ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT
FOR THE PROPOSED
EASTERN CHANNEL CONSTRUCTION AT KAASHIDHOO ISLAND, KAAFU ATOLL
March 2018
Prepared for
Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure
Consultant
CDE Consulting, Maldives
ެގުމުދެހ ުރެނ ުތާރަފ ތަމުރިއ ޫދިށާކ .ކ
ެނާފްށޮކ ުރަސައ ްށަޓްއެވާމިތ ްނިއުޢޫރްޝ ަމ
ްޓޯޕިރ ާރުކްނާޔަބ ުރަވްނިމ
8102 ްޗރާމ
:ުރާޔިދެއ ެގުޢޫރްޝަމ
ރަޗްކަޓްސާރްފްނިއ ްޑްނެއ ްގްނިސުއަހ ްފޮއ ރްޓްސިނިމ
:ްޓްނަޓްލަސްނޮކ ޭއ.ިއައ. އ ެގުޢޫރްޝަމ
ގްނިޓްލަސްނޮކ އ. ޑ. ސ
EIA for the proposed construction of east entrance channel at Kaashidhoo, Kaafu Atoll
Table of Contents
Table of Contents ...... i List of Figures ...... v List of tables ...... vi List of Abbreviations ...... viii Acknowledgements ...... ix Executive Summary ...... xii 1 INTRODUCTION ...... 1 1.1 Purpose of the EIA ...... 1
1.2 Project Title ...... 1
1.3 Project Proponent ...... 1
1.4 Project Scope Summary ...... 2
1.5 Project Location ...... 2
1.6 Project Background and Rationale ...... 6
1.7 Aims and Objectives ...... 6
1.8 Consultants, Contractors and Government Institutions...... 6
1.9 Project Financing...... 6
1.10 Scope and Terms of Reference of EIA ...... 6
1.11 Assessment Methodology ...... 7
1.11.1 General Approach ...... 7 1.11.2 The Study Area...... 7 1.11.3 Field Observations ...... 9 1.11.4 Desk Study Reviews ...... 11 1.11.5 Public and Key Stakeholder Consultation ...... 11 1.11.6 Data Analysis ...... 12 1.11.7 Report Format ...... 12 1.12 Potential Data Gaps and Limitations of the Study ...... 12
2 PROJECT DESCRIPTION ...... 14 2.1 Project Outline and Key Features...... 14
2.2 Detailed Project Outline and Work Methodology...... 16
2.2.1 Dredging reef entrance and dredge waste disposal ...... 16 2.2.2 Installation of Harbour Facilities...... 24
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2.3 Labour, Logistics and Site Management ...... 25
2.3.1 Labour Requirements and Availability ...... 25 2.3.2 Housing of Temporary Labour ...... 25 2.3.3 Services ...... 25 2.3.4 Utilities ...... 25 2.3.5 Pollution and Emission Control Measures ...... 25 2.3.6 Health and Safety Measures ...... 26 2.4 Project Schedule ...... 28
2.5 Summary of Project Inputs and Outputs ...... 29
2.6 Demobilization ...... 30
3 POLICY AND LEGAL FRAMEWORK ...... 31 3.1 Relevant Legislation ...... 31
3.1.1 Environment Protection and Preservation Act (Act no. 4/93)...... 31 3.1.2 Employment Act (2/2008) ...... 32 3.1.3 Immigration Act (1/2007) ...... 33 3.2 Relevant Regulations and Guidelines ...... 33
3.2.1 Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations 2012 ...... 33 3.2.2 The Environmental Liability Regulation (Regulation 2011/R-9) ...... 34 3.2.3 Regulation on Dredging and Land Reclamation ...... 34 3.2.4 Waste Management Regulation 2013 ...... 35 3.2.5 Compliance ...... 36 3.3 Environmental Permits Required for the Project ...... 36
3.3.1 Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Decision Note ...... 36 3.3.2 Dredging and Reclamation Permit ...... 36 3.4 Responsible Institutions ...... 37
3.4.1 Ministry of Environment and Energy ...... 37 3.4.2 Atoll Council ...... 37 3.5 Guiding Policies and Documents ...... 37
3.5.1 National Environmental Action Plan II (NEAP II) ...... 37 3.5.2 Waste Management Policy ...... 38 3.6 International Conventions ...... 39
3.6.1 Convention on Biological Diversity ...... 39 3.6.2 International Plant Protection Convention ...... 39 3.6.3 UNFCCC and Kyoto Protocol ...... 39 4 EXISTING ENVIRONMENT ...... 41
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4.1 Physical Environment ...... 41
4.1.1 Meteorology ...... 41 4.1.2 Hydrology ...... 47 4.1.3 Beach ...... 52 4.1.4 Water quality assessment...... 59 4.1.5 Bathymetry ...... 60 4.2 Biological Environment ...... 61
4.2.1 Overview ...... 61 4.2.1 Photo Quadrat Survey and Fish Census...... 61 4.2.2 Visual Snorkelling Survey ...... 64 4.3 Natural Hazard Assessment for the Site ...... 68
4.3.1 Predicted Hazards ...... 68 4.4 Socio-economic Setting...... 69
4.4.1 Population Characteristics ...... 69 4.4.2 Population Density ...... 69 4.4.3 Sex Ratio ...... 70 4.4.4 Education ...... 70 4.4.5 Health Services ...... 70 4.4.6 Utilities and Infrastructure ...... 70 4.4.7 Transport ...... 71 4.4.8 Business and Employment ...... 71 4.4.9 Civil Society Organizations ...... 71 4.4.10 Heritage Sites ...... 71 5 Stakeholder Consultations ...... 72 5.1.1 Introduction ...... 72 5.1.2 Kaashidhoo Island Council ...... 72 5.1.3 Kaashidhoo Island Public Committee ...... 74 5.1.4 Responses by the Proponent for key concerns of stakeholders ...... 75 6 IMPACTS IDENTIFICATION ...... 77 6.1 Introduction ...... 77
6.2 Identification of significant impacts ...... 77
7 SIGNIFICANT IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES ...... 89 7.1 Impacts on Natural Environment during Construction Phase ...... 89
7.1.1 Noise Pollution and Vibration Impacts ...... 89 7.1.2 Groundwater and Soil Condition ...... 89 3.1.7 Marine Water Quality ...... 90
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7.1.4 Marine Flora and Fauna ...... 91 7.1.5 Impacts Coastal Process and Coastal Hydrodynamics ...... 93 7.1.6 Impact on Unique Habitats...... 94 7.1.7 Impact on Visual Amenity ...... 95 7.2 Impacts on the Natural Environment during Operational Phase ...... 95
7.2.1 Health and Safety...... 95 7.2.2 Changes to Hydrodynamics and Coastal Processes ...... 95 7.2.3 Natural Hazard Risks ...... 95 7.3 Recommended Mitigation Measures ...... 96
7.3.1 Noise Pollution ...... 96 7.3.2 Marine Water Turbidity and Sedimentation ...... 96 7.3.3 Marine Water and Groundwater and Soil Contamination ...... 97 7.3.4 Change in Coastal Processes ...... 97 7.3.5 Marine Habitat Destruction ...... 97 7.3.6 Occupational Health Impacts ...... 98 7.3.7 Natural Hazard Risks ...... 98 8 ALTERNATIVES ...... 99 8.1 “No-project” Alternative ...... 99
8.2 Alternative Dredge Disposal Sites ...... 100
8.3 Alternative Dredging Methods ...... 101
8.4 Alternative sedimentation control measures ...... 102
9 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN ...... 104 9.1 Environmental management system...... 104
9.2 Management structure and responsibilities ...... 105
9.2.1 Project Proponent...... 105 9.2.2 Environmental Consultant ...... 106 9.2.3 Environmental Protection Agency ...... 106 9.2.4 Other Parties ...... 106 9.3 Non-Conformances and Corrective Action ...... 106
9.4 Reporting requirements ...... 106
10 ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING PLAN ...... 110 10.1 Introduction ...... 110
10.2 Objectives of the Monitoring Plan ...... 110
10.3 Aspects of the Monitoring Plan ...... 110
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10.4 Monitoring Report ...... 112
10.5 Commitment for Monitoring ...... 112
11 CONCLUSIONS ...... 113 REFERENCES ...... 115 APPENDIX A – Terms of Reference ...... 118
APPENDIX B – Site Plan ...... 119
APPENDIX C – Water Quality Results ...... 120
APPENDIX D – Survey Locations Map ...... 121
APPENDIX E – Beach Profiles ...... 122
APPENDIX F – Bathymetry Chart ...... 124
APPENDIX G – CV’s of Consultants...... 125
APPENDIX H – Cutter Suction Dredger Information Sheet ...... 126
APPENDIX I – Emergency Response Contingency Plan ...... 127
APPENDIX J – Acknowledgement from Atoll Council ...... 128
APPENDIX K- Proponent Declaration and Commitment Letter ...... 129
List of Figures
Figure 1-1 Location Map of Kaashidhoo Island, Kaafu Atoll ...... 3 Figure 1.2: Project site ...... 4 Figure 1.3: Satellite Image ...... 5 Figure 1-4: Study Area Boundary ...... 8 Figure 2.1: Project Site plan (reduced version) ...... 15 Figure 2.2: Cross-section of main channel area ...... 18 Figure 2.3: Proposed dredger IHC Beaver 300 C ...... 20 Figure 2.4: Preliminaruy construction plan ...... 23 Figure 4.1: Monthly Frequencies of Wind Direction in Central Maldives based on National Meteorological Center 10 year Data (adapted from Naseer, 2003)...... 43 Figure 4.2: 24 Year Wind Frequency Recorded at National Meteorological Center...... 43 Figure 4.3: Mean Daily Wind Speed and Direction Recorded at National Meteorological Centre (1978 – 2004) ...... 44 Figure 4.4: Mean Monthly Rainfall in Hulhule’ (1975-2004) ...... 45 Figure 4.5: Maximum daily rainfall by year in Hulhule’ (1975-2005) - (Source: Hay, 2006) ..... 45 Figure 4.6: Maximum Temperature by year in Hulhule’- 1975-2005 (Hay, 2006) ...... 46
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Figure 4.7: Predicted tides for April 2017, based on data from Department of Meteorology, Maldives ...... 47 Figure 4.8: Estimated wave patterns of the site ...... 50 Figure 4.9: Measured current patterns around Project Site ...... 51 Figure 4.10: Coastal Modifications...... 55 Figure 4.11: Medium-term shoreline changesxx ...... 56 Figure 4.12: Short-term shoreline changes ...... 57 Figure 4.13: Short-term shoreline changes on the eastern end ...... 58 Figure 4.14: Number of Fish families and Species recorded per transect at Kaashidhoo reef. .... 61 Figure 4.15: Selected images showing variety of coral species along transect 1 ...... 62 Figure 4.16: benthic substrate composition along transect 1 ...... 62 Figure 4.17: Selected images showing benthic substrate cover along transect 2 ...... 63 Figure 4.18: Benthic substrate composition along transect 2 ...... 64 Figure 4.19: Proposed Channel dredge zone ...... 64 Figure 4.20: Sea grass found within project site foot print...... 65 Figure 4.21: General lagoon conditions near disposal site ...... 65 Figure: 4.22: Seagrass and macroalgae species observed at TS4 ...... 66 Figure 4.23: Population pyramid of Kaashidhoo Island by Age Group ...... 69 Figure 5.1: Meeting held with Kaashidhoo Island Council ...... 73 Figure 5.2: Meeting held with Kaashidhoo Island Public Committee ...... 75 Figure 6.1: Estimated Affected areas ...... 79 Figure 8.1: Alternative dredge disposal sites ...... 103 Figure 9.1: Environmental Management Strategy flow diagram...... 105 Figure 9.2: Environmental Reporting Process ...... 107
List of tables
Table 1.1: Summary of basic information about Kaashidhoo Island...... 2 Table 1.2: Fish abundance categories ...... 10 Table 1.3: Limitations of the study ...... 13 Table 2.1: Details of proposed channel ...... 17 Table 2.2: Details of dredge disposal sites...... 19 Table 2.3: Alternative beach replenishment specifications ...... 19 Table 2.4: Proposed Work plan Summary ...... 28 Table 2.5: Major Project Inputs ...... 29 Table 2.6: Major project outputs ...... 30 Table 4.1: Key Meteorological Information of the Maldives ...... 41
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Table 4.2: Summary of General Wind Conditions from National Meteorological Centre ...... 42 Table 4.3: Probable Maximum Precipitation for various Return periods in Hulhule’ (UNDP, 2006) ...... 46 Table 4.4: Tidal Variations at Hulhule International Airport ...... 47 Table 4.5: Water Quality Results for seawater samples, 11 October 2017 ...... 59 Table 4.6: Water Quality Results for groundwater samples, 11 October 2017 ...... 60 Table 4.7: fish Census conducted on Kaashidhoo reef ...... 66 Table 4.8: Probable Maximum Precipitation for various Return periods at Hulhule' ...... 68 Table 5.1: Participants list for Kaashidhoo council meeting ...... 72 Table 5.2: Community concerns and MHI responses raised during stakeholder meeting...... 75 Table 6.1: Impact Identification Matrix for the project ...... 80 Table 6.2: Evaluation of key impacts on the natural environment during construction and operation stage ...... 81 Table 8.1: Summary of “No Project” Alternative ...... 99 Table 8.2: Summary of dredging options ...... 101 Table 8.3: Summary of sediment containment measures for reclamation area ...... 102 Table 9.1: Environmental Management Plan for construction and operation phase ...... 108 Table 1.01: Aspects of the Monitoring Plan ...... 111
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List of Abbreviations
COADS Comprehensive Ocean-Atmosphere Data Set
EIA Environmental Impact Assessment
EMP Environmental Management Plan
EPPA Environment Protection and Preservation Act
IPCC Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change
MEE Ministry of Environment and Energy
MHI Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure
MWSC Malé Water and Sewerage Company
NEAPII National Environmental Action Plan II
NAPA National Adaptation Programme of Action
ToR Terms of Reference
TSS Total Suspended Solids
UNFCC United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change
WMR Waste Management Regulation
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Acknowledgements
The lead author of this report is Dr. Ahmed Shaig.
The field and expert team consisted of the following members.
Ms. Aishath Huma (Environment Impact Assessment)
Ms. Aminath Inan Abdul Muhsin (Report compiling)
Mr. Mohamed Faizan (Marine Assessment)
Mr. Ali Moosa Didi (Coastal Surveying)
Mr. Mohamed Ali (Marine Surveys)
The curriculum vitae’s of the EIA consultants are attached in Appendix G of this report.
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Lead Consultant’s Declaration
I certify that statements made in this Environment Impact Assessment are true, complete and correct to the best of my knowledge and available information.
Dr. Ahmed Shaig
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Proponent’s Declaration
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Please Refer to Appendix K
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Executive Summary
This document is submitted to the Environment Protection Agency, by the proponent to fulfil the requirement of an EIA under the Environmental Protection and Preservation Act (EPPA) of the Maldives (4/93). This report provides the background to the proposed project components as well as an assessment of their likely environmental and social impacts, both beneficial and adverse. The proposed enhancement and mitigation measures are outlined where necessary together with an environment management plan and a monitoring programme. The proponent of this project is Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure.
This project proposes to create a new entrance channel to provide a safer access to Kaashidhoo Island, Kaafu Atoll. At present, vessels entering Kaashidoo uses the entrance channel on the western side of the island, which has safety concerns due to rough conditions during the SW monsoon. Upon request by the Kaashidhoo community, to provide safer access to the island during the South West Monsoon, this project proposes to create an entrance channel from the reef edge of the northern side of the lagoon. The resulting dredge waste is to be stockpiled on the side of the harbour after reclaiming a small area. The project also includes installation of navigational lights to improve the integrity and usability of the overall harbour infrastructure.
