habitat, sedimentation affect beaches Turbid lagoon and impacts to waters fish and other organisms Loss of Minor impacts to existing beach Sedimentation Land filling, reef due to areas and and increased During grading and sediment runoff, potential turbidity in the construction beach profiling however, are impacts to lagoon water unlikely other areas Loss of existing beach Construction of Minor changes Damage to reef areas and rock boulder and in current flow flats due to During development geo-bag pattern around operation of construction may affect revetment project area excavator nearby beach areas Operation of Exposure to During construction noise and construction vehicles dust Damage to the Marine Risk of seawater During Potential for Land revetment and pollution from quality construction and flooding degradation beach due to sediment run- deterioration operation water run-off off Excessive use of geo-bag revetment area Damage to geo- During may damage bag revetment operation the revetment and impact the beaches Table 11: Impact prediction table

The above table shows the main project activities and the environmental components upon which the environmental impacts will occur. The environmental impacts on various environmental components during the construction phase of the proposed project seem greater than those of the post construction and operation phase.

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7.3 DESCRIPTION OF IMPACTS

7.3.1 Construction Phase Impacts

7.3.1.1 Impacts from Excavation of Fill Material from Burrow Sites

The required fill material will be obtained from the approved location on the southern side lagoon and western side lagoon. It is estimated that a total of around 6,480cbm of material will be obtained from these locations. The required material will be dredged by use of excavators.

The most significant direct cause of dredging is sedimentation and consequential turbidity, benthic destruction and changes in reef communities, dredge spoil as well as its impacts on the environment such as water quality deterioration, changes in light intensity, habitat destruction, species loss and reef damage.

Sedimentation

This is the most significant contributing factor to reef damage from dredging as it releases large amounts of sediments into the environment. Large volumes of sediment released into ambient environment, as a result of activities such as dredging is harmful to establishment, development and survival of many corals.

The ecological effects of sedimentation on coral reefs range from a temporary slow-down in coral growth to gradual dying and permanent changes in community structure and species diversity. This indicates that corals itself as well as coral communities are highly susceptible to changes that will occur from sedimentation. Concerning the settlement of sediment particles, a big quantity of different sized corals will bury them as well as will fill in all crevices and cavities together with numerous species and organisms that live there and which are indispensable to the structure and functioning of the whole ecosystem.

The capacity of corals to remove fine sediments falling on them depends on the type of coral. The ability of corals to reject sediments is limited by several factors such as excessive sediments and complete burial for more than several hours is lethal to most corals and coral colonies. Ciliary movements cause the rejection of sediment in corals. Branching species are

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EIA for Proposed Coastal Protection Works in Dh. Maaenboodhoo November 2015 more advantageous than other flat and massive growth forms in remaining viable in situations of prolonged sediment deposition.

Dredging in the lagoon on the southern side of the island is believed to transport sediment onto the reef found on the southern side, however, dredging on the western side lagoon is not believed to transport sediment into any reef as the reefs are located quite far from the burrow site.

Turbidity and Changes in Light Intensity

Light for organisms in seawater is a very complex problem as coral reefs are very sensitive to changes that occur within the environment in which they are found. Fine particles in suspension in the water column will contribute to a decrease in light intensity. Visibility in normal conditions in the Maldives range between 10-15m, however, it may drop to 2m during the operation of dredging, hence, drastically cuts down the light intensity, which will affect the growth of autotrophic organisms such as corals which depend on sunlight for its growth, reproduction and survival.

Water Quality

As it is clear that abiotic and biotic reef conditions are modified by sedimentation, it also alters certain parameters of water. For instance, suspension of sediments, in addition to problems of turbidity and siltation, will produce dirtier water, noxious odours and significantly decrease the dissolved oxygen in water and the results can be severe for fish and other very active organisms. However, this will depend on the site itself and will reduce such problems in open areas where there is an adequate current flow. All proposed dredging sites are quite open, hence, the impact on water quality is envisaged to be on an average scale.

Habitat Destruction and Changes in Reef Community Structure

As sedimentation causes adverse impacts on the general reef ecosystems, it is apprehensible that all levels of physical and biological content of a reef system will undergo drastic changes. In the vicinity of the dredged site, the main damage is caused by sand loading, sedimentation, silt deposition on coral colonies, other organisms, crevices and cavities, and such drastic modifications lead to very important changes in the biotic composition and sometimes lead to the death of the reef. Within the coral reef ecosystem, corals and coralline algae are first to suffer from sedimentation. Some corals and algae will immediately die

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EIA for Proposed Coastal Protection Works in Dh. Maaenboodhoo November 2015 because they cannot reject mass sedimentation episodes while molluscs and crustaceans as well as fish leave the damaged reef or die, resulting total decrease in species richness and diversity as well as loses its renewable high productivity.

Site After Dredging

After the dredging has taken place, the substrate becomes lifeless, and rock surfaces will be covered by sessile organisms only if larvae can settle and survive. Some areas may be non colonisable. However, it is believed that some sort of coral recolonisation will start even though not immediately after dredging but several years after the operation has taken place and when the condition becomes favourable for corals to restart establishment.

Impacts to Nearby Beaches

As dredging will open or widen a new opening on the reef, strong currents may enter into the lagoon system, which may alter the lagoon oceanography, which may in turn cause beach erosion, if the nearby beaches are not protected.

7.3.1.2 Land Filling, Grading and Beach Profiling

A large area on the southern side of the island along the existing fill material needs to be filled right up to the proposed rock revetment as well as the proposed geo-bag areas need fill material for beach prifiling. These activities will be done from fill material obtained by dredging from western and southern lagoons. This will no doubt have vast implications in terms of environmental impacts on the area as well as on surrounding areas. Also, the information obtained here was extracted from available scientific literature, as very limited information was available on the impacts of these activities undertaken in the Maldives.

Following are the key impacts associated with land reclamation of the proposed project.

Loss of Lagoon Habitat

A major consequence of sand filling on the marine environment included permanent loss of lagoon including loss of lagoon habitats as reclamation converts such habitats into dry land. For Maaenboodhoo island, the lagoon environment does not contain many varieties of lagoon habitats. The nearshore lagoon mostly consisted of sand, rocks, rubble and searass as well as few amounts of live corals.

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Sedimentation and Reef Damage

Sand filling on large areas release fine sediments into the environment causing impacts from sedimentation on physical and biological constituents of the reef environment in terms of degradation and damage to surrounding habitats which in turn leads to decreased or loss of diversity and abundance of certain species among corals, fish and other organisms. Most impacts from intensive dredging-based sedimentation are discussed above. Sand filling and dredging in the proposed area will occur at the same period and the magnitude of impacts occurring on the marine environment from both operations will be largely felt similarly and simultaneously.

Changes in Current Flow

As a result of sand filling will alter natural wave and current patterns of the area thereby causing changes in the shoreline. Changes in the shoreline of the island are subject to changes in the beach dynamics due to altered equilibrium causing either beach erosion or accretion. In such cases sand is usually transported within the lagoon and beyond to the reef environment which is damaging to corals and coral colonies as well as will reduce fish populations. Fill material from the reclaimed land will also be washed onto the lagoon and reefs due to changes in wave and current patterns.

7.3.1.3 Construction of Rock Boulder and Geo-Bag Revetments

Due to the sudden change in the shoreline as a result of placement of rock boulders and goe bags, current patterns of the nearshore environment within the project area may be affected. This may divert some currents to other areas in the nearshore environment along the northern and southern as well as western shorelines of the island, hence, may cause further beach erosion. If beach erosion distributes to other areas along the shoreline, more coastal areas from the island will be affected. On the reverse side, there is also potential to supplement these areas with sand which may be transported during the site preparation process. Operation of construction vehicles during construction of the revetments within the lagoon, may also produce some sedimentation which may affect the marine habitats and seawater quality.

7.3.1.4 Operation of Construction Vehicles

As part of the proposed coastal protection project in Maaenboodhoo, some construction vehicles such as an excavator and a dump truck will be used in the operations. During the Page 77

EIA for Proposed Coastal Protection Works in Dh. Maaenboodhoo November 2015 operation of these vehicles, impacts from noise and dust may be generated. Noise and dust pollution may have health implications to the island community.

However, these impacts will be restricted to vehicle operation periods and specific project locations only.

7.3.2 Post Construction Impacts

7.3.2.1 Impacts from Potential Flooding

Reclamation results in an increased susceptibility of the whole island to flooding by covering the beach area, which faces the lagoon. The resulting factor of such incidences arises from modifications in island coastlines by reclamation, sand filling which either blocks or alters water circulation. The best example is demonstrated in Male’ during the storm surges which occurred in 1987, where most of the reclaimed land was severely affected by flooding.