Project activities will be in conformance to the laws and regulations of the Maldives, and relevant international conventions that Maldives is party to. The key laws and regulations applicable to this project are: Environmental Protection and Preservation Act, Environmental Impact Assessment Regulation 2012, Dredging and Reclamation Regulation, Waste Management Regulation 2013, and the Environmental Liability Regulation. The assessment shows that the proposed development involves major impacts on the marine environment particularly temporary loss of benthic organisms, and potential changes to coastal hydrodynamics and beach stability.
Key mitigation measures for the construction stage include undertake construction works during calm weather conditions as much as possible particularly when wave activity is calmer, and carrying out the activities in as short a time period as possible to allow normal conditions to re- establish in the area as soon as possible.
Operational stage impacts are limited to potential erosion arising from changes to the coastal hydrodynamics. The changes to the beach will likely occur as the new beach system tries to achieve equilibrium with the changed coastal conditions. However as it is not possible to determine beforehand whether this will occur, no specific erosion prevention measures are proposed but appropriate action will be decided after monitoring the changes.
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The alternatives were evaluated for the project but the current designs and methods have been preferred due to the significant advantages that the proposed design has over alternatives. The alternative options for disposing sand were explored but a combination of land reclamation and stockpiling was recommended as stockpiling it provided the maximum long-term benefits to the community from dredge waste. The Island Council wanted to undertake beach replenishment on the western end “tourist beach” and two sites have been evaluated in the EIA. However, MHI reports that there aren’t enough funds for such an activity. Silt screens were considered as an alternative sedimentation control measure. However given the small size of the project area, the use of the proposed bund walls is preferred as it is more financially feasible.
Monitoring of the project is crucial particularly the changes to hydrodynamics, shoreline, water quality, and lagoon benthos recovery. Particular attention should be given to monitor the erosion patterns along the shoreline of Kaashidhoo.
The management plan for this project is designed to produce a framework for anticipated impacts, including practicable and achievable performance requirements and systems for monitoring, reporting and implementing corrective actions. In addition provide evidence of compliance to legislation, policies, guidelines and requirements of relevant authorities.
In conclusion, the project provides significant socio-economic benefits for the local community.
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ާސާލުޙ ާދާސ ުރަސައ ެނާފްށޮކ ްށަޓްއެވާމިތ ްނެގިޅުގ ިއާއުޢޫރްޝަމ ެގުމުދެހ ްއެރެނ ިއަގުރުތުއ ެގޫދުށާކ .ކ ކަޓޯޕިރ ާސާރިދ ިމ
ްޑްނެއ ްނިސުއަހ ްފޮއ ރްޓްސިނިމ ކަރާޔިދެއ ެގުޢޫރްޝަމިމ .ެވެކެއާސާރިދ ާވިއަފިވެރުކ ްނުތޮގ ެގުމުރުކްނަޒަވ
ާވްނުނޭބ ްށައަދްއުހ ެގ ށެވާމިތ ާވްނުނޭބ ިއަކަޓްށަމުގްނިހ ުޢޫރްޝަމ ކަމުނޭބ ުޑނަގިއަމ ެގުޓޯޕިރިމ .ެވެއ ރަޗްކަރްޓްސާރްފްނިއ
.ެވެމުޅެހަށުހ ްށައ ސްނެޖޭއ ްނަޝްކެޓޮރްޕ ްޓްނެމަރަޔަވްނެއ ްއަތުތާމޫލުއަމ
ްށޮކުލްއަހ ްއަތިތަދ ާވާމިދ ިއަގުމުރުކްނުނޭބ ުރެނ ެގުތާރަފ ުގނަޅުހ ޭވެރުކްނުނޭބ ުރާހިމ ކަމުނޭބ ުޑނަގިއަމ ެގުޢޫރްޝަމ ިމ
ެގޫދިށާކ .ކ ްނުށަދ ެގެއޫރްޝަމިމ .ެވެމުނިދްށޮކިހަފ ުގަމ ެނޭވެމުކުނ ެދަވ ްށައޫދިށާކ ްށަރަހަފުދނަޅުއ ުކެއާމަކިރެތްތަމާލަސ
ސަރަހައްދުގެ އިރު އުތުރު ފަރާރުން ނެރެއް ހެދުމަށްޓަކައި ފަޅުގެ ސަރަހައްދު ކޮންނާނެއެވެ. އަދި ކޮނެގެން ނެގޭ ވެލި،
.ެވެއަފިވޭރ ނަވްށަމުޅެއ ްށަކަދްއަޙަރަސ ެގުށޮދުޑނޮގ ޭޅެއަޑނަކ ިއަގ ރިއަކ ިއާދްއަޙަރަސ ޭޑނެކުރެނ
ެގ ުދްއަހަރަސ ާވިއަފިޅެއަޑނަކ ްށަމުދެހ ުރެނ ްނުތޮގިމ .ެވެއެނާވިއަފިވެލާލަބ ުތަލާހ ެގުޅަފ ެގުރާހިމ ެގޫދިށާކ ިއަގާސާރިދިމ
ނަވްނެގިވެލުކެއ ިއަގުދްއަޙަރަސ ާދްނެގިވޭރ ްށަމުޅެއ ިލެވ ިދައ .ެވެއިލެވ ިދައ ަލިހ ިއާއަކަރުމ ނަވިއަފިވެލުކެއ ިޑައުޅަފ
މޫދުވިނައާއި، ވެލިއެވެ. ދިރޭ މުރަކަ އެހިސާބުގައި އުފެދިފައެއް ނުވެއެވެ. ފަޅުގެ އިތުރުން އެސަރަހައްދު ގޮނޑުދޮށްވެސް ވަނ
.ެވެއަފްށޮކ ޭވރާސ
ޭވެދޭނ ެނާފްށޮކ ްށަޓްއެވާމިތ ިއަގާލަހުރަމ ެގުތަކްއަސަމ ލަމައ ްނުބަބަސ ެގުއޫރްޝަމިމ ިއަގުތޮގުނުވެރުކަގަހާފ ްނިއާސާރިދިމ
އަސަރުތަކުގެ ތެރޭގައި މުރަކަ އަދި ކަނޑުގެ އެހެނިހެން ދިރުންތަކަށް ލިބިދާނެގެއްލުމާއި، ލޮނުގަނޑު ތަޢައްޔަރުވުން އަދި
ެގޭއ ަމަނިފްށޮކުރަސައ ްށައަނިވުދޫމ ްނުރުތިއ ުގުކަތްނަކިމ .ެވެއެނޭނެމިހ ުތާމޫލުޢަމ ެގުކަތްނުލްއެގ ެނާދިބިލ ްށަންނިރެތްތަކްއަސަމ
.ެވެނުވެރުކަގަހާފ ްނަކާދްނެގެވުޑޮބ ްސެވުތަސުރުފ ެގުމުޔިދާރިގ ްށޮދުޑނޮގ ްނުބަބަސ
މި ދިރާސާގައި މަޝްރޫއަށް ގެނެވިދާނެ ބަދަލުތަކަށް ބަލާލާފައިވާނެއެވެ. މިގޮތުން މަޝްރޫޢު ނުހިންގުމާއި، ވެލި އަޅާނެ އިތުރު
ތަންތަނަށް ބަލައިލުމާއި، ފަޅުތެރެ ކިލަނބުވެގެން ދިޔަނުދިނުމަށްޓަކައި ބަންޑުބޭނުން ކުރުމުގެ ފައިދާތަކާއި ސިލްޓް ސްކްރ ން
ިއަކަޓްށަމުރުކ ްނުނޭބ ްނުޓްސިރޫޓ ނެދާފަލ ްނުލިސްނުއަކ ްށަމުޅެއ ިލެވ .ެވެއެނާވިއަފާޔިކާޅައ ްއަތާދިއަފ ޭބިލ ްނުމުރުކ ްނުނޭބ
ްށަތޮގެއ ަމަންތޮއ ްނެވެދްނެގ ްށައިރުކ ްތަކްއަސަމ ްށަތޮގިމ .ެވެށަމުރުކ ިދނަސްއުމ ްނުލެވ ްށޮދުޑނޮގ ްނުޅޮކ ުގނަޅުހ
ެގުޢޫރްޝަމިމ ނަވ ްނިއ ގްނިސްނުއަހ ްފޮއ ރްޓްސިނިމ ްސެވަމަނ .ެވެއަފިވެރުކ ްޓޭއުލެވިއ ނާވ ްވިޓޭނަޓްލޯއ ްށަމުއިދްނެގ
ްށަމަކަންނެފުނ ްށަމަކެނާދިވެދްނެގ ްށައިރުކ ިއަބިއަމުރުކިދނަސްއުމ ްނިލެވ ްށޮދުޑނޮގ ިއަގުރުދާހެއ ްނިއެރެތ ެގުޓެޖަބ
.ެވެއަފާވަގްނައ
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ްނުލްއެގ ެނާދިބިލ ްނުކަމްނަކ ަދަފެއ ިއާށަމުތަގެނެދ ުރަވްނިމާރުކ ުރަސައ ްށަޓްއެވާމިތ ާވިއަފްށޮކްނާޔަބ ިއަގުޓޯޕިރިމ
ިއަކަޓްށަމުތަގެނެދ ްނަކްނަކެއ ިއަގްއެތަލާހ ެޖްއެވިތަމިރުކ ްއެމަކ ްތެނިއަފިވެރުކްނާޔަބ ިއަގުޓޯޕިރ ިމ ިދައ ިއާށަމުރުކަޑުކ
ާވިއަފިހެޖަމަހ ްށަމުލެބ ްނުތޮގިމ .ެވެއެވިއަފިހެޖަމަހ ްށަމުރުކްނ ރްކްސ ްށަމަކްނަކ ަދަފިމ ިއަގުކަތާލަހުރަމ ިކެއ ެގުއޫރްޝަމ
.ެވެއެނެމިހ ްނުރުކާސާރިދ ާލަބ ްއަތުލަދަބ ަންނައ ްއަތަލާހ ެގުދޫމ ިއަގޭރެތ ެގުކަތްއަތްނަކ ުޑނަގިއަމ
ިއަގްޓޯޕިރިމ ްސެވަމަންނެހެއ .ެވެއެވްނެގ ށަކެއ ްނުއައ ްއެކަތުލަދަބ ްސެވެމްނޮކްށަޓްއެވ ެގުށަރ ްނުބަބަސ ެގުއޫރްޝަމ ިމ
ާރުކ ްނުބަބަސ ެގުކަތުލަދަބ ަދަފުނުވެންނެދ ިއަގ ތަމ ަމަނިފްސޮގްނެގ ްށައިރުކ ުޢޫރްޝަމ ެވުލާމަސ ްށަމަކްނަކ ާވިއަފިވެރުކަގަހާފ
ިރުހ ާދިއަފ ުނަހުނ ްށަންނުތިޔްއަރ ކައުޢޫރްޝަމ ިމ ިއަގްއެތޮގަލްމުޖ .ެވެއެނާދިވެރުކަޑުކ ްށަޑޮބ ްށަރަވ ްށަތުރަސައ ޭވެދޭނ
.ެވެކެއުޢޫރްޝަމ
Prepared by: CDE Consulting Page|xv EIA for the proposed construction of east entrance channel at Kaashidhoo, Kaafu Atoll
1 INTRODUCTION
1.1 Purpose of the EIA
This Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) report is an evaluation of the potential environmental, socio-economic and natural impacts of the proposed eastern channel dredging project on Kaashidhoo Island Reef, Kaafu atoll.
This document is submitted to the Environmental Protection Agency, by the proponent to fulfil the requirements under the Environmental Protection and Preservation Act (EPPA) of the Maldives (4/93), specifically clause 5 of the Act which states that a report should be submitted before implementation of any project that may have a potential impact on the environment.
This report provides the background to the proposed project components as well as an assessment of their likely environmental and social impacts, both beneficial and adverse. The proposed enhancement and mitigation measures are outlined where necessary together with an environment management plan and a monitoring programme.
1.2 Project Title
The project is called the Kaashidhoo East Channel Dredging Project.
1.3 Project Proponent
The proponent of this project is the Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure (MHI). The Ministry is the Government agency responsible for planning and development of public infrastructure on islands of the Maldives. MHI is currently implementing a number of harbour development projects across Maldives.
Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure Handhuvaree Magu, Male’ 20792 Republic of Maldives Phone: +960-3004300/ +960 3004124/ +960 3004110 Email: [email protected]
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1.4 Project Scope Summary
The project comprises of the following components:
1. Dredging a new entrance channel 2. Dredge material disposal 3. Installing navigation aids
See next chapter for details.
1.5 Project Location
The proposed project site is in Kaashidhoo Island Reef, which is geographically disconnected to the rest of the islands of Kaafu Atoll. The location of the island is shown in Figure 1.1 and project location is identified in Figure 1.2. A satellite image of the island is shown in Figure 1.3.
There nearest Marine Protected Area is Makunudhoo Kandu Olhi which is approximately 45 Kilometers from the site.
Table 1.1: Summary of basic information about Kaashidhoo Island
Island Name Kaashidhoo island Location 4°56'11.45"N 73°27'19.58"E Island Area Within Vegetation Line 272.02 Ha (2.72 sq km) Within Low Tide Line 276.31 Ha (2.76 sq km) Built-up area 37.19 Ha Length About 2,167 m Width at the widest point About 1,700 m Distance to Male’ City About 95 km Registered Population 24321 Existing island access facilities A harbour 700 ftx250ft; western side reef entrance; breakwater and quaywall. Number of vessels 2 ferries, 4 passenger boats. 4 cargo boats.
123
1 Island Information Provided by Island Council of Kaashidhoo, Kaafu Atoll
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Figure 1-1 Location Map of Kaashidhoo Island, Kaafu Atoll
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Figure 1.2: Project site
Prepared by: CDE Consulting Page|4 EIA for the proposed construction of east entrance channel at Kaashidhoo, Kaafu Atoll
Figure 1.3: Satellite Image
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1.6 Project Background and Rationale
At present, vessels entering Kaashidoo uses the western entrance channel which was dug in the early 2000s. During South West Monsoon, access from this entrance channel is difficult due to prevailing wind and wave conditions. According the locals, there are major safety concerns when using the channel during bad weather days in SW monsoon period. Kaashidhoo Channel is notorious for its rough seas during both seasons. Upon request by the Kaashidhoo community, to provide safer access to the island during the South West Monsoon, this project proposes to create an entrance channel from the reef edge of the eastern side of the lagoon. It is anticipated that the existing entrance channel will still be used in the North East Monsoon. The project also includes installation of navigational lights to improve the integrity and usability of the overall harbour infrastructure.
1.7 Aims and Objectives
This project aims to provide safe access to the island during SW monsoon.
1.8 Consultants, Contractors and Government Institutions
All the EIA related work is undertaken by consultants from CDE Consulting. Design criteria and technical specifications have been developed by MHI.
The development of the harbour will be undertaken by contractors selected by the Proponent. The contractor for the project is Senok Trade Combine (Pvt) Ltd.
1.9 Project Financing
The project will be financed by the government through allocated local budgets.
1.10 Scope and Terms of Reference of EIA
The scope of this EIA is broadly based on the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations 2012. The assessment more specifically adheres to the Terms of Reference (ToR) issued by the Environmental Protection Agency on 82h September 2017. The ToR is based on scoping meetings held between the stakeholders at the EPA on 28h September 2017. A copy of the ToR is attached in Appendix A.
The EIA report contains the following main aspects:
A description of the project including the need for the project, how the project will be undertaken, full description of the relevant parts of the project, implementation schedules, site plans and summary of project inputs and outputs (Chapter 1&2).