7.3.2.2 Damage to Geo-Bag Revetment

Excessive use on geo-bag revetments during post construction and operation phase can damage the revetment causing impacts to the beach areas as well as to the revetment itself. Some of the uses include undertaking various activities such as use of revetment for fishing, as a play area, waste dumping area, use the area as a slipway, loading and unloading of goods, etc. Such activities may damage the geo-bags as well as may break the cement material used, hence causing impacts.

7.3.3 Indirect Impacts

Indirect impacts from the proposed coastal protection works in Ukulhas include excessive use of the burrow site which will be developed as an entrance upon completion of the coastal protection works. Excessive use of the area has the potential for marine environmental pollution in the area, which may affect coral reefs in the vicinity.

7.3.4 Cumulative Impacts

As the islands are developing fast, a number of socio-economic development activities are planned. Development of slipways, disposal of construction waste within the marine environment, and other development activities that are planned to be undertaken on the island may pose similar impacts to the marine environment of the island. Page 78

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7.3.5 Positive Impacts

The main positive impact from the proposed coastal protection project will be restoration of the northern, southern and western beach areas that are affected by beach erosion with adequate and long-term coastal protection. During construction direct and indirect benefits to the island economy from the construction workforce is foreseen, as all the construction staff will stay on the island throughout the duration of project development. Also most of the supply needs during the construction period will be met from the community.

7.4 IMPACT ANALYSIS AND EVALUATION

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

IMPACT MAGNITUDE ACTIVITY/IMPACT EXTENT DURATION INTENSITY LIKELIHOOD MAGNITUDE COLOUR SCALE Excavation of fill material Local Permanent High Definite Major Land filling Local Permanent High Definite Major Coastal protection from rock and geo-bag revetment Onsite Permanent Medium Likely Moderate revetment Operation of contruction vehicles on land Onsite Short-term Low Likely Minor Flood risk Onsite Temporary Medium Likely Moderate Damage to geo-bag revetment Onsite Long-term Low Likely Minor Direct and indirect benefit to community Onsite Short-term Medium Likely Moderate Table 12: Impact analysis table

The major impact from the proposed development will be occurring from excavation and filling of materials on the affected areas as well as use of material as core materials of the revetments, which bring permanent and irreversible changes to the marine environment. Construction of geo-bag and rock revetments will also cause some permanent impacts such as alteration of the existing coastlines, changes in the oceanography, etc. Minor impacts can occur from operation of construction vehicles on land and damage to geo-bag revetment from excessive use.

The socio-economic impacts have very positive outcomes, including direct and indirect benefit to the community during construction period, which has been identified to be moderate.

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EIA for Proposed Coastal Protection Works in Dh. Maaenboodhoo November 2015 8. MITIGATION MEASURES

The main purpose of the following section is to outline environmental management and mitigation measures that will be undertaken and followed with regards to minimizing and reducing environmental impacts from the proposed coastal protection works to be carried out in Maaenboodhoo Island. Mitigation measures have been addressed for all environmental impacts identified in the previous section.

The following section is divided into two parts, part 1 deals with mitigating impacts during construction period of the project and part 2 deals with mitigating impacts after the project has been completed.

8.1 CONSTRUCTION PHASE

8.1.1 Mitigation Measures to Reduce Sedimentation

As can be seen from the previous section on environmental impacts from the proposed project, sedimentation as a result of sand excavation to obtain necessary fill material for the geo bags, land filling, core material as well beach profiling have been identified as a key environmental impact from the project.

The following measures will be used to reduce impacts from sedimentation and reducing spread of sedimentation within the surrounding environment.

 Use physical barriers such as earthen berms and sand beds to close the area that will be excavated. Since sand excavation will be undertaken by use of excavators, the excavator pathway as well as the disposal site will be physically closed by laying a sand bed to confine sedimentation.  The required 6,480cbm of sand will be excavated by use excavator to ensure that the operation will be completed in the shortest time frame. Since the burrow area is shallow having 1m, the excavator can excavate the required material soon. In order to reduce effects of sedimentation, consideration has been given to excavate the sand in the shortest possible time, thus sedimentation will be seen only for a short period of time.

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 The excavation operation will be undertaken mostly at low tide and on calm days, to ensure that the sedimentation does not reach far distances as well as for easy excavator operations. It is believed that during low tides and calm days, transport of sedimentation cannot reach far distances, hence its effects on the environment can be minimized.  The dredge waters will be released into the bottom in order to reduce the spread since bottom waters are less disturbed by winds; this combined with a shorter distance for sediments to settle may help to minimize the turbidity effects around the area.

8.1.2 Mitigation Measures to reduce Land filling Impacts

Practically, little can be done in order to prevent the impacts of sand filling as this activity will entirely replace the area by fill material placed directly on the required lagoon areas. Most of the impacts generated during sand filling are discussed earlier.

As sedimentation will cause the largest impact on the project and surrounding areas apart from the replacement and destruction of habitats by fill material and newly created land, effective measures to prevent, reduce and minimize sedimentation such as sediment nets, silt curtains, settling ponds, earthen and rock berms, placing rock boundary around reclamation area can be used.

Tidal current patterns of the proposed area have already been looked into during the baseline assessments and alignments to suit current movement has already been considered.

The following measures will be used to reduce impacts from sedimentation and reducing spread of sedimentation within and around the surrounding environment.

 Use a physical boundary around the proposed land filling area  Operation will be undertaken on calm days at low tide to reduce potential for spread of sedimentation into far distances  Immediately level and grade the area into desired heights  Avoid stock piling of sand required for sand filling

8.1.3 Mitigation Measures to Reduce Revetment Construction Impacts

In order to reduce impacts during construction of the revetment, the operation will be coincided with low tide and calm days. Once, the revetment is constructed on the desired

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EIA for Proposed Coastal Protection Works in Dh. Maaenboodhoo November 2015 area, minor changes in the hydrography of the immediate area are believed to occur. In order to reduce the impacts, the construction of the revetment will be started on the toe of the revetment and gradually moved upwards. Regular monitoring of current movement will be undertaken during the operation.

Also, a geotextile layer will be placed under the rocks, and geo-bags hence, even if there are stronger currents after the development, no further erosion under the rock revetment is expected to occur.

8.1.4 Mitigation Measures to Reduce Construction Vehicle Impacts

Vehicles such as excavator and dump trucks will be used during the construction of the geo bag revetment along the affected area. Noise and dust are expected during the operations of these vehicles. However, these impacts will be minimal and is not expected to disturb the island community as the operations will be undertaken in the project area only.

Also, as an important measure, the operations will be undertaken during day time only.

8.2 POST CONSTRUCTION PHASE

8.2.1 Mitigation Measures to Reduce Flooding Risks

During the post construction period, flooding of the area due to heavy weather or strong waves may pose one of the most serious threats to land filled areas as well as to the revetment itself.

The design of the revetment is such that the top level will be raised from the ground level, hence run-off through the revetment will be very minimal. This poses the concern of flooding in the fill areas. In order to minimize flooding, the ground level will also be slightly raised than the island level. Narrow ground ducts will be developed to direct flooding away from the filled land and also if required small pipeline will be laid underground to release flood water elsewhere on the island nearby.

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8.2.2 Mitigation Measures to Reduce Damage to Geo-Bag Revetment

As outlined previously, excessive uses on the geo-bag revetment may cause some damages to the revetment itself. In order to protect the revetment, all types of heavy and excessive uses such as use of revetment area to load and unload goods, slipway, etc on the revetment will be prohibited. Also, care will be taken to maintain the revetments such as cleaning of the area from waste will be regularly undertaken.

8.3 COMMITMENT

The proponent fully recognizes the importance of protecting the environment and ensures that the proposed mitigation measures will be implemented throughout the project implementation.

Commitment letter from the proponent is attached in Appendix 6.

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EIA for Proposed Coastal Protection Works in Dh. Maaenboodhoo November 2015 9. ALTERNATIVES

The following section outlines some alternative means to the project in terms of some coastal erosion prevention measures that can otherwise be implemented as an alternative to the project. Also, a “No Development Option” has been looked at although it cannot be considered as a favourable alternative to the project, depending on the magnitude of the problem that the project has to address.

9.1 NO DEVELOPMENT OPTION

The no development option have been outlined here only to address the consequences if the proposed development did not go ahead as a result of environmental impacts that the implementation of the project will generate. If the development does not go ahead, there would be no environmental impacts, however, there will be more risks to the island in terms of spreading the erosion to further areas on the island.

In this regard, if the project does not go ahead due to the reason of environmental impacts, there is great potential for increasing the threat of erosion in the areas, which has great potential to impact more areas from the island, which will also highly risk some of the houses, and some infrastructure on the island. The environmental condition of the area will be further degraded and the whole area will have a diminished aesthetic quality. Further environmental protection cost will be incurred if the problem is left unattended. Hence, the No Development Option is not considered as a favourable alternative for the project.