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A description of the pertinent national and international legislation, regulations and policies that are relevant and applicable to the project and a demonstration of how the project conforms to these aspects (Chapter 3) Information on the baseline environmental condition of the project site; this includes information on marine flora and fauna, marine water quality, marine environment near the project site (Chapter 4) An assessment of the potential impacts during both construction and operational stages of the project as well as identification and cost of the potential mitigation measures to prevent or reduce significant negative impacts during both construction and operation stages of the project (Chapter 5 & 6) Assessment of alternatives for the proposed project (Chapter 7) Details of the environmental management and monitoring plan (Chapter 8 and 9) Stakeholder consultation (Chapter 10) Potential gaps in information (Chapter 11) Main conclusions (Chapter 12)
1.11 Assessment Methodology
1.11.1 General Approach
This EIA is broadly guided by the EIA regulations 2012.
This report has been prepared to ensure that the significant environmental and social impacts of the proposed project at the preconstruction, construction, operation and demobilising stages have been considered and assessed at the project planning phase.
The process followed in the preparation of this EIA report consists of six parts. These are: scoping consultations; literature review; field surveys; stakeholder consultations; analysis of results; and compilation of the assessment in the form of a report.
In order to conduct a broad based and inclusive study, the proponent and the consultant have from the onset ensured the exercise is participatory. As such, discussions have been held with community members in the projects area and relevant stakeholders with the assistance and coordination of the proponent.
1.11.2 The Study Area
The area impacted by projects like these can be quite wide particularly when the socio-economic impacts are considered. The study area of this project considers that the entire island and the reef
Prepared by: CDE Consulting Page|7 EIA for the Proposed Construction of entrance channel at Kaashidhoo, Kaafu Atoll system of the island will be affected by the development, and that Kaashidhoo Island will experience the bulk of the socio-economic change.
Based on the results of the initial scoping of potential environmental impacts and the identification of sensitive aspects of the environment we have identified the following geographical areas likely to be affected at the various stages of the Project:
During construction temporary and permanent impacts will occur primarily on Kaashidhoo island’s reef system and coastal area. The most direct physical impact will be on-site in the area of the actual physical interventions. To ensure the impacts are fully covered, the entire Kaashidhoo Island is studied.
During operation of the island most impacts will be confined to the area that will be affected by construction impacts.
There will also be induced development impacts due to the project, mainly in the form of positive socio-economic benefits to Kaashidhoo Island.
Study area boundary is presented in Figure 1-2 and survey locations map for the project is attached in Appendix D
Figure 1-2: Study Area Boundary
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1.11.3 Field Observations
Field assessments were undertaken at Kaashidhoo Island from 10-11th October 2017. Field visits mainly covered water quality, marine life, and beach conditions of the proposed project sites. Stakeholder consultations were carried out with members of the public and the island council during this period as well.
Coastal Processes
Beach profiles were taken from designated locations around the island using standard levelling techniques. These profile locations are marked in Appendix D. The measurement of beach profiles involves standard practice of surveying with a staff and a dumpy level. Measurements were taken along the beach profile line at different intervals, wherever there occurred a distinctive morphological feature, such as beach ridge, high water mark, an erosion scarp, dip, rise, or other significant break in the beach slope up to a minimum distance of 30 m from the Benchmark. Other beach attributes such as beach rock were marked using handheld GPS.
Lagoon currents were measures using drogue method.
Tide data has been taken from Velana International Airport (Hulhule’ island) Tide Gauge.
Wave patterns have been estimated using secondary studies and visual field assessments.
Shoreline survey was carried out using Remote Sensing and GPS measurements. Measurements were taken for the low tide line, high tide line and vegetation line. The following interpretations were used when identifying the features
Low Tide Line: Determined as the top of “beach-toe” (a distinct minor berm at low tide level). Where no berm was detected, measurements were taken during the lowest tide level of the day.
High Tide Line: Measured as the wet beach area. This may not reflect the true high tide line was wave run up may extend the wet beach area.
Vegetation line: Measured as the canopy line.
Marine Assessments
Marine assessments were undertaken on 11th October 2017. The main objectives of this assessment were:
1. to determine the general status of the reef associated with the island
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2. to assess the condition of the marine environment which will be directly impacted by the project 3. to determine the fish species abundance and composition of the reef system
Snorkelling Visual Survey
Visual snorkelling surveys were carried out at select locations of the lagoon. General status of these sites were recorded, special attention was given to types of corals and fishes present at these sites and the environmental conditions that could affect growth such as suspended solids, depth, and other threats to coral life.
Number of fish families and species recorded per transect at Kaashidhoo reef.
Fish census
Fish and invertebrates species assemblages and abundance was surveyed using 50 m line transects, whereby the monitor swam along transect and recorded the number and the different species of fish and invertebrates observed within 2.5 m either side of the transect line.
A category-based methodology was adopted to estimate fish abundance and the mean number of fish per category and observation was extracted to estimate species and family abundance. The categories used to estimate abundance is displayed in Table 1.2.
Table 1.2: Fish abundance categories
Category Number of fish 1 1 2 2 - 4 3 5 - 16 4 17 - 64 5 65 - 256 Photo Quadrat Survey
The composition of the substrate was assessed by taking twenty high-resolution images every 5 m (pictures covering 0.5 m2 of the seabed) along the same transect line used for the fish surveys. These were later analysed using CPCe. CPCe, or Coral Point Count with excel extension, developed by the National Coral Reef Institute, is software designed to determine coral community coverage and diversity using transect photographs. Underwater photographic frames are overlaid by a matrix of randomly generated points, and the fauna/flora of species or substrate type lying beneath each point is identified. 20 random points per picture were analysed to characterize the substrate composition (sample size: 200 points per transect).
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Water Quality
Water quality was assessed from MWSC laboratory. Water quality samples were taken at different locations selected based on proposed developments.
Temperature, pH, nitrate, phosphate, turbidity, and total suspended solids were measured by taking water samples were collected from 1 m depth using clean 1.5 L PET bottles, and 1 L glass bottles. All bottles were rinsed thoroughly with sample from location before sample collection.
All water samples were sent to Malé Water and Sewerage (MWSC) Water Quality Assurance Laboratory for testing
Bathymetry and topographic survey
Bathymetry survey of the site was undertaken by CDE Consulting. The survey was carried on 11th October 2017. The bathymetric survey was conducted using the Sonarmite Echo-sounder coupled with GPS attached to a survey vessel. Vertical control was established by doing a tide observation on site during the surveyed period. The observation was calculated and reduced to the MSL using the predicted tide table provided by Maldives Metrological Service, (UH SEA LEVEL CENTER Data). Predicted tide data of Hulhule’ tide station was used for the corrections.
The equipment’s used in the survey were:
a. SonarMite 3 echo sounder b. Trimble geo7x handheld GPS c. Dinghy
1.11.4 Desk Study Reviews
A literature review was conducted to acquire background information on the site and its environment as well as to identify possible environmental impacts of similar developments in island settings. In this context, the EIA Regulations 2012, best practices from similar development activities, scientific studies undertaken in similar settings around Maldives and previous documents/historical publications was considered.
1.11.5 Public and Key Stakeholder Consultation
Stakeholder consultations were undertaken with the Kaashidhoo island council and advisory committee representing the general public of the island.
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1.11.6 Data Analysis
The EIA experts used their experience and knowledge in their respective fields to analyses the data from the previous studies and field visits in order to determine the potential impacts of the proposed projects, the severity of effects arising from these impacts and how any adverse impacts can be best mitigated and positive impacts enhanced. This analysis provides the framework for the recommendations on corrective actions and remedial measures and provides the basis for the formulation of the environmental management plan which forms part of this EIA report.
1.11.7 Report Format
The report format and structure presented here follows the report formatting guidelines issued by EPA.
1.12 Potential Data Gaps and Limitations of the Study
The environment of Maldives is generally poorly understood. This may be due to the lack of detailed studies in the Maldives. Much of the literatures on coral islands are derived from studies done in the Pacific which unfortunately has very different climatic and geologic settings.
Despite the numerous harbour development and reclamation projects in the Maldives, very little knowledge is published on the actual impacts. This is due to the lack of monitoring activities and poor implementation of the EIA regulations. A lot remains to be known about the actual impacts on the marine, coastal and ground water environment following such activities.
Detailed environmental analysis for an EIA is often required to be undertaken in a relatively short period of time. Give the seasonal climatic variations in Maldives and the differences in local geomorphologic and climate settings in individual islands such a short time frame is often too little to assess selected aspects of the environment. This problem is compounded by the absence of long-term studies in other parts of Maldives. Hence, most EIA’s end up being based on an environmental snapshot of specific point in time. However, experienced EIA specialists can deliver a close match to reality based on a number of similar assessments.
Table below provides a list showing data gaps in the study. Available documents in connection with data provided particularly the concept plan, experiences of CDE in other islands, particularly in the numerous harbour development assessments were used as the basis for preparation of this document. Therefore, it will be possible to analyse, implement mitigation and suggest monitoring measures to the most relevant negative impacts.
Environmental impact prediction involves a certain degree of uncertainty as the natural and anthropogenic impacts can vary from place to place due to even slight differences in ecological,
Prepared by: CDE Consulting Page|12 EIA for the Proposed Construction of entrance channel at Kaashidhoo, Kaafu Atoll geomorphological or social conditions in a particular place. As note earlier, there is also no long term data and information regarding the particular site under consideration, which makes it difficult to predict impacts. It is important to consider that there will be uncertainties and voluntary monitoring of natural processes as described in the monitoring programme is absolutely essential.
Table 1.3: Limitations of the study
Issue/Item Required Information Current Status / action
Natural Hazard Detailed modelling of future erosion. Data not available at local level; Risks broad level studies undertaken for Maldives were used.
Environmental Historical and long-term records on Baseline snapshots of the site taken baseline data reef and lagoon environment. to design mitigation measures. Detailed data on geology, Estimated based on other similar hydrogeology and soil. studies in Maldives. Long-term site specific or even Snapshot data for currents taken; regional data (at least 2 years). Most wave studies in Kaafu atoll critical data include current, wave used. and sediment movement history. Primary data collection will be time Socio-economic data of Kaashidhoo consuming; Secondary sources will island. be used.
Environmental Environmental Standards for Air and USEPA standards followed. Standards Noise Quality.
Wave Modelling Long to Medium-term site specific Not enough time to collect data; no data. facilities in Maldives to undertake high level modelling.
Current Modelling Long to Medium-term site specific Not enough time to collect data; no data. facilities in Maldives to undertake high level modelling.
Sediment plume Long to Medium-term site specific Not enough time to collect data; no dispersal data. facilities in Maldives to undertake modelling high level modelling.
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2 PROJECT DESCRIPTION
2.1 Project Outline and Key Features
The proposed project involves the construction of a new entrance channel, maintenance dredging of the existing harbour and entrance channel and the installation of navigation lights on the entrance channel.
The project can be divided in to the following components:
COMPONENT I – Dredging a new entrance channel
1. A new entrance channel 1461 m in length will be dredged on the eastern side of the reef. The channel will be connected to existing harbour
COMPONENT II – Dredge waste Disposal
2. Dredge waste resulting from the channel (approximately 56,100 cbm) to be used to reclaim a 1.4 Ha area east of the harbour and stockpile the remaining material on the reclaimed land.
COMPONENT III – Installing navigation aids
A reduced version of the project site plan is shown in figure 2.1. The approved project site plan is attached in Appendix B.
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Figure 2.1: Project Site plan (reduced version)
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2.2 Detailed Project Outline and Work Methodology
2.2.1 Dredging reef entrance and dredge waste disposal
Work involves dredging a new entrance channel and transporting dredge waste to designated disposal and storage site. Location and layout of the channel is presented in Appendix B.
2.2.1.1 Preliminary Works
Mobilization
Mobilization will begin once the EIA has been approved. Project is expected to mobilize the following equipment using a Landing Craft.
1. Spud Barge – (80x30 ft.) 2. Dredger – (IHC Beaver 300 C) 3. Excavators – (SK 300 class) 4. Backhoe Loaders – (JCB) 5. Dump trucks 6. Containerized office cabin 7. Tool cabin-with required tools 8. 13KVA Generator 9. Lighting plants 10. Welding Generators and Light equipment.
Boundaries of the site area and various plots for putting up of the temporary shelters for workshop, repairing and maintenance of machinery are yet to be identified in consultation with Councillors. Landing area will also be determined on site once the barge arrives.
Temporary Facilities
Following temporary facilities will be established. 1. Site Office Office equipped with all necessary items to assist the day today management of construction process. Standard 20ft portable cabin will be established.
2. Workshop This workshop consists of sufficient equipment to maintain the machine fleet and attend the minor repairs.
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Temporary sand bed construction
Temporary sand beds will be constructed between the channel dredging site and disposal site for easy transportation. This work may be undertaken in before or in parallel with the main channel dredging works.
Containment bunds will be constructed along the backfill area to minimize turbidity and sedimentation on the surrounding lagoon due to pumping.
2.2.1.2 Design Details
Channel Design Details
A summary of the channel design details are presented in Table 2.1.
Table 2.1: Details of proposed channel
Feature Specification Total length of proposed channel 1,461 m Width of proposed channel at mouth 45-61 m Width of proposed channel 30 m Slope 1:2 to 1:3 Proposed dredge depth To -3.5 MSL Estimated dredge volume from channel 56,100 m3
The design criteria for reef entrance dredging for the reef entrance are as follows:
Entrance channel shall be dredged to a minimum depth of -3.5 meters below Mean Sea Level (MSL). Layout shall ensure minimum sediment accumulation at the entrance channel to allow for a maintenance dredging period of not less than 5 years. The channel should allow two way traffic for light crafts used in the Maldives for passenger and cargo; a width of 25-30 m has been specified. The new channel needs to be connected to the existing island harbour basin and channel. The channel opening on the outer reef edge side is to about 45 m wide and the opening towards the existing channel is to be about 61 m. Channel profile should be sloped on the sides and shall be as shown in the drawing (in Figure 2.2). The slope can range between 1:2 to 1:3. The cross-sectional area for the reef entrance is 57.5 sq m.
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-2.5 m
7 m 16 m
Figure 2.2: Cross-section of main channel area
Quantity and Quality f of Dredge Material
The estimated dredge waste from the channel is estimated at 56,100 cbm.
The specific properties of the material are not known. The surveys were not based on drilling and therefore will only provide an indication of the material on the top 0.5 m of the seabed. Given the high cost of marine borehole drilling no such studies have been carried out. Thus, at the moment, the guarantees are based on experiences from other similar projects, previous harbour dredging project and previous channel dredging activities on the island. Experience indicates that reef strata up to 3 m is fairly uniform comprising mainly sand to coarse sand. There will be large quantities of seagrass leaves and its roots within the dredged material. It is practical to use this material for backfilling without further cleaning.
Borrow areas, depths, quantities and quantifies are already determined from the Bathymetry and interim surveys will be carried out to monitor dredging progress. The dredged quantity is measured in accordance with the measurement lines shown on the drawings defined as the extent of dredging at the given dredged levels and measured vertically from the existing sea bed level excluding side slopes.
Dredge Disposal Area Design Details
Dredge material are to be disposed on the eastern side of the existing harbour. Half of the material will be used to reclaim land and the other half will be stockpiled on the reclaimed area. The disposal area details are summarized in Table 2.2 below:
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Table 2.2: Details of dredge disposal sites
Site Area (sq m) Elevation (m MSL) Volume (cbm) B 14,100.00 +1.50 28,000.00 C 5,636.00 +6.50 28,100.00 Total 56,100.00
The following considerations were made in the dredge disposal site design.