9.2 OTHER ALTERNATIVES

9.2.1 Alternative Burrow Sites

Two burrow sites have already been approved by EPA to undertaken excavation works. One located on the southern side and the other located on the western side of the island as outlined previously.

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As alternative burrow sites, the seagrass areas found on northern and southern sides can be removed, which will obtain more material than the approved sites. However, as the current areas with seagrass are quite spread out, the operation will take time and may affect the overall budget and schedule of the project. Also, obtaining fill material from a large area will increase sedimentation within the reef system, also has the potential to alter regional currents that may in the long-term affect the proposed revetments.

Figure 34: Alternative burrow sites

Thus, based on the above points and operational ease, the proposed burrow site has been selected.

9.2.2 Alternative Coastal Protection Methods

The following section outlines coastal protection methods that can be used as alternative means against the proposed geo-bag and rock boulder revetments proposed for the island.

9.2.2.1 Beach Replenishment

The shorelines of the island affected by beach erosion can be replenished with sand as an alternative means to coastal protection proposed by the project. The beach replenishment can be undertaken all along the affected areas on the NE, SE, NW and SW shorelines of the island. In this regard, beach replenishment will be required for 1,215m of shoreline having

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10m beach width and approximately 1.4m height from MSL. A total of 29,160cbm of sand will be required to carry out the beach replenishment work on all affected areas. Although it is possible to obtain the required beach replenishment material from the lagoon on the western side of the island, the coastal protection will be temporary. This is demonstrated on the northern and southern sides of the island where fill material was placed from the harbor development works, which is now undergoing serious erosion.

Since beach erosion is an ongoing activity, only replenishing the affected beaches may not sustain these areas as the protection measure will be very temporary. Due to the above reasons, the alternative is less favorable.

9.2.2.2 Breakwater Alternative

In order to protect the areas affected by beach erosion, an offshore rock boulder breakwater has been looked as an alternative.

If an offshore breakwater is laid as an alternative to the rock boulder revetment and geo-bag revetment, the length of the breakwater will need to be extended to cover the whole of the affected areas on the northern, southern and western lagoons of the island. This option will be far more expensive than the proposed revetments. As the project budget has already been approved, consideration is only given for the proposed rock boulder and geo-bag revetments as the preferred alternative for coastal protection.

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EIA for Proposed Coastal Protection Works in Dh. Maaenboodhoo November 2015 10. STAKEHOLDER CONSULTATION

In order to identify key stakeholder concerns and interests with regards to the proposed coastal protection works, a stakeholder consultation with the key stakeholder of the project, Maaenboodhoo Island Council, some individuals from the island as well as the contractor was undertaken.

Following are the key findings of the stakeholder consultation.

10.1 MAAENBOODHOO ISLAND COUNCIL

In order to understand the broad view of the island with regards to the proposed coastal protection project, a consultation was undertaken with Maaenboodhoo Island Council.

Following are the key points discussed;

 Beach erosion started immediately after the development of the small portion of the harbor developed in 2013.  Initially fill material obtained from the harbor project was placed on the northern and southern sides of the island to protect the areas from further erosion  The Island Council, on behalf of the island community wishes the project be implemented as soon as possible.  The project has been informed to the Island Council by the project proponent, Ministry of Environment and Energy  The Council has worked very hard to get the project designed and finance allocated from the government, which has been a commitment by the government.  Currently there is no recreational beach on the island and only a small area on the NE corner of the island is used by the islanders as a recreational area.  As a desire of the island community, the council wishes to further develop the beach on the NE corner of the island by replenishing and slightly extending the beach areas to be used as a recreational area.

 The Island Council desires to implement the project as soon as possible, and they

regard the project as an important activity for the development of the island.

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10.2 MEETING WITH INDIVIDUALS FROM THE ISLAND

Some individuals from the island community have been met in order to understand their view on the important of the proposed project.

 Everyone consulted identifies that the project is quite important for the protection of the island from further beach erosion.  Some are not in favour of the geo-bag revetment to be constructed on NW and SW side of the island as they think it is more of a temporary solution  Some think that the proposed coastal protection works will limit the island from further expansion such as land reclamation on the southern and western parts of the island as a costly revetment will be constructed  Some have already raised the issue of erosion with the island council when beach erosion started on the island  Overall, the design of the project is acceptable to the people  Most people informed that the island needs a recreational beach area to be developed for the island community to use

10.3 MEETING WITH THE CONTRACTOR

As an important stakeholder of the project, the project contractor, Sas e Senok JV Pvt Ltd was also consulted. Following are the key findings;

 The contractor has an advantage over other contractors as the harbor development works undertaken by the contractor  Most of the project machinery required for project mobilization is already in the island  An early EIA approval will be needed to start the material supply to the island such as development of the temporary snadbed to load the rock boulders from the barge  If the project schedule and budget permits, some requirements from the island council and the community can be accommodated  Great care will be taken to minimize environmental impacts from the project

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 Similar projects are currently done by the contractor in Th. Veymandoo and Th. Kandoodhoo  A new coastal protection project in AA Ukulhas is waiting for environmental clearance from EPA

10.4 LIST OF PARTICIPANTS

Following are the list of participants consulted as part of the stakeholder consultation of the project.

NAME DESIGNATION CONTACT Abdul Rasheed Maaenboodhoo Island Council 7758070 Ahmed Shahid Maaenboodhoo Island Council 7502089 Afrah Adam Maaenboodhoo Island Council 7766687 Yousuf Saeed Maaenboodhoo Island Council 9910201 Mohamed Basheer Maaenboodhoo Island 9694147 Adam Mohamed Maaenboodhoo Island 7475187 Ismail Maaenboodhoo Island 7836764 Mohamed Moosa Maaenboodhoo Island 766810 Saudulla Ahmed Sas e Senok JV Pvt Ltd 7771682 Table 13: List of persons consulted

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EIA for Proposed Coastal Protection Works in Dh. Maaenboodhoo November 2015 11 ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING

11.1 BACKGROUND

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

11.1.1 Aim

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

11.1.2 Objective

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

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

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

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11.2 MONITORING REPORT

A detailed environmental monitoring report will be compiled and submitted to the Environment Protection Agency (EPA) during construction and post-construction periods of the project based on the data collected for monitoring the parameters included in the monitoring plan outlined for the project.

11.2.1 Report Format

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

11.2.2 Reporting Frequency

It is important to ensure that monitoring of the environmental parameters mentioned above will be initiated during construction periods, which will be continued throughout the operation life cycle of the project. In this regard, the following measures will be followed.

 During Construction Phase – Every 6 months  During Post Construction Phase – Every 6 months for 2 years

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11.3 MONITORING PLAN AND COSTS

The following Environmental Monitoring Plan will be followed during and after the coastal protection works have been carried out in Maaenboodhoo

Baseline Monitoring Approx Cost Indicators Reference Technique Frequency Requirements (US$) Values Sediment deposited Pre Qualitative & Siltation 6 months 200.00 on reef substrate construction Quantitative Aerial 2010 Beach erosion Erosion/Accretion photograph and 6 months 200.00 Shoreline GPS survey

Conductivity pH Seawater Laboratory Salinity Quality Baseline EIA Analysis from 6 months 120.00 TSS MWSC TDS Turbidity Standard Beach profiles Sand movement Baseline EIA leveling 6 months 400.00 technique Drought Currents Seasonal directions Baseline EIA 6 months 100.00 technique

Bathymetry Varying depths Baseline EIA Echo-sounder 6 months 400.00

TOTAL COST 1,420.00 Table 14: Monitoring plan

11.4 COMMITMENT

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

Commitment letter from the Project Proponent is attached in Appendix 6.

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EIA for Proposed Coastal Protection Works in Dh. Maaenboodhoo November 2015 12. CONCLUSIONS

Following are the conclusions with regards to the proposed coastal protection works to be carried out in Dh Maaenboodhoo Island; o Severe erosion has been found on the proposed coastal protection locations of the island which requires implementation of immediate actions in order to protection the beaches and stop the areas from further erosion. The overall benefit of the project is to protect the northern, southern and western sides from further erosion as well as protecting the island from potential damage related to coastal erosion. o The project involves excavation of fill material, land filling and development of rock boulder and geo-bag revetments to be constructed as part of the overall coastal protection works. The environmental impacts from sedimentation and direct destruction and loss of habitat from these activities have been identified to be the most significant environmental impacts from the project. Especially in areas where dredging and land filling occur, irreparable damages in these areas of the environment have been identified. To some extent, the revetments itself is also an impact to the environment in terms of permanently replacing the habitats within the area. o Careful planning and scheduling of the proposed activities to coincide with calm days and low tide operations has been proposed as the main mitigation measures in addition to constructing physical barriers in the project sites and regular monitoring of the various aspects of the environment. o Alternatives to some of the project components such as alternative burrow sites, alternative coastal protection measures such as beach replenishment, alternative breakwaters have been identified and evaluated. The process of selecting preferred alternative has also been discussed. o Environmental monitoring during both construction and post construction stages has be given serious consideration in order to assess the degree and magnitude of environmental changes in the biophysical environment, severity of impacts as a result of the proposed Page 93