1. The original plan from MHI was to stockpile all sand on the space on the eastern side of the harbour. However, the large of volume of sand required a large foot print (approximately 1 ha) to stockpile the material. There is not enough space at the proposed site to locate the material and required reclamation from the lagoon. 2. If reclaiming, from lagoon it was better to shape the reclamation area in way that would complement island shape and as per the prevailing hydrodynamics. 3. The stockpiled material is to be placed on top of the reclaimed area. 4. The stockpiled material is available for reuse for other development activities on the island. 5. Location of the reclamation area is already identified with the help of Island Councillors and MHI Coordinator.
A 60 m long sand bed groyne has been proposed next to the boar yard area to prevent material eroded from the newly reclaimed land form seeping into the harbour basin. The proposed design is 3-5 m bed 1.2 m above MSL. There is existing sand bed on the site from boat yard dredging. It needs extension by another 30 m.
Alternative disposal sites
The Island Council has requested to look into the possibility of replenishing the “tourist beach” on the western end of the island. It requires transporting about 10,000 cbm of sand from the proposed stock pile area to a distance of 2.3 km on the western tip of the island. No agreement has been reached between the Island Council and MHI due to cost over-run associated with this activity. More details of this option are presented in the Alternatives Chapter. Design Specifications for the alternative replenishment is presented in Table 2.3 below.
Table 2.3: Alternative beach replenishment specifications
Elevation Width Site Area (sq m) (m MSL) Slope Volume (cbm) (m) Tourist 20 Beach 6,055.00 +1.50 1:8 10,500
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2.2.1.3 Work Method
Containment bunds will be constructed around the reclamation site using high bed excavators. Sand will be sourced from the island facing side of the bunds. The outlet for process water outflow will be located on the northern end of the sand bund.
Dredging Technology
This project will use a Cutter-Suction Dredger (CSD) and excavators to undertake dredging and reclamation. The sections along the channel with soft sand will be dredged using the CSD and all the area with a hard material will be dredging by an excavator mounted on a spud barge.
A CSD is a stationary dredger, which dislodges the material with a rotating cutter head equipped with cutting teeth and mounted on a ladder. The proposed dredger is IHC Beaver 300 C (See Figure 2.3) with a 241 hp pump, 6.0 m dredge depth and a 260 mm discharge pipe. The loosened material is sucked into the suction mouth located in the cutter head by means of a centrifugal pump, which is installed on the dredge pontoon or on the ladder of the dredger. The dredger can pump between 130-160 cbm/hour. The amount of material not entering the suction mouth maybe as much as 30% of the total dislodged material. Much of this material will fall immediately to the seabed and will be dredged on the next cut. Only the finer particles will stay in suspension and will be distributed throughout the water column by the local currents. With a CSD, the creation of turbidity is a more or less a continuous process.
Figure 2.3: Proposed dredger IHC Beaver 300 C
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The majority of the suspended sediments will stay within this created channel. As the cut material will be disposed by a discharge pipeline to the land reclamation site no additional turbidity is expected be created at the dredging site. To assess how the suspended sediments are spread over the coral reef areas, it is necessary to consider the local hydrodynamic conditions.
The dredger will dislodge the loose top layer of sand of the borrow area, mix this material with water and then pump the mixture via the pipeline into the stockpiling area. The maximum distance to transport is 700 m. The water will flow back to the sea from either side of the pumped area and the coral sand will remain behind. The return flow will be controlled using a bund constructed along the draining shoreline.
The CSD will be positioned in the deep lagoon using GPS positioning systems and anchored using spuds. In addition, an automated thrusting system with continuous echo sounder measurements may be used to control the ship’s dredging activities. Dredge depth is electronically controlled.
The spud barge mounted excavator will be using for hard soil dredging. The dredged materials will be stockpiled on board the barge to its capacity and once full will be transported to the dredge disposal site directly and unloaded using the excavator.
There may be some disruption to the harbour activities when the new channel is connected to the existing channel but this is expected to be completed within a few days.
Beach Replenishment as a possible alternative
The island council has identified three locations for nourishment using the dredge spoil. The location east of the harbour (as proposed in the site plan), areas west of harbour and the alternative location on the western end. The latter two are for tourism purposes as well.
The contractor has informed that the requested location from the tourism zones of the island is too distant from the proposed channel and cannot be nourished as part of this project. However, the dredge waste stockpiled by the contractor can be transported to the “tourist beaches” if the Island Council can find a suitable contractor or MHI can find additional finance for the activity.
If beach replenishment is undertaken, sand will be transported from the stock pile area to replenishment site on trucks. Once unloaded, loader will be used to push the material into the lagoon to create the beach profile required.
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2.2.1.4 Environmental Management and Safety
Sediment Containment and discharge control
The proposed sediment containment measure is enclosed reclamation. The areas to be filled will be enclosed using a temporary sand bund as shown in Figure 2.4 and Appendix B. The bed will be about 290 m long and shall have a minimum width of 2 m at the top. The height of the bunds shall be above high water mark during all times. All bunding works are to be carried out during calm conditions.
Emergency Plan for Spills
At times of emergencies such as pipe breakage, pipe leakage of bund failure, the CSD will cease pumping to avoid sediment spills in unprotected locations.
Stability of Reclamation
Rate and volume of pumping sediment will be faster than the rate of erosion. Sediment will be highly mobile within the first 10 m from the shoreline and erosion will be prevalent in the zone. It is proposed to protect the eastern rim using temporary geotextile bags to control waves approaching from the east until the permanent shore protection measures can be constructed.
Safety Measures during Construction
The contractor would ensure that Health and Safety procedures are complied with at all times. Construction activities would be carried out under the supervision of a suitably experienced person. All reasonable precautions will be taken for the safety of employees, and equipment will be operated by competent persons. Warning signs, barricades or warning devices will be provided and used. Necessary safety gear will be worn at all times.
Additional Dredge Waste Disposal
Over 90% of the material is expected to be of the useable quality for land reclamation. Any excess larger material will be buried on the reclaimed area, or used as a protection measure near the reef entrance.
Additional Waste Management and Disposal
Small amounts of waste oil may be generated from the operation and maintenance of vehicles. All waste oil will be disposed as per the approved standards of the Environment Ministry.
Small amounts of municipal waste generated during construction will be handled using the island’s local waste management facilities.
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Figure 2.4: Preliminaruy construction plan
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2.2.1.5 Justifications
Need for dredging
Dredging a new channel for safe access to the island has been identified as a priority by the Island Council and MHI. It has been established by both parties that the existing dredged channel is not suitable for access during both seasons. The only way to access from the east is by deepening the lagoon. Thus, if access from the east directly to the harbour basin is required, there is no option but to dredge the channel.
Location
The proposed location has been finalised based in consultation with the Public, Council and MHI. The site is exposed during NE monsoon and may not be useable during peak monsoon. However, the intention is to only use the channel during the SW monsoon and during calm days of NE monsoon. The proposed location is the shortest distance to the harbour basin while maintaining a safe distance from the island shoreline.
Design
The proposed design is a simple channel design used for most of the islands in the Maldives. The 30 m width is suitable for two way traffic of cargo vessels. The design slope of 1:2 or less is common in most islands. The opening of the entrance will be widened to 45 m and the area connecting to the existing channel will be widened to 61 m. This is to allow safe entry and exit from the channel.
Equipment
Dredging using an excavator is the common method used for channel dredging in Maldives, including the existing channel on the west half of Kaashidhoo Reef. However, the volume of sand required to be dredged and a need to complete the works as quickly as possible has prompted the use of CSD for this project. CSD reduce the timeframe for dredging works substantially and reduces the need for temporary sand beds.
2.2.2 Installation of Harbour Facilities
Navigation beacons will be placed at the mouth and end of the new harbour entrance channel. There will be 5 navigation lights and 6 reflective sign posts. The lights will be mounted on precast concrete blocks placed at the site with the assistance of excavators. The lights will be fixed at the entrance of the channel, and the additional lights will be reflective to avoid confusion. The installation of lights will make it safer for vessels as well as locals to use the harbour during night and bad weather.
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2.3 Labour, Logistics and Site Management
2.3.1 Labour Requirements and Availability
It is estimated that a total of 18 staff members
1. Site Engineer – 01 2. Surveyor – 01 3. Dredger operator – 01 4. Excavator operator – 03 5. Backhoe operator – 01 6. Barge operation and maintenance crew – 03 7. Driver – 02 8. Mechanic - 01 9. Cook – 01 10. Skilled Labours – 04
Specialist labour will be required to undertake specific tasks. All personnel will belong to the contractor.
2.3.2 Housing of Temporary Labour
The workforce will be accommodated on rented houses on Kaashidhoo Island.
2.3.3 Services
The Contractor is expected to provide workers with meals and appropriate entertainment facilities including radio and television. The utilities and entertainment facilities on the island are expected to be utilised.
2.3.4 Utilities
Existing island infrastructure will be utilised. Electricity, water and sanitation facilities will be provided for construction workers from the existing facilities on the island. A 13 kWA generator may be used to provide electricity at reclamation site for lighting purposes. The dredger will have its own generator.
2.3.5 Pollution and Emission Control Measures
The following measures will be taken to ensure minimal pollution during construction stage.
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Machinery will be properly tuned and maintained to reduce emissions and minimize risk of spills/leaks.
All paints, lubricants, and other chemicals used on site will be stored in secure and bounded location to minimize risk of spill.
Fuel storage will be bunded
Spill kits will be maintained around island to handle any liquid spills
2.3.6 Health and Safety Measures
The contractor has a Health and Safety programme compiled for this project. The following is a summary of the Health and Safety programme to be considered.
All work practices and procedures that are implemented in the site must be designated to minimize worker to avoid or contact the possibility of physical injury or come into harm.
All work will be performed in accordance with applicable health and safety regulations in Maldives.
Daily safety meetings are held when commencing of each shift to ensure that all personnel to understand site conditions and operating procedures, to ensure that personal protective equipment is being used correctly and to address worker with health and safety concerns
The site engineer, quality and safety coordinator, are assigned full-time basis functional responsibility in implementing the health and safety plan. The Quality and Safety Coordinator’s duties include: • Assisting in providing a safe and healthy working environment. • Reporting and investigating all incidents. • Ensuring proper decontamination of personnel and equipment are accomplished. • Ensuring that air monitoring equipment is calibrated and operational. • Performing respirator fit tests, if necessary. • Inventory and inspect PPE prior to personnel entries into site. • Ensuring proper personal protective equipment is being utilized.
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• Assisting in obtaining required personnel training and maintaining the medical records. • Inspecting first aid kits and fire extinguishers regularly.
All reasonable precautions will be taken for the safety of employees, and equipment will be operated by competent persons.
Site control and Operating procedures will be followed. General field safety rules include:
• All visitors must be sent to the security post. • Eating, drinking, or smoking are permitted only in designated areas in the site. • Safety Equipment (PPE) will be required and easy reach for all field personnel. • Personnel will only travel in vehicles where individual seats for each occupant are provided. • Seat belts will be worn as required. • Fire extinguishers will be available on site and in all areas with increased fire danger such as the refuelling area.
• A minimum of two personnel will always be on site whenever heavy equipment is operated. • Only necessary personnel need to be on or around heavy equipment. • Backhoes or other equipment with booms shall not be operated within 10 feet of any electrical conductor.
Warning signs, barricades or warning devices will be provided and used. Necessary safety gear or Personal protective Equipment will be worn at all times.
Fire extinguishing equipment would be readily available and employees will be trained in its use. In general, water-based fire extinguishers would be used.
Other emergency equipment such as Site office telephones, private telephones, Walkie talkies, emergency alarms and first aid kids will be available on site.
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Oxygen, acetylene or LPG bottles will not be left free-standing. All welding and cutting will be done in accordance to high safety regulations by experienced personnel.
An Emergency Response Contingency Plan is in place with personnel responsibilities. The procedure in case of fire, and medical emergencies are also included in this plan. See Appendix I.
2.4 Project Schedule
Mobilisation for the project will begin after the EIA is approved. It is anticipated that the completion of the whole project will take approximately 338 days.
The proposed work plan is provided in Table 2.4
Table 2.4: Proposed Work plan Summary
PROJECT SCHEDULE AND LIFE SPAN Number Activity Days 1 Mobilization 20 days 2 Dredging, Excavation and Earth work 308 days 3 Demobilization 10 days
Spud Barge (80x30 ft.), Dredger – (IHC Beaver 300 C), Excavators – (SK 300 class), Backhoe Loaders – (JCB), Dump trucks, Containerized office cabin, Tool cabin-with required tools, Lighting plants, Welding Generators and Light equipment.
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2.5 Summary of Project Inputs and Outputs
The types of materials that will go into the development and from where and how this will be obtained are given in Table 2.5 and the type of outputs (products and waste streams) and what is expected to happen to the outputs are given in Table 2.6.
Table 2.5: Major Project Inputs
Input resource(s) Source/Type How to obtain resources Engineers and site Foreign Contractor’s employees supervisors Construction workers Foreign Contractor’s employees Water supply (during Existing desalination plant on Kaashidhoo FENAKA facilities construction) the island Existing electricity generator in Electricity/Energy Kaashidhoo FENAKA facilities/ the island. In case there is an (during construction) Backup power generator x1 (110 KW) issue contractor will use contractor’s backup generator. Import or purchase locally where Material Jumbo Bags (emergency use) available Spud Barge (80x30 ft.), Dredger – (IHC Beaver 300 C), Excavators – (SK 300 class), Backhoe Loaders – (JCB), Contractor’s machinery or hire Machinery Dump trucks, Containerized office locally if necessary cabin, Tool cabin-with required tools, Lighting plants, Welding Generators and Light equipment. Maintenance parts and fluids required Import or purchase locally Maintenance material for the machinery and piping. where available Arranged by contractor. Food and Existing houses Proposes to rent existing Accommodation housing. Firefighting equipment Fire Extinguishers...etc. Contractor’s equipment Fuel Light Diesel, Petrol, Lubricants Local suppliers Mobile phones, fax machines and Telecommunication Contractor’s equipment internet facilities Food and beverage Mainly imported sources except a few Import and purchase locally bottles locally available products.
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Table 2.6: Major project outputs
Products and waste Anticipated Method of disposal materials quantities Barrelled and sent to Thilafushi site during Waste oil Small quantities demobilisation. Dredge waste 57.000 cbm Disposed locally for reclamation Hazardous waste Barrelled and sent to Thilafushi site during Small quantities (diesel) demobilisation. Excavator and dump truck operation will be Noise Only localised noisy. No option available. Managed under existing waste management Food waste Small quantities system of the island. Plastic and packaging Managed under existing waste management Small quantities wastes system of the island.
2.6 Demobilization
The proponent advocates a phased demobilization plan to commence in the last week of the contract. Machinery will have to be demobilized on one specific date.
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3 POLICY AND LEGAL FRAMEWORK
These legal and policy provisions have to be fully respected in carrying out the proposed development. All contractors and sub-contractors will be informed of these requirements. This project conforms to all relevant laws and regulations of the Maldives.
3.1 Relevant Legislation
3.1.1 Environment Protection and Preservation Act (Act no. 4/93)
The Environmental Protection and Preservation Act (4/93) enacted on 19 March 1993 is the framework law related to environment protection in the Maldives. The authority responsible for the Environment Act is the Ministry of Environment and Energy.
Articles 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8 of the law are relevant to the harbour development project.
Article 2 states that the concerned government authorities shall provide the necessary guidelines and advise on environmental protection in accordance with the prevailing conditions and needs of the country. All concerned parties shall take due considerations of the guidelines provided by the government authorities.
The project developers and contractors shall abide by any guidelines or advice given by the concerned Government authorities for the project.
Article 4 states that the Ministry of Environment shall be responsible for identifying protected areas and natural reserves and for drawing up the necessary rules and regulations for their protections and preservation.
The project developers and contractors shall ensure that there is no negative impact from the proposed project on any protected areas.