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development. An environmental monitoring programme will be implemented during construction and operation stages of the proposed development. o Although there are a number of environmental impacts from the proposed development, some of these can bring permanent changes to the environment of the island, other impacts can be reduced and mitigated by use of appropriate methodology. The effectiveness of these methodologies can be documented by implementing a comprehensive monitoring programme. Also, with positive social outlook of the project and considering the overall need for the project, it is concluded that the project should go ahead as planned.

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EIA for Proposed Coastal Protection Works in Dh. Maaenboodhoo November 2015 13. REFERENCES

Developing a Disaster Risk Profile of Maldives, 2006, UNDP

Dredging and Reclamation Regulation, 2013, EPA

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

EIA Regulation (Amended), 2015, EPA

Environmental Impact Assessment Report for Proposed Coastal Protection Works in Th. Veymandoo by Mohamed Zuhair in 2015.

Environmental Impact Assessment Report for Proposed Coastal Protection Works in Th, Kandoodhoo Island by Mohamed Zuhair, EIA01/15.

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

Maldives Energy Outlook, 2013, Ministry of Environment and Energy

Ministry of Education, 2013, Schools Statistics

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

Maldives Tourism Act, 1999, Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture

Population and Housing Census 2006, Ministry of Planning and Development

Preliminary Results, Maldives Census 2014, Bureau of Statistics, Maldives

Regulations on Environmental Impact Assessment, 2012, MEE

Regulation on Environmental Damages Liability, 2011, Ministry of Housing and Environment

Statistical Yearbook of Maldives, 2013, Department of National Planning

The Strategic Action Plan, National Framework for Development 2009 – 2013, Government of Maldives

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Third National Environment Action Plan – 2009 – 2013, Ministry of Housing, Transport and Environment www.tide-forecast.com accessed October 2015 www.windfinder.com accessed October 2015

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EIA for Proposed Coastal Protection Works in Dh. Maaenboodhoo November 2015 14. APPENDICES

APPENDIX 1: Approved Terms of Reference (TOR) 99

APPENDIX 2: Dredging and Reclamation Permit 105

APPENDIX 3: Detailed Design of the Revetments 107

APPENDIX 4: Details of Geo Bags 117

APPENDIX 5: Seawater Test Results 118

APPENDIX 6: Commitment Letter from Proponent 119

APPENDIX 7: Letter from Maaenboodhoo Island Council 120

APPENDIX 8: Letter from Dhaalu Atoll Council 121

APPENDIX 9: CVs of Consultants 122

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APPENDIX 1: Approved Terms of Reference (TOR)

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APPENDIX 2: Dredging and Reclamation Permit

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APPENDIX 3: Detailed Design of the Revetments

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APPENDIX 4: Details of Geo Bags

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APPENDIX 5: Seawater Test Results

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APPENDIX 6: Commitment Letter from Proponent

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APPENDIX 7: Letter from Maaenboodhoo Island Council

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APPENDIX 8: Letter from Dhaalu Atoll Council

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APPENDIX 9: CVs of Consultants

Mr. Mohamed Zuhair

Personal Details

Full Name: Mohamed Zuhair

ID Card: A-045870

Date of Birth: 18 December 1971

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

Marital Status: Married with 3 children

Languages: English (Professional) Dhivehi (Mother tongue)

Education and Training

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

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

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

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

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

Employment

 Freelance Environmental Consultant (2011 - Present)

Provide technical consultancy on environment-related work including development of environmental

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EIA for Proposed Coastal Protection Works in Dh. Maaenboodhoo November 2015 management plans, preparation of Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA) and environmental monitoring plans, field assessment and environmental analysis of potential development sites, technical input for proposed development projects, as well as assist in project development, etc

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

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

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

Recent Consultancies Undertaken

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 Environmental Impact Assessment Proposed Tourist Resort Development on Akirifushi Island, K. Atoll, Maldives. 2014 Page 122