According to Article 5 (a) of the Act, an Environmental Impact Assessment study shall be submitted to the Ministry of Environment before implementing any development project that may have a potential impact on the environment.
According to Article 5 (b), The Ministry of Environment shall formulate the guidelines for EIA and shall determine the projects that need such assessment as mentioned in paragraph (a) of this clause.
This report is prepared to fulfil this clause.
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According to Article 6, the Ministry of Environment has the authority to terminate any project that has any undesirable impact on the environment. A project so terminated shall not receive any compensation.
All project developer and contractors shall be aware of this provision and contractors shall take all practical measures to ensure there is no irreversible and significant negative impact of the projects on the environment.
Article 7 of the EPPA (4/93) states that any type of waste, oil, poisonous gases or any substances that may have harmful effects on the environment shall not be disposed within the territory of the Maldives. In cases where the disposal of the substances becomes absolutely necessary, they shall be disposed only within the areas designated for the purpose by the government. If such waste is to be incinerated, appropriate precaution should be taken to avoid any harm to the health of the population.
All project contractors shall comply with the Environmental Management Plan presented in this report, which specifies how the wastes, oil and gases generated by the project will be disposed.
Article 8 of the EPPA (4/93) states that Hazardous/ Toxic or Nuclear Wastes that is harmful to human health and the environment shall not be disposed anywhere within the territory of the country.
Any hazardous wastes that may be generated from this project shall be transferred to the designated waste site in Thilafushi for disposal according to Government regulations and standards. It should not be disposed on the Island, as it does not have the necessary facility.
3.1.2 Employment Act (2/2008)
The Employment Act is the legal framework to govern the rights and responsibilities of the migrant workers in the Maldives is included in the Employment Act (2/2008) that was ratified and signed into law in May 2008. The Employment Act provides for the creation of a Labour Relations Authority, an Employment Tribunal and an Advisory Board on wages.
To date, four amendments have been brought to the Employment Act (2/2008). All contractors shall be required to undertake ethical recruitment and responsible employment of workers during the construction stage of the project.
During the operation stage an ethical recruitment and responsible employment policy and system will be developed and implemented and amendments were made through the following Acts: 14/2008; 12/2010; 3/2014; 14/2015.
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All contractors shall be required to undertake ethical recruitment and responsible employment of workers during the construction stage of the project.
3.1.3 Immigration Act (1/2007)
The Maldives Immigration Act (1/2007) lays down the rules for entry, departure and deportation of foreign nationals. Article 15 of the Act provides for work visa: the permit to remain in the Maldives for the duration of a work permit granted to a foreign national visiting the Maldives for the purpose of working, where a work permit has been obtained by that foreign national consistent with the regulations of the concerned Government authority.
It is anticipated that skilled foreign migrant workers will be employed during the construction stage of the project. Special emphasis will need to be given to ensure that all workers have the relevant work visas and proper documentation while working in the Maldives.
3.2 Relevant Regulations and Guidelines
3.2.1 Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations 2012
Environmental Impact Assessment regulations were issued by Environment Environmental Impact Assessment regulations were issued by Environment Ministry on 8 May 2012. The first step in environmental assessment process involves screening of the project to be classified as one that requires an EIA or not. Based on this decision, the Ministry then decides the scope of the EIA, which is discussed with the proponent and the EIA consultants in a “scoping meeting”. The consultants then undertake the EIA starting with baseline studies, impact prediction and finally reporting the findings with impact mitigation and monitoring programme. This report follows the principles and procedures for EIA outlined in the EIA regulations.
The EIA report is reviewed by MEE following which an EIA Decision Note is given to the proponent who will have to implement the Decision Note accordingly. As a condition of approval, appropriate environmental monitoring may be required and the proponent shall have to report monitoring data at required intervals to the Ministry. The project proponent is committed to implement all impact mitigation measures that are specified in this EIA report. Furthermore, the proponent is committed to environmental monitoring and shall fulfil environmental monitoring requirements that may be specified in the EIA decision note as a condition for project approval.
This report complies with the EIA regulations.
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3.2.2 The Environmental Liability Regulation (Regulation 2011/R-9)
This law is pursuant to Article 22 of national constitution that states that protection, preservation and maintenance of the Maldivian natural environment, the richness of the living species, the natural resources and the beauty of the Maldives for the present generations as well as for the future generations is a basic obligation of the Maldivian government. The government shall enforce that the activities conducted in order to gain economic and social development should be of sustainable nature that protect the environment and such activities shall not deteriorate the environment, endanger any species, damage the environment, and shall not waste any natural resources.
This regulation is also pursuant to Environment Protection and Preservation Act of Maldives (4/93). The regulation is aimed at maintaining equal standards for reprimanding and enforcing environmental liabilities, fines for those who violate the rules and regulations and give guidance to those who are involved in the implementation process of the regulations pursuant to Preservation Act of Maldives (4/93).
One of the key objectives of the environmental liability regulation is also to practice polluter- pay-principles in the Maldives.
All project developer and contractors shall be aware of this provision and contractors shall take all practical measures to ensure that all relevant laws and regulations, and the EMP proposed in this EIA is followed.
3.2.3 Regulation on Dredging and Land Reclamation
The regulation of Dredging and Land Reclamation was published on 2 April 2013 with the aim of minimising environmental impacts associated with dredging activities in islands and reefs across Maldives.
The regulation defines the rationales acceptable for dredging as those related to approved development activities on inhabited islands and economic islands. It defines that those activities should be if utmost necessity for dredging to be considered.
All dredging and reclamation activities must be approved by EPA in writing. The process includes the submission of project information to EPA along with a scaled before and after map.
The regulation defines rationales for reclamation as those absolutely necessary for social, economic or safety purpose.
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Beach replenishment is restricted from 10 m of the registered shoreline in resort islands.
Dredging is restricted in the following areas: o 500 m from the ocean side reef edge o 50 m from any island vegetation line o An environmentally sensitive site
Land reclamation is restricted within 200 m of a sensitive area.
Land reclamation cannot exceed 30% of the house reef area
The proposed dredging design falls within a restricted area identified in this regulation: 500 m of the ocean side reef edge. Dredging on the ocean side has been explicitly discouraged in this regulation. Thus, this project does not comply with the regulation as it is.
However, according to section 13 subsection E a provision is provided for discussion with the EPA in determining the location of dredging and reclamation activities if the project is of economic or social importance. Discussions must therefore be carried out between the proponent and the EPA before commencement of this project in order to reach an agreement on how this issue can be resolved.
EPA will grant Dredging and Reclamation Approval at the time of Issuing Decision Note.
3.2.4 Waste Management Regulation 2013
Waste Management Regulation (WMR) was published on August 2013 and came into effect in February 2014. It is implemented by EPA. The aim of WMR is to implement the national waste policy, which contains specific provisions to:
Implement measures to minimize impacts on human health
Formulate and implement waste management standards
Implement an integrated framework for sustainable waste management
Encourage waste minimisation, reuse and recycling
Implement Polluter-Pays Principle
Introduce Extended Producer Responsibility WMR contains four main sections:
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Waste management standards: Defines standards for waste collection, transfer, treatment, storage, waste site management, landfills and managing hazardous waste.
Waste management Permits: Defines approval procedures for waste sites
Waster transfer: Standards and permits required for waste transport on land and sea, including trans-boundary movements.
Reporting requirements: Defines reporting and monitoring requirements and procedures.
Enforcement: Defines procedures to implement WRM and penalties for non- compliance. Waste that can be managed in the island will be transported to the existing waste management area by the proponent. If needed, the proponent shall use registered vessels under this regulation for transporting waste to Thilafushi.
3.2.5 Compliance
In general, the proposed developments are in compliance with the laws and regulations described above. Where there is a special requirement to comply, the EMP identifies measures and mechanisms required to comply.
3.3 Environmental Permits Required for the Project
3.3.1 Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Decision Note
The most important environmental permit to initiate project work would be a decision regarding this EIA. The EIA Decision Note, as it is referred to, shall govern the manner in which the project activities must be undertaken. This EIA report assists decision makers in understanding the existing environment and potential impacts of the project. Therefore, the Decision Note may only be given to the Proponent after a review of this document following which the Ministry may request for further information or provide a decision if further information is not required. In some cases, where there are no major environmental impacts associated with the project, the Ministry may provide the Decision Note while at the same time requesting for further information.
3.3.2 Dredging and Reclamation Permit
Prior to any coastal work that requires dredging or reclamation, a special permit has to be taken from the EPA. A specific form published by EPA has to be completed and submitted for the
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approval. EIA application form will only be accepted when the form is submitted with the costal modification approval given by EPA in writing.
Dredging and Reclamation approval for this project will be issued by EPA at the time of issuing the Decision Note.
3.4 Responsible Institutions
The main government institutions that have roles and responsibilities relevant to this project are summarised below.
3.4.1 Ministry of Environment and Energy
The Ministry of Environment is mandated for the effective implementation of the Environmental Protection Act of the country and has the statutory power over issues related to the environment. It has the central control over the environment protection, management, conservation and environmental emergencies. The Ministry operates mainly at a policy level and the more regulatory and technical assessment activities are mandated to EPA.
3.4.2 Atoll Council
Under the Decentralization Act, Kaafu has an elected an Atoll Council located in Male’. The Atoll Council Office is the main focal point of Government Ministries in Male’ City and they co-ordinate and liaises with Government Ministries and elected island councils on all issues relating to the Atoll.
A copy of this EIA will have to be submitted to the Kaafu Atoll Council prior to submission to the Environment Protection Agency. The letter of receipt is attached to Appendix J.
3.5 Guiding Policies and Documents
3.5.1 National Environmental Action Plan II (NEAP II)
The aim of NEAP II is to protect and preserve the environment of the Maldives and to sustainably manage the country’s natural resources for the collective benefit and enjoyment of present and future generations.
Accordingly, the key strategies of the NEAP II are:
Continuous assessment of the state of the environment in the Maldives, including impacts of human activities on land, atmosphere, freshwater, lagoons, reefs and the ocean; and the effects of these activities on human well-being
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Development and implementation of management methods suitable for the natural and social environment of the Maldives and maintain or enhance environmental quality and protect human health, while at the same time using resources on a sustainable basis
Ensure stakeholder participation in the decision making process by consultation and collaboration with all relevant sectors of society
Preparation and implementation of comprehensive national environmental legislation in order to provide for responsible and effective management of the environment
Adhering to international and regional environmental conventions and agreements and implementation of commitments embodied in such conventions. Furthermore, NEAP II specifies priority actions in the following areas:
Climate change and sea level rise; coastal zone management;
Biological diversity conservation; integrated reef resources management;
Integrated water resources management;
Management of solid waste and sewerage;
Pollution control and management of hazardous waste;
Sustainable tourism development;
Land resources management and sustainable agriculture
Human settlement and urbanization.
3.5.2 Waste Management Policy
The aim of the waste management policy is to formulate and implement guidelines and means for solid waste management in order to maintain a healthy environment. Accordingly, the key elements of the policy include:
Ensure safe disposal of solid waste and encourage recycling and reduction of waste generated;
Develop guidelines on waste management and disposal and advocate to enforce such guidelines through inter-sectorial collaboration;
Ensure safe disposal of chemical, hazardous and industrial waste.
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The proponents of this project must be aware of the policy and all solid and hazardous waste produced in this project should be disposed according to the Environmental Management Plan for the project, which reflects the principles of the Waste Management Policy.
3.6 International Conventions
3.6.1 Convention on Biological Diversity
The Maldives is a party to the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity. The objective of the convention is “the conservation of biological diversity, the sustainable use of its components and the fair and equitable sharing of the benefits arising out of the utilization of genetic resources, including by appropriate access to genetic resources and by appropriate transfer of relevant technologies, taking into account all rights over those resources and to technologies, and by appropriate funding”. The proposed development activities outlined in this project does not fall on any area recognised for its ecological value. Therefore it is unlikely there will be a major loss of biodiversity. The loss is not going to be significant at atoll or national level. Yet, it is recommended that the developer ensure that silt screens are used during dredging works, construction of the jetty and breakwaters to minimise any impact on the marine biodiversity.
3.6.2 International Plant Protection Convention
The Maldives has become a party to the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC) as a step to protecting native plant species in the Maldives from the risk of diseases introduced by imported plant varieties. The Maldives adhered to the IPPC on 3 October 2006 and the Convention requires that certificates of phytosanitary condition and origin of consignments of plants and plant products be used for import and export of plants and plant materials. Contracting parties have the full authority to regulate entry of plants and plant products and may prescribe restrictions on imports or prohibit importation of particular plants or plant products. Thus it is advisable that the proponent be aware of the requirements of IPPC and obtains the necessary phytosanitary certificates if any plants are to be imported to stabilise the beach or for landscaping.
3.6.3 UNFCCC and Kyoto Protocol
The Maldives is a party to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and the Kyoto Protocol to the UNFCCC. The objective of the Convention is to achieve, in accordance with the relevant provisions of the Convention, stabilization of greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere at a level that would prevent dangerous anthropogenic interference with the climate system. Such a level should be achieved within a time frame
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The IPCC defines mitigation “as an anthropogenic intervention to reduce the sources or enhance the sinks of greenhouse gases.” The greenhouse gas inventory of the Maldives forms an integral part of the First National Communication of the Maldives to the UNFCCC. In March 2009, the President of the Maldives has announced the target to make Maldives carbon neutral by 2020. Hence, in the implementation of the project, careful attention needs to be given to ensure energy efficiency and reduce transport related fuel consumption. Furthermore, planting of beach vegetation would help in mitigation of greenhouse gas emissions from the project.
The IPCC defines adaptation “as an adjustment in natural or human systems in response to actual or expected climatic stimuli or their effects.” Various type of adaptation include anticipatory and reactive adaptation; private and public adaptation; and autonomous and planned adaptation. The adaptation policies and strategies of the Maldives are given in the Maldives National Adaptation Programme of Action (NAPA). The replenishment of the beach can be considered as a long-term adaptation measure against beach erosion caused by rising sea levels.
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4 EXISTING ENVIRONMENT
4.1 Physical Environment
4.1.1 Meteorology
The climate in Maldives is warm and humid, typical of the tropics. The average temperature ranges between 25C to 30C and relative humidity varies from 73 percent to 85 percent. The annual average rainfall is approximately 1,948 mm. As Maldives lies on the equator, Maldives receives plenty of sunshine throughout the year. Significant variation is observed in the climate between the northern and the southern atolls. The annual average rainfall in the southern atolls is higher than the northern atolls. In addition, greater extremes of temperature are also recorded in the southern atolls. On average southern atolls receive 2704 hours of sunshine each year. Table 4.1 provides a summary of key meteorological findings for Maldives.
Table 4.1: Key Meteorological Information of the Maldives
Parameter Data
Average Rainfall 9.1mm/day in May, November; 1.1mm/day in February
Maximum Rainfall 184.5 mm/day in October 1994 Average air 30.0 C in November 1973; 31.7 C in April temperature Extreme Air 34.1 C in April 1973;17.2 C in April 1978 Temperature Average wind speed 3.7 m/s in March; 5.7 m/s in January, June Maximum wind speed W 31.9 m/s in November 1978 Average air pressure 1012 mb in December; 1010 mb in April
4.1.1.1 Monsoons
The climate of Maldives is characterised by the monsoons of the Indian Ocean. Monsoon wind reversal significantly affects weather patterns. Two monsoon seasons are observed in Maldives: the Northeast (Iruvai) and the Southwest (Hulhangu) monsoon. The parameters that best distinguish the two monsoons are wind and rainfall patterns. The southwest monsoon is the rainy season while the northeast monsoon is the dry season. The southwest monsoon occurs from May to September and the northeast monsoon is from December to February. The transition period of southwest monsoon occurs between March and April while that of northeast monsoon occurs from October to November.
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4.1.1.2 Winds
The winds that occur across Maldives are mostly determined by the monsoon seasons. The two monsoons are considered mild given that Maldives is located close to the equator. As a result, strong winds and gales are infrequent although storms and line squalls can occur, usually in the period May to July. During stormy conditions gusts of up to 60 knots have been recorded at Male’.
Wind has been uniform in speed and direction over the past twenty-plus monsoon seasons in the Maldives (Naseer, 2003). Wind speed is usually higher in central region of Maldives during both monsoons, with a maximum wind speed recorded at 18 m/s for the period 1975 to 2001. Mean wind speed as highest during the months May and October in the central region. Wind analysis indicates that the monsoon is considerably stronger in central and northern region of Maldives compared to the south (Naseer, 2003).
Besides the annual monsoonal wind variations there are occasional tropical climatic disturbances (tropical storms or low intensity tropical cyclones) in the central region which increases wind speeds up to 110 km/h, precipitation to 30 to 40 cm over a 24 hour period and storm surges up to 3 m in open ocean (UNDP, 2006).
Table 4.2 summarises the wind conditions in central Maldives throughout a year. Medium term meteorological data from Hulhule’ meteorological centre (see Figure 4.1, Figure 4.2, and Figure 4.3) and findings from long-term Comprehensive Ocean-Atmosphere Data Set (COADS) are used in this analysis.
Table 4.2: Summary of General Wind Conditions from National Meteorological Centre
Season Month Wind December Predominantly from NW-NE. NE - Monsoon January High Speeds from W February From all directions. Mainly W. Transition Period 1 March High Speeds from W. April May June Mainly from W. SW - Monsoon July High Speeds from W. August September October Mainly from W. Transition Period 2 November High Speeds from W
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Figure 4.1: Monthly Frequencies of Wind Direction in Central Maldives based on National Meteorological Center 10 year Data (adapted from Naseer, 2003).
N NNW NNE 2500
NW 2000 NE 1500 1000 WNW ENE 500
W E
WSW ESE
SW SE
SSW SSE S
Figure 4.2: 24 Year Wind Frequency Recorded at National Meteorological Center.
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Figure 4.3: Mean Daily Wind Speed and Direction Recorded at National Meteorological Centre (1978 – 2004)
The Disaster Risk Profile of Maldives (UNDP, 2006) reports 11 cyclonic events over the Maldives in the last 128 years and only one event over the central Maldives. All of these events were of category 1 cyclones. There have been no cyclonic events since 1993.
Kaashidhoo Island is located in a moderately high risk cyclonic hazard zones with a probable maximum wind speed of 43.3 m/s (UNDP, 2006). The project site is expected to receive regular annual strong winds during the peak SW monsoon.
4.1.1.3 Rainfall
The average annual rainfall for the archipelago is 2,124 mm. There are regional variations in average annual rainfall: southern atolls receive approximately 2,280 mm, and northern atolls receive approximately 1,790 mm annually (MEC, 2004). Mean monthly rainfall also varies substantially throughout the year with the dry season getting considerably less rainfall. This pattern is less prominent in the southern half, however. The proportions of flood and drought years are relatively small throughout the archipelago, and the southern half is less prone to drought (UNDP, 2006).
The nearest meteorological station to Kaashidhoo island is the National Meteorological Centre in Hulhule’ Island. The mean annual rainfall in Hulhule’ is 1991.5 mm with a Standard Deviation of 316.4 mm and the mean monthly rainfall is 191.6 mm. Rainfall varies throughout the year with mean highest rainfall during October, December and May and lowest between February and April (See Figure 4.4).
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250
200
150
100
50
0 J F M A M J J A S O N D
Figure 4.4: Mean Monthly Rainfall in Hulhule’ (1975-2004)
Analysis of daily maximum annual rainfall data shows high variability, including extremes (see Figure 4.5 below). However, no significant long term trends are evident in the Hulhule data.
Figure 4.1: Maximum daily rainfall by year in Hulhule’ (1975-2005) - (Source: Hay, 2006)
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The probable maximum precipitations predicted for Hulhule’ by UNDP (8006) are shown in Table .
Table 4.3: Probable Maximum Precipitation for various Return periods in Hulhule’ (UNDP, 2006)
Station Return Period 50 year 100 year 200 year 500 year Hulhule’ 187.4 203.6 219.8 241.1
4.1.1.4 Temperature
Daily temperatures of Maldives vary little throughout the year with a mean annual temperature of 28C. The annual mean maximum temperature recorded for Male’ during the period 1967- 1995 was 30.4C and the annual mean minimum temperature for the same period was 25.7C. The highest recorded temperature for Male’ was 34.1C on 16th and 28th of April 1973. The hottest month recorded was April 1975 with a maximum monthly average temperature of 32.7C, the next highest being 32.6C in April 1998. The lowest minimum average temperature of 23.7C was recorded in July 1992.
There is considerable inter annual variability in extreme temperatures for Hulhule as shown in Figure 4.6. A maximum temperature of at least 33.5oC is rare at Hulhule and has a return period of 20 years (Hay, 2006).
Figure 4.6: Maximum Temperature by year in Hulhule’- 1975-2005 (Hay, 2006)
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4.1.2 Hydrology
4.1.2.1 Tidal Pattern
Tides in the Maldives are mixed and semi-diurnal/diurnal. Water levels at the site vary mainly in response to tides, storm surge or tsunamis. Tidal variations are referred to the standard station at Hulhulé Island. Typical spring and neap tidal ranges are approximately 1.0 m and 0.3 m, respectively (MEC, 2004). Maximum spring tidal range in Hulhulé is approximately 1.1 m. There is also a 0.2 m seasonal fluctuation in regional mean sea level, with an increase of about 0.1 m during February to April and a decrease of 0.1 m during September to November. Table 4.4 summarizes the tidal elevations reported at Hulhulé, which is representative of tidal conditions at the project site.
Table 4.4: Tidal Variations at Hulhule International Airport
Tide Level Referred to Mean Sea level Highest Astronomical Tide (HAT) +0.66 Mean Higher High Water (MHHW) +0.39 Mean Lower High Water (MLHW) +0.24 Mean Sea Level (MSL) 0.00 Mean Higher Low Water (MHLW) -0.12 Mean Lower Low Water (MHLW) -0.32 Lowest Astronomical Tide (LAT) -0.81
The predicted tide curve for the period for the month of April 2017 at Hulhule is presented in Figure below.
Figure 4.7: Predicted tides for April 2017, based on data from Department of Meteorology, Maldives
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4.1.2.2 Wave Conditions
There are two major types of waves observed along the islands of Maldives. The first type is wave generated by local monsoon wind with a period of 3-8 seconds and the second type is swells generated by distance storms with a period of 14-20 seconds [Kench et. al (2006), DHI (1999), Binnie Black & Veatch (2000), Lanka Hydraulics (1988a & 1998b)]. The local monsoon predominantly generates wind waves, which are typically strongest during April-July in the southwest monsoon period. Wave data for Male and Hulhulé between June 1988 and January 1990 (Lanka Hydraulics 1988a & 1998b) shows that the maximum significant wave height (Hs) recorded for June was 1.23 m with a mean period (Tm) of 7.53s. The maximum recorded Hs for July was 1.51 m with a Tm of 7.74s. The mean wave periods were 5.0 – 9.0s and the peak wave periods were within 8.0 – 13.0s.
Waves studies around Maldives have identified the presence of swell waves approaching predominantly from a southwest to a southerly direction Kench et. al (2006), Young (1999), DHI (1999), Binnie Black & Veatch (2000) and Naseer (2003). The timing of the long distance swell waves is associated with the South Indian Ocean storm activity (Young 1999). Waves generated from abnormal events could also travel against the predominant swell propagation patterns (Goda, 1998), causing flooding on the eastern and southern islands of Maldives (UNDP, 2009). The island is exposed to periodic swell waves approaching from the SE. These waves can refract on the reef of the island to directly impact the project site. Swell wave activity may be strongest during the peak SW monsoon. The timing of the project will therefore be crucial and it may be necessary to implement measures to protect the site from these waves.
The proposed site is exposed to swell waves approaching from the SE. The swells are generally present throughout the year but increases in intensity between June and August. The timings of these waves usually coincide with Southwest monsoon and occur between May and November with peak periods between June to October.
Based on existing wave and wind data, the predicted wave patterns around the island are summarized in Figure 4.8.
Due to the geography of the island, the project site directly is exposed to year-round swells from the Indian Ocean. Furthermore, the isolated nature of the island and the atoll allows a wide fetch for SW and NE monsoon swells. The island is exposed to swell waves throughout the year with intensity increasing between June and October.
The proposed channel site is mainly exposed to strong swells and wind waves between December to February, and July to August.
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Maldives experiences occasional flooding caused by long distance swell waves that are generated by South Indian Ocean storms (Goda 1988). The swell waves of height 3 m that flooded Male’ and Hulhulé’ in 1987 are said to have originated from a low pressure system off west coast of Australia. In addition, Maldives has recently been subject to an earthquake- generated tsunami reaching heights of 4.0 m on land (UNEP, 2005). Historical wave data from Indian Ocean countries show that tsunamis have occurred in more than 1 occasion, most notable has been the 1883 tsunami resulting from the volcanic explosion of Karakatoa (Choi et al., 2003).
In addition to swell waves, islands of the Maldives are also exposed to storm surges associated with localised storms and cyclonic events (UNDP 2009). However, the Disaster Risk Assessment report (UNDP, 2006), reported that Kaashidhoo island is located at a moderate storm surge hazard zone with a maximum probably maximum storm surge of 0.60 m.
4.1.2.3 Currents
In general, currents which affect the sea areas around the islands reef system can be the result of one or more of tidal currents, wind-induced currents and wave-induced currents. It is presumed that dominating two monsoon season winds have a greater effect on both oceanic currents lagoon currents around Maldives. Westward flowing currents are dominated from January to March and eastwardly from May to November. In the project site, the current will transition from SW to NE monsoon and will be affected by the tide cycle as well.
In situ current measurements of the project site varied based on location and tide. These measurements will be affected by the monsoon and the tide cycle as well. Data on current flow at the site is provided in Figure 4.9. These measurements were taken during the transition from SW to NE monsoon.
These measurements should be treated with caution as it represents data for a single day and was observed only in a one hour window. Prolonged measurements over two seasons are required to provide exact values of current speed.
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Figure 4.8: Estimated wave patterns of the site
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Figure 4.9: Measured current patterns around Project Site
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4.1.3 Beach
4.1.3.1 Coastal Modifications
The island has undergone major coastal modifications (see Figure 4.10). A channel has already been dredged on the western half of the lagoon in the early 2000s and the resulting material was placed on the side of the channel (about 230 ft from the channel). The material has now migrated closer to the island and continues to change its shape (see Figure 4.10). Channel mouth was re- dredged during harbour redevelopment project and the resulting material was again placed next to the previous dredge waste island. The presence of the dredge waste island had localised changes to the island lagoon and possibly to some extent on the island shoreline.
The harbour basin was also dredged in the early 2000s along with the channel. Land reclamation of about 4.7 Ha was undertaken to dispose the dredge waste. However, the breakwater was constructed in the early 2010s. An additional boat yard area was also dredged during the harbour redevelopment (see Figure 4.10). The presence of harbour basin has stopped the limited longshore movement along the northern shoreline of Kaashidhoo Island.
Since the introduction of Guest House Tourism on the island, sea grass removal and beach replenishment was undertaken on the western end of the island (see Figure 4.10). There are also two groynes installed in this area with mixed results. The area continues to erode and is in need for further replenishment.
4.1.3.2 Historical changes and long-term erosion
Analysis of historical changes to beach was undertaken using remote sensing technology by comparing aerial photographs from 1969 (see Figure 4.11) against aerial images and satellite image from 1998, 2004, 2005, 2009, 2013 and 2016.
The results show that the island has undergone major shoreline changes in some sections of the island over the last 45 years. Comparison of data between 1969 and 2017 show that both the eastern and western ends of the island have undergone substantial changes (See Figure 4.11). In general, the ocean side shoreline has retreated but the eastern and western has accreting using the eroded material. This pattern of both tips growing towards inner lagoon is a prevalent feature of semi-circular shaped islands located parallel to the prevalent swells (eg, HA, Baarah, Sh. Eriadhoo). Over the last 49 years, Island the island has lost about 8.69 Ha and has naturally accreted about 7.4 Ha, most of which are found on both ends as described above. In addition, 4.7 Ha of land has been reclaimed. All in all, there is a net gain of 3.41 Ha of vegetated land over the last 49 years.
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The above discussion is based on comparison of data at two points in time. Comparison of shoreline changes over multiple years show that much of the erosion on the ocean side occurred prior to the 1990’s (See Figure 4.18) except for the northern end, where erosion is still prevalent (See Figure 4.13). The western tip advanced by 166 m and accretion 5.38 Ha since 1969 but has slowed down in the last 13 years.
The eastern end advanced in a similar pattern to western end, although the amount deposited was 2 Ha. Much of the material came directly from the northern shoreline (See Figure 4.13). The pattern of growth was more NW prior to the mid-2000s but recent years have shown a consistent west ward movement (See Figure 4.14). The average beach extension rate (westward) over the last 20 years was at 3.55 m per year.
4.1.3.3 Predicted short-term beach changes
The growth of western and eastern end is likely to continue at its present rate for the next few years. Erosion along the northern shoreline will also continue to feed the eastern tip growth. Beach replenishment work undertaken on the western end is likely to speed up the western end vegetated area growth and the replenished beach is likely to continue to erode.
The stagnant nature of flow along the northern shoreline will deprive the area of a wide beach and will continue experience waves running up to the vegetation line.
4.1.3.4 Beach profiles
Beach profiles provide invaluable information about the sediment volume, beach slope and changes to volume and slope over time. In addition the slope, height and width are good indicators of wave and wind conditions, and erosion dominant areas. In general, gentler slopes and wider widths indicate an accreting area with generally lower wave energy and erosion at the time of the survey. Steeper slopes indicate stronger wave energy particularly if the beach material is composed of coarser material. Steeper slopes are also associated with severe erosion, in other areas.
Beach profiles for the island are presented in Appendix E.
In general the profiles show a low elevation along the lagoon facing shoreline. The eastern end shows erosion scarps but the rest of the profiles show calm condition profiles.
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4.1.3.5 Description of Existing Coastal Conditions
North eastern Side
North eastern side currently experiences server erosion, contains steep beach slopes and sediment size range between cobbles and boulders. There are exposed beach rock areas and shallow reef flat, with occasional rubble ramparts or similar deposits.
Eastern Shoreline
The eastern shoreline is the oceanward shoreline of the island. The shoreline is characterized by boulders and cobbles, with extensive areas of beach rock. Beach slopes are steep and high and erosion scarps are visible generally throughout the shoreline.
South western Shoreline
Similar to the NE side, the area contains limited beach and sand size ranges from coarse sand to cobbles. Waves run up to vegetation line.
Western Shoreline
The western shoreline faces the calm inner lagoon and comprises of low elevation, gentle slopes and areas of little or no beach. The lagoon is heavily covered in seagrass and hence large areas of the beach are covered with seagrass debris. The sediments range from fine sand to coarse sand.
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Figure 4.10: Coastal Modifications
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Figure 4.11: Medium-term shoreline changesxx
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Figure 4.12: Short-term shoreline changes
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Figure 4.13: Short-term shoreline changes on the eastern end
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4.1.4 Water quality assessment
The primary objective of the marine water quality sampling was to determine the present conditions of the marine water and groundwater around the island. Water samples were collected from 4 locations, on 11h October 2017 in clean 1500 ml PET bottles. PET bottles were rinsed with water to be sampled, before sampling.