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 Environmental Impact Assessment Coastal Protection Works in Veymandoo Island, Thaa Atoll, Maldives, 2015

 Environmental Impact Assessment Coastal Protection Works in Kandoodhoo Island, Thaa Atoll, Maldives, 2015

 Environmental Impact Assessment Proposed Mixed Use Residential Complexes in Hulhumale’, Maldives, 2015

 Environmental Impact Assessment Proposed 11-Storey Building at Thulhaadhooge, Male’, Maldives, 2015

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Professional Certifications

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

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

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Ibrahim Shakir (Shark)

Date of Birth: 18 July 1967

Contact Address: Ma Sharky Shark

Koarukendi Magu

Male’ 20-30

Maldives

E-mail: [email protected]

Nationality: Maldivian

Contact no: +9607759695

Qualifications

Associate Diploma of Land information Management Systems

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

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

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

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

Relevant Experience

Surveying projects

Current______

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

Completed ______

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Gdh.Dhigulaabadhoo Topographic survey and Hydrograhic Survey.

K.Kaashidhoo set-out survey for tourist hotel

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

Laguna Maldives (Male’ Atoll) managed by Universal Enterprises

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

Konnota Island (Gaafu Dhaal atoll) managed by PCH

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

Maavelavaru Island (Noonu atoll) managed by Athama Marine

Topographic Survey, Hydrographic Survey and Setout Survey.

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

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

HANDHUFUSHI (Herathere) ADDU Atoll / managed by Yatch tours

Hydrographic Survey of the proposed water villa site

Madoogali Island (Ari atoll)

Topographic survey includes buildings, structures and water villas.

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

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

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Full Moon Maldives / Universal Enterprises

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

Baros island Resort / Universal Enterprises

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

Dhigufinolhu island Resort / Universal Enterprises

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

Palm Beach Resort, Lhaviyani Atoll, Maldives

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

Ari Beach Resort, Ari Atoll, Maldives

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

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

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

Veligandu Huraa, Maafushivaru (Twin island)

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

Fesdu Fun island / Universal Enterprises

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

NakatchaaFushi / Huvafenfushi

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

Hilton on Rangali / Crown company

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

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Reethi Rah Resort / One & Only

Environment impact assessment study.

Moofushi island Resort

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

Villivaru & Biyadhoo / Ministry of Tourism

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

Mushimas Migilli / Dhoani Migilli

Environment impact assessment study including Harbour development.

Keekimini / Fisheries Project

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

Hudhufushi island Resort / Abdul Rauf

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

Ministry of Health, Malé Maldives

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

Hinnavaru island, Lhaviyani Atoll, Maldives

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

Maadhoo island, Maldives

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

Fuah Mulaku

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

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Mirihi island Resort

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

Hebadhoo island Resort

Hydrographic Study and Environmental impact assessment on harbour Development.

Embudhoo Finolhu island Resort / Taj

Hydrographic Study and Environmental impact assessment on harbour Development.

Shaviyani Atoll (all inhabited islands)

Hydrographic Study and Environmental impact assessment on Harbour Development.

Hulhumeedu island

Hydrographic Study and Environmental impact assessment on Harbour Development.

Kulhuduffushi island Harbour

Hydrographic Study and Environmental impact assessment on Harbour Development.

Vangaaru(shaviyani atoll)

Dh.Eboodhoo/Olhuveli

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

Gdh.Gazeera

Topographic survey for resort construction

ADh.Athurugaa

Topographic survey and Hydrograhic Survey

AA.Thundufushi

Topographic survey and Hydrograhic Survey

Ha.Uligamu

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

STO Building

Set-out survey in Male’,Maldives.

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Velaanaage office Building

Set-out survey in Male’,Maldives.

K.Giraavaru

Topographic survey for Resort Construction

Ga.Handahaa

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

N.Huivani

Topographic survey and Hydrograhic Survey.

N.Minaavaru

Topographic survey and Hydrograhic Survey.

Gdh.Baulhagilaa

Topographic survey and Hydrograhic Survey.

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

Setout Survey of Rendheli Island, Noonu Atoll.

Finolhas Island (Baa atoll) managed by Coastline Maldives

Topographic & Hydrographic Survey of Finolhas Island, Baa Atoll.

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

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

EIA Projects Participated

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

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

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

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

Environmental Impact Assessment for Resort Development in K.Akirifushi, North Male Atoll, Maldives, Akirifushi Investment Pvt. Ltd. Page 130

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

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

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

Employment

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

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

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

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