The following parameters were tested; physical appearance, Turbidity, Total Suspended Solids (TSS), Nitrates and Phosphates. The parameters were analysed at the Malé Water and Sewerage Company (MWSC) Water Quality Assurance Laboratory.
Table 4.5 shows the test results of the marine and Table 4.6 shows the result of ground water quality assessment. Laboratory test results are attached in Appendix C.
Table 4.5: Water Quality Results for seawater samples, 11 October 2017
Optimal Results Parameter Range SW1-C SW2-H SW3-R Clear Clear with Clear with Clear with particles Physical appearance particles particles Temperature (oC) 18-32 26.8 26.5 27.7 pH 8.0 – 8.3 8.39 8.14 8.23 No stated 2.9 2.3 15.2 Nitrate (mg/L) reference No stated 0.05 0.47 0.47 Phosphate (mg/L) reference Total Suspended Solids No stated <5 (LoQ <5 (LoQ <5 (LoQ 5mg/L) (mg/L) reference 5mg/L) 5mg/L) Total Dissolved Solids No stated 35503.711 35532.930 35540.848 (mg/L) reference No stated 56508 56279 56674 Conductivity (μS/cm) reference No stated 122.4 111.5 109.70 Dissolved Oxygen (%) reference NTU 6.65 1.01 0.198 Turbidity (NTU) <5 No stated - - - Salinity (%) reference
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Table 4.6: Water Quality Results for groundwater samples, 11 October 2017
Parameter Optimal Range GW2
Temperature (oC) - 27.7 pH 6.5-8.5 7.56
Total Dissolved Solids (mg/L) 500-2000 648.356
Conductivity (μS/cm) No stated reference 1049
Dissolved Oxygen (%) No stated reference 67
Salinity (%) No stated reference 0.49
Most water quality parameters were within the optimal range. One marine sample showed a slightly higher turbidity than the optimal value. The nitrate and phosphate levels were low in all marine the samples. The results show that the marine water qualities for all parameters tested are within the acceptable ranges at all sites.
The ground water sample had a neutral PH, very low salinity and conductivity. The dissolved oxygen was high. Overall, the groundwater results show that all parameters tested are were acceptable.
4.1.5 Bathymetry
A detailed bathymetric survey of the study site was undertaken during the field visit on 11th October 2017. Survey results have been summarised in bathy charts Appendix F. The depth figures presented are in meters below sea level (MSL).
The proposed channel site has an average depth between -1.5 to -2.0 m MSL. The proposed reclamation and sand stockpiling area has an average depth of -0.7 m MSL.
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4.2 Biological Environment
4.2.1 Overview
As the main project site is mainly a marine area, no terrestrial surveys were done. The only relevant terrestrial site is the beach area near the stockpile location which is close to coastal vegetation. No bird species or other faunal species of significant importance was identified at the surveyed site.
4.2.1 Photo Quadrat Survey and Fish Census
Figure below shows the number of fish families and species that was recorded along each transect at Kaashidhoo Reef. A complete list of fishes recorded is presented in Figure table 1-10
Lowest number of fish species was recorded at T1, and highest number of fish species was recorded at T2 with 14 different fish families
Kaashidhoo Fish count
40 37 35 30 28 25 20
count 14 15 12 10 5 0 T1 T2
Number of Fish Family Number of Fish Species
Figure 4.14: Number of Fish families and Species recorded per transect at Kaashidhoo reef.
Transect 1
This transect was deployed at 7 m depth, along the reef edge (please refer map for location). This site was assessed as to see the coral coverage and if any impact to the reef can occur from the proposed project activities.
Analysis of the photos shows that the dominant benthic substrate at this site is live coral (30%± 17.95 SE) of the survey area. Massive type Porites were the only coral genera observed from this site.
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A total of 28 fish species 12 fish families were recorded during the fish census. Highest number of fishes were recorded from families Acanthuridae (5 species) they are algae grazers and feed on plankton/zooplankton.
Figure 4.15: Selected images showing variety of coral species along transect 1
40.00
35.00 30.00 29.00
30.00 SE
± 25.00 19.00 20.00
15.00 11.00
% Mean Mean % cover 10.00 5.00 5.00 3.00 2.50 0.50 0.00 Live Coral Turf Algae Dead Coral Old dead Pavement Rubble Sand CA (MA) with Algae coral (coralline alage
Figure 4.16: benthic substrate composition along transect 1
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Transect 2
This transect was deployed at 8 m depth, along the reef edge (please refer map for location). Live coral made about (32.50%± 21.51 SE) of the transect line Massive type Porites.
A total 26 fish species belonging to 14 fish families were recorded during the fish census at this site. Highest number of fishes were recorded from Acanthuridae (6 species) and Lutjanidae (5 species). Most members of Lutjanidae (Snappers) mainly feed on small fishes, crustaceans, Gastropods, cephalopods and zooplankton. While members of Acanthuridae (Surgeon fish) are mainly algae grazers and feed on plankton/zooplankton.
Figure 4.17: Selected images showing benthic substrate cover along transect 2
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45.00 40.00 35.00 32.50 SE 29.00 ± 30.00 25.00 20.00 16.50 15.00 9.50
% Mean Mean % cover 10.00 4.00 4.00 5.00 2.00 1.00 1.50 0.00
Figure 4.18: Benthic substrate composition along transect 2
4.2.2 Visual Snorkelling Survey
Visual snorkelling surveys were carried out at select locations of the lagoon.
Site 1 – Timed Swim 1: Proposed Channel Dredge zone
Please refer to the map for proposed site location. Depth ranged between 32.5m. Visibility 20m distance. The site is mainly made up of 60% live coral, 40% Rock & 10% sand. Most dominant Fish families observed in this area was Scaridae (Parrot fish) & Acanthuridae (Surgeon fish). The dominant Species of coral observed in this area was Porites.
Figure 4.19: Proposed Channel dredge zone
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Site 2 – Timed Swim 2
Please refer to the map for site location. General condition of the site visibility was 5m, depth range was 0.5~1m. Predominant benthic substrate observed was seagrass 70%, sand: 30%. No fish life was observed.
Figure 4.20: Sea grass found within project site foot print.
Site 3 – Timed Swim 3: opposite proposed dredged material disposal site
Average depth recorded is 4m, and was predominantly made up of sandy bottom. The visibility was very poor. No significant marine life was observed here.
Figure 4.21: General lagoon conditions near disposal site
Site 4- Timed Swim 4: south western end of the island
Visibility was 1.5m, depth range was 0.5m Predominant benthic substrate observed was Seagrass 100% No significant fish life was observed at this site.
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Figure: 4.22: Seagrass and macroalgae species observed at TS4
Table 4.7: fish Census conducted on Kaashidhoo reef
Abundance Species Common Name T1 T2 MORAY EELS Gymnothorax javanicus Giant Moray 2
Cephalopholis argus Peacock Rock Cod 3 3
Plectorhinchus vittatus Oriental Sweetlips 3 3 Plectorhinchus albovittatus Giant Sweetlips 1 1 EMPERORS
Monotaxis grandoculis Large-eye Bream 3 3 SNAPPERS Lutjanus monostigma One-spot Snapper 2 Lutjanus gibbus Humpback Snapper 4 Lutjanus bohar Red Bass (Red Snapper) 3 3 Macolor macularis Midnight Snapper 3 3 Macolor niger Black Snapper 5 5 FUSILIERS Caesio varilineata Thin-lined Fusilier 3 3 Pterocaesio tile Blue Dash Fusilier 5 GOATFISHES Parupeneus macronema Long-barbel Goatfish 3 3 Mulloidichthys vanicolensis Yellow-stripe Goatfish 3 Parupeneus barberinus Dash-and-Dot Goatfish 3 3 BUTTERFLYFISHES Hemitaurichthys zoster Black Pyramid Butterflyfish 5 5
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Abundance Species Common Name T1 T2 MORAY EELS Chaetodon meyeri Meyer's Butterflyfish 3 3 Forcipiger longirostris Very-long-nose Butterflyish 3 3 ANGELFISHES Pygoplites diacanthus Regal Angelfish 1
Centropyge multispinis Many-spined angelfish 2 DAMSELFISHES Chromis dimidiata Two-tone Puller 3 3 Pomacentrus indicus Indian Damsel 3 3 Pomacentrus chrysurus White-tail Damsel 3 3 PARROTFISHES Scarus strongylocephalus Sheephead Parrotfish 3 3 Scarus sordidus Shabby Parrotfish 4 4 Scarus niger Dusky Parrotfish 3 3 Scaridae Hump Head Parrotfish 1 Scaridae quoyi Green-blotched Parrotfish 3 3 MOORISH IDOLS Zanclus cornutus Moorish Idol 3 3 SURGEONFISHES Acanthurus leucosternon Powder-blue Surgeonfish 3 3 Acanthurus nigricauda Eye-line Surgeonfish 3 3 Ctenochaetus striatus Fine-lined Bristletooth 3 3 Zebrasoma desjardinii Sailfin Surgeonfish 3 3 Zebrasoma scopas Brown Tang 3 3 Naso vlamingii Big-nose Unicornfish 2 TRIGGERFISHES Balistoides viridescens Titan Triggerfish 1 1 Melichthys indicus Indian Triggerfish 3 3
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4.3 Natural Hazard Assessment for the Site
According to the UNDP Disaster Risk Assessment Report of Maldives in 2006, Kaashidhoo Islands’ placement in the in the atoll exposes the island to moderate cyclone hazards, wind storms, storm surges and swell waves. The report also notes that Kaashidhoo is highly vulnerable to tsunami risk. Findings of the report applicable to the project site have been used in this hazard risk assessment section. Kaashidhoo is among the top 20 islands with multi-hazard physical vulnerability risk.
4.3.1 Predicted Hazards
4.3.1.1 Rainfall
The mean annual rainfall at Hulhule’, the closest monitoring station to the project site which is located approximately 78 km, is 1991.5 mm with a Standard Deviation of 291.2 mm. Rainfall varies throughout the year with mean highest rainfall between September and December, and lowest between February and April.
Future Event and Impact Threshold Prediction
The probable maximum precipitations predicted for Hulhule’ by UNDP (2006) are shown in Table 4.8.
Table 4.8: Probable Maximum Precipitation for various Return periods at Hulhule'
Return Period
50 Year 100 Year 200 Year 500 Year 187.4 203.6 219.8 241.1
4.3.1.2 Wind Storms and Cyclone Hazard
Maldives being located within the equatorial region of the Indian Ocean is generally free from cyclonic activity. There have only been a few cyclonic strength depressions that have tracked through the Maldives, all which occurred in the northern regions. As mentioned in Section 4.12, according to the hazard risk assessment report (UNDP, 2006), the project site is at moderate risk for cyclone related hazards.
Analysis of all the wind speed data for the years 2002 and 2003 indicates that the probability of occurrence of wind speeds greater than 11.8 m/s is 1.3 days (0.36%) in a year. The analysis also indicated that highest winds blow from SSW – W.
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4.4 Socio-economic Setting
This section presents the current socio economic setting of Kaashidhoo Island based on the island information data provided by the island council of Kaashidhoo Island on the 17th of October 2017, and from the National Bureau of Statistics (Census, 2014).
4.4.1 Population Characteristics
According to the Census 2014, Kaashidhoo has a total population of 1865; Total population of children under the age of 18 is 776 and the total population of seniors over the age of 65 is 84. Majority of the population is between the ages of 18 and 65 with a total population of 1005. In addition Kaashidhoo has a total of 150 foreign nationals residing in the island. However according to the island information provided by the Council in December 2017, Kaashidhoo has a total registered population of 2432 persons.
The following chart summarizes the population composition of Kaashidhoo by age groups based on the Census 2014.
Population Pyramid of Kaashidhoo Island
75+ 65-69 55-59 45-49 35-39 25-29 15-19 5-9
-15% -10% -5% 0% 5% 10% 15%
Male Female Figure 4.23: Population pyramid of Kaashidhoo Island by Age Group
4.4.2 Population Density
Based on the information provided by the Island Council and the National Bureau of Statistics, there are approximately 6 people per hectare of the island.
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4.4.3 Sex Ratio
The population of Kaashidhoo Island comprises of 51.5% male, and 48.5% female on as per the information from the 2014 Census.
4.4.4 Education
Kaashidhoo has one educational institution which teaches up to secondary level education. A total of 90 children are studying in Preschool level with 6 local teachers. 252 children are studying in primary level with 18 local teacher and 3 experience teachers. 139 Students are currently studying in secondary level with 9 local teachers and 12 experience teachers.
4.4.5 Health Services
There are no recent published reports on health statistics of Kaashidhoo, thus all health-sector related information about Kaashidhoo has been provided on request by the island council.
Kaashidhoo currently has one government Health Centre (Kaafu Kaashidhoo Health Centre) with two general doctors and four public health workers. The Health Centre is also staffed by 13 nurses and one technician. Laboratory services are available in the Health Centre; however, there are no pharmacies in the island.
4.4.6 Utilities and Infrastructure
Since there are no recent published reports on utilities of Kaashidhoo, all utility related information about the island has been provided on request by the island council.
There is one harbor in Kaashidhoo which was constructed in 2011 (700 x 250 ft.).
Electricity service in Kaashidhoo is provided by STELCO. With Four generators:
- Generator set no.1 - 160 kW - Generator set no.2 - 200 kW - Generator set no.3 - 250 kW - Generator set no.4 - 590 kW There is an existing renewable energy plant (45 kW) in the island
Kaashidhoo Island does not have a sewerage network installed. Hence, the population still relies on conventional septic tanks for sewage disposal.
The main source of water for the Kaashidhoo residents come from ground water and rainwater is used for household consumption. The ground water in the island is in good condition. In addition
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Kaashidhoo has no waste management center and there is no door-to-door waste collection
4.4.7 Transport
For public sea transport, Kaashidhoo has two ferries operating within the atoll and four passenger boats operating between Kaashidhoo and the Capital City Male’
Trucks and Motor cycles are the existing road transportation within the island.
4.4.8 Business and Employment
Since there are no recent published data on business and employment in Kaashidhoo, information from the Kaashidhoo atoll council has been used in this section.
The main source of income in the island is agriculture. There are roughly 800 employed people in the island.
There are 89 shops and 5 café’ restaurants. There are a total of 340 farmers accounting for 736 agricultural farms. 40 fishermen, 8 fishing vessels and 4 cargo boats are also present in the island. There are currently 2 workshops on the island
4.4.9 Civil Society Organizations
Kaashidhoo has 14 civil Society Organizations. 6 NGOs are currently active in the island and their activities mainly focus on the sports and recreation on the island. There is also an active and functioning Women’s committee in the island.
4.4.10 Heritage Sites
Kaashidhoo is home to the Kaashidhoo Tharaagandu, which is a heritage site with significant, culturally diverse history.
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5 Stakeholder Consultations
5.1.1 Introduction
Stakeholder consultations for this EIA were conducted on 10th October 2017. Consultations were mainly conducted via formal meetings. During each consultation stakeholders were briefed about the proposed project and asked their views and concerns about the project activities, and to give recommendations. Following is a list of stakeholders identified for this EIA;
Kaashidhoo Island Council Kaashidhoo island general public Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure (planning section)
Following sections provide summary of discussions with each of the stakeholders listed above.
5.1.2 Kaashidhoo Island Council
The meeting with the island council was held on 10th October 2017 (11:30 to 12:15 at the council office’s meeting room. Brief information of the project was given by the team from MHI at the start of the meeting and participants were asked for their views and concerns about the project activities and for their recommendations. List of participants and summary of discussions is provided below.
Table 5.1: Participants list for Kaashidhoo council meeting
# Name Designation Office Email Mobile
1 Ali Sulthan Council President Island [email protected] 7826675 Council
2 Sahula Zahir Council V. Island [email protected] 7717453 President Council
3 Ibrahim Faisal Council Member Island [email protected] 7730499 Council
4 Mohamed Mahir Zimmaadhaaru Island [email protected] 7752721 Isveriya Council
5 Mariyam Shiuna Admin. Officer Island [email protected] 9980879 Council
6 Nafha Aujaz Environment MHI [email protected] 7721554 Analyst
7 Anoosha Hashim Asst. Project MHI [email protected] 3004327 Officer
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Figure 5.1: Meeting held with Kaashidhoo Island Council
Summary of Discussions:
Discussions regarding possible dredge disposal locations; o Approximately 2 ha. of sand will be available upon dredging the channel. o Council wishes to use this sand to replenish the beach areas on the north and west side of the island. o The council wishes to develop the north side to be used as a boatyard. They would also like to keep the channel dug to make the temporary sand bed in place upon completion of the project, to be used as a channel by the boatyard. o The wish to develop the west side as a tourism zone in the future, and replenishing the beach on this side will be beneficial for the locals. o However, the team from MHI highlighted that the project will not have funds to protect the replenished beaches, and that they would strongly recommend to stock pile the dredged sand instead. This would allow the council to use this sand in future development projects of the island. o The council does not believe that the sand can be used for any development activities as they believe it is quite mud-like and a very low-quality sand. The council would also like to add that replenishing the beach on both the sides of the island will be the most beneficial, as they strongly believe that there is little to no currents in this area to cause any significant erosion problems. Justification given for the proposed channel; o The existing channel on the western side of the reef is a very rough area, especially during the south-west monsoon. The channel has also become quite shallow in recent
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years. On an annual basis, at least 2-3 incidents occur at this channel. There are times, when the island remains inaccessible for days. Other discussions; o The lagoon is not used as a bait fishing ground; however, turtles are seen quite often on the sea grass beds but never nesting on the island. o The existing channel has only 3 working lights and they would like to have an additional 5 fixed on this channel. o The council also highlighted that it is very difficult to access all the densely vegetated areas of the island, and has requested the ministries to approve their ring road project.
5.1.3 Kaashidhoo Island Public Committee
The meeting was held with Kaashidhoo Island Public Committee on 10th October 2017 (13:00 to 13:30) at the women development committee office. This committee was formed by the local council to represent the public members of the island when needed for such discussions. It represents members from various age groups, island institutions and both genders. A total of 17 members from this committee attended the meeting that day. Brief information of the project was given by the team from MHI and CDE at the start of the meeting and the outcomes of this meeting is given below.
Summary of Discussions:
Discussions regarding possible dredge disposal locations; o The committee also supports the island council’s view to increase the size of the island by doing beach replenishment activities rather than stockpile the sand, as both those areas are highly useful for the locals. o The committee also believes that there are not much strong currents in the area, so it is unlikely that the replenished beach would erode in the short term. The council also added that if any shore protection is required, the council will handle it by themselves. o The main issue is the existing beaches in these areas are quite muddy, and perhaps the reason for this is due to the large number of sewage pipes laid out by these areas. Discussions regarding the channel width; o The committee believes the channel should be made wider near the entrance, at least to 150ft in width up until the boats can reach the inner lagoon. They also believe that the lights are required only near the entrance, and the rest should be reflective as to not confuse boat captains coming from far.
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o They would also prefer if the wide entrance to the channel path to be gradually curved rather than a straight line to allow smooth turning opportunities for the boat captains. o There only concerns were regarding the delays of the project, and just wish to see it implemented as soon as possible.
Figure 5.2: Meeting held with Kaashidhoo Island Public Committee
5.1.4 Responses by the Proponent for key concerns of stakeholders
Table 5.2: Community concerns and MHI responses raised during stakeholder meeting
# Community Concerns MHI responses Council Consultations 1 Council wishes to use dredged material to The island council has identified two locations for replenish eroded areas on the north and west nourishment using the dredge spoil. The location side of the island. Council justifies this east of the harbour which is close to the proposed proposal as it could contribute to the future channel shall be nourished within the project. plan to develop west side of the island for However, the contractor has informed that the tourism. The council is concerned that the second location requested from the tourism zone dredged material is not of a quality to be of the island is too distant from the proposed used for any other development activities as channel and hence cannot be nourished as part of is the view of MHI. Council stated that any this project. additional shore protection required for the Hence any additional dredge spoil shall be replenishment would be borne by the stockpiled. council. 2 Council wishes to develop a boat yard on A temporary bund shall not be created within this the north side, and hence would like to project. utilize the channel created by creating the temporary bed as an entrance to the boatyard. 3 council requests to have additional 5 lights Number of navigation lights has been revised appropriately.
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# Community Concerns MHI responses fixed on the channel, in addition to the 3 existing lights. Public consultations 1 Committee proposed the channel to be Has been incorporated into the design. wider at the entrance up until the vessels are able to reach the inner lagoon. They also requested the channel to be gradually curved to facilitate smooth manoeuvring of the vessels by the captains. 2 Committee also suggested that lights be Navigation lights are included at the entrances and fixed at the entrance of the channel, and the reflective lights also have been included in the project. additional lights be reflective, as not to confuse the captains.
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6 IMPACTS IDENTIFICATION
6.1 Introduction
The dredging of entrance channel at Kaashidhoo will lead to changes to the existing environment outlined in the previous chapter. Hence the above-discussed baseline environmental conditions are used as benchmarking conditions for assessing the future environmental impacts from this project. In this regard, the aim of this chapter is to highlight and identify the environmental impacts of the proposed dredging of entrance channel on the island. Significant impacts are identified and evaluated in two stages. The first stage identifies environmental and socio- economic components that may be impacted from key project activities. The second stage determines significance of impacts of each component.
The following sections provide details of the evaluation of impacts. The affected area and footprint of the proposed project is presented in Figure 6.1. These boundaries are based on physical conditions and work methods proposed in the project without any mitigation measures. The extents shown are not absolute and do not represent figures derived from sediment dispersal modelling. It is based purely on past experience from similar projects
Nature of potential impacts is defined here as no impact, adverse impact or beneficial impact. Table 6.1 below provides the nature of potential impacts from the proposed project on environmental by the project. Where impacts are not applicable to different components, this is indicated as ‘X’. Some components may be affected both adversely (indicated as [-]) and beneficially (indicated as [+]) from the project.
6.2 Identification of significant impacts
Environmental and socio-economic components that may be impacted by the project as identified in Table 6.1 are further evaluated to identify significant impacts. Assessments of the impacts are conducted using the four criteria of magnitude, reversibility, duration and distribution as described below. Evaluation of key impacts is provided in Table 6.2.
1. Magnitude: Refers to the quantum of change that will be experienced as a consequence of the impact.
2. Reversibility: Refers to the degree of reversibility of an impact (i.e. ease of reversing the conditions).
3. Duration: Refers to the temporal scale (i.e. duration, frequency) of the impact. It does not take into account the duration of the impact’s effects.
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4. Distribution: Refers to the spatial scale of the area impacted (e.g. a small portion of a reef or an entire lagoon)
Estimates for negative impacts represent a ‘worst case scenario’ based on the assumption that the project will undergo full scale development with no consideration for its environmental and social consequences, i.e. significance is assessed prior to implementation of mitigation measures. Values are attributed by the EIA team on the basis of direct observation of surveyed sites, professional judgment and pre-existing experience in development projects of similar nature.
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Figure 6.1: Estimated Affected areas
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Table 6.1: Impact Identification Matrix for the project
Activity
Ambient Noise Noise Ambient Level Air Ambient Quality GHG emissions processes Coastal Groundwater water Marine condition Soil Flora Terrestrial fauna and and flora Marine fauna species Protected hazard Natural & safety risk safety Health and Employment Construction Stage Site setup and mobilization - X - X X X - X X X X - X Worker accommodation and activities - X X X X X X X X X X X X Equipment and material storage X X X X - - - X X X X X X Dredging new entrance channel - - - - X - X X - X X - X Reclamation and dredge waste disposal - - - - X - X - - X X - X Installation of harbour facilities (navigational lights) X X - X X - X X X X X + X Demobilization - X - X X X X X X X X - X Operation Stage Operation of harbour X X - +/- X - X X - X + + X
X (no impact), - (negative impact) + (positive impact) xx for if the worker accommodation is at the storage site with temporary shelters and depends on how sewage is treated etc. For flora and fauna, if temporary site is already cleared then no impact.
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Table 6.2: Evaluation of key impacts on the natural environment during construction and operation stage
Indirect/ Cumulative Duration Distribution Impact Direct impacts impacts and impact Magnitude Reversibility Significance area identification
Construction stage Ambient Noise pollution: Reduced number of Direct/negative; Easily Short term; Vicinity of Moderate – noise level Operation of vehicles, birds reversible project site; Though machineries during site Major negative machinery will preparation, dredging, Impacts accumulate change; not be operated and construction. over time continuously for a long period of time, the close proximity of residential buildings to the project site may involve occasional high noise.
Ambient Air quality Cumulative from Direct/negative; Easily Short term; Vicinity of Insignificant - air quality degradation: Air different project reversible project site; Negligible level emissions during activities Minor negative of emissions transport of labour force change; over a short and equipment to the time period. project site. Furthermore, small amounts of emission are
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Indirect/ Cumulative Duration Distribution Impact Direct impacts impacts and impact Magnitude Reversibility Significance area identification
anticipated during operation of machineries and vehicles.
GHG Increase in GHG gas in Cumulative from Direct/negative Reversible in Short term; Regional level; Insignificant - emissions atmosphere; Operation different project and positive; the long run negligible of vehicles and vessels activities and over time amount of that emit GHGs. Minor negative GHGs are change; anticipated to be released.
Coastal Changes to the flow - Direct/negative Reversible Short term; Western and Significant, Processes velocity; construction of and somewhat with north eastern dredging of the a new channel will positive maintenance shoreline; channel will change the flow of activities and alter erosion currents around the Major negative erosion and accretion island potentially mitigation patterns around leading to changes in the the island. seasonal island sediment movement patterns.
Groundwa Contamination of Cumulative from Indirect/negative Reversible Short term; Island level; Moderately ter groundwater: different project over time significant- Accidental spillage of activities Moderate Though the fuel, lubricants may negative area where cause changes to the Indirect impact on project terrestrial flora and soil activities are
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Indirect/ Cumulative Duration Distribution Impact Direct impacts impacts and impact Magnitude Reversibility Significance area identification
groundwater lens. fauna carried out and where resources are stored is small incorrect construction practices could lead to contamination of the entire fresh water lens.
Marine Contamination of Cumulative from Direct/negative; Reversible in Short term; Project site; Significant - water marine water; During different project the medium to High channel dredging it is activities and over time; long term sedimentation anticipated that sediment Indirect impact on level degrades plumes will be generated physiological fitness of Major negative the overall and will increase marine organisms, and water quality, turbidity and community composition and is a major sedimentation, of the marine ecosystem stressor on the degrading the overall marine quality of marine water ecology. The temporarily project also Furthermore, accidental requires most spillage of waste, fuel, activities to be lubricants and will result carried out
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Indirect/ Cumulative Duration Distribution Impact Direct impacts impacts and impact Magnitude Reversibility Significance area identification
in contamination of within the marine water. lagoon or in close proximity to marine water, thereby increasing the risk of accidents affecting marine water. Soil Contamination of soil: Cumulative from Direct/ negative Reversible in Short term; Island level; Minor- Area of condition Accidental spillage of different project the long term where fuel, lubricants etc., activities and over time resources during construction and which can be storage of material. Minor negative spilled are handled is too small to have any significant impact. Terrestrial Loss of terrestrial flora Insignificant Reversible Short term Localised to Insignificant as Flora and and fauna: no terrestrial stockpiling area the project is Fauna flora and fauna is based in the expected to be affected lagoon and the as part of the project. area demarked for stockpiling.
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Indirect/ Cumulative Duration Distribution Impact Direct impacts impacts and impact Magnitude Reversibility Significance area identification
Marine Loss of marine flora Cumulative from Direct/negative; Reversible Long term; Vicinity of Significant – Flora and and fauna: The benthic different project project site and Permanent Fauna organisms and habitat of activities and over time Major negative seagrass beds alteration of marine organisms in the on the western marine habitat direct foot print of the side of the along the project site. Turtle island. project foot habitats would also be print. impacted during the construction phase.
Increased turbidity and sedimentation: Degradation of marine water during dredging will harm the bottom dwelling Holothuroids, other fish species and corals. Turtle habitats would also be impacted during the construction phase.
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Indirect/ Cumulative Duration Distribution Impact Direct impacts impacts and impact Magnitude Reversibility Significance area identification
Natural Safer access: the new Cumulative from Direct/ positive; Reversible Long term Project site Significant – hazard entrance channel will different project the new risk and provide safer path to the activities channel will safety harbour in rough increase safer monsoons access to the island during the rough South West monsoon Health and Risks to health and Direct/negative; Reversible Short term – Project site Significant - safety safety; During the project duration Risks to health construction risks to Short term; and safety workers health and especially safety is increased, as during chances of accidents are construction high. stage.
Operation stage GHG Increase in GHG gas in Cumulative from Minor negative Irreversible Insignificant - emissions atmosphere; Vessels different project negligible using the channel that activities amount of emit GHGs will results GHGs are in negligible increase in anticipated to GHG in the atmosphere. be released during the operation of the channel.
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Indirect/ Cumulative Duration Distribution Impact Direct impacts impacts and impact Magnitude Reversibility Significance area identification
Coastal Changes to the flow Direct/negative Reversible Long term North, west and Significant- Processes velocity: The creation of with southern side of widening of the the channel will change North, west and maintenance the island. channel may the flow of currents southern side of activities and cause around the island the island. erosion significant potentially leading to mitigation changes to the changes in the seasonal coastal island sediment hydrodynamics movement patterns. around the island near the Changes to the coastal project site. hydrodynamics: The new channel may redistribute wave energy and waves propagating on the reef flat.
Marine Contamination of Minor negative Reversible Short term Entrance Minor – While water marine water; channels and difficult to Accidental spillage of harbour basin clean up and waste, fuel, and will cause lubricants from vessels stress to marine during operation of the ecology, the channel will result in probability of contamination. an accident occurring is low.
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Indirect/ Cumulative Duration Distribution Impact Direct impacts impacts and impact Magnitude Reversibility Significance area identification
Marine Changes to behaviour Minor negative Reversible Long term Along the path Minor- Only a Flora and of fauna: The of the very small area Fauna installation of navigation navigational will be affected lights at the entrance of lights due to the light. the channel will result in night-time artificial lighting that may alter the composition of marine species in the environment. Health and Risks to health and Indirect impacts from Direct/positive; Reversible Long term; Project site; Moderately safety safety; Use of the newly contamination of water, significant – created entrance channel air and soil. Moderate Increases safety will reduce the positive for the possibility of accidents residents of the due rough seas and low island. light conditions.
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7 SIGNIFICANT IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES
7.1 Impacts on Natural Environment during Construction Phase
7.1.1 Noise Pollution and Vibration Impacts
During the mobilisation of equipment and operation of heavy machinery, it is anticipated that significant noise will be generated. However these equipment and machineries are not expected to operate continuously for long periods. In addition restricting activities that generate high noise to daytime will avoid significant noise disturbance to the island community.
In addition, dust and emissions, including greenhouse gases, from vehicle and machinery exhausts will degrade the air quality. However, these adverse impacts will be short term and can be mitigated to avoid nuisance to the island community and workers.
With proper mitigation measures, it is unlikely that noise and air pollution impacts will cause long term effects such as human health risks leading to increased public and private health costs. While emitted greenhouse gases can persist in the atmosphere in the long term, the level of emission from this project is expected to be negligible.
7.1.2 Groundwater and Soil Condition
While the actual dredging of the channel would not have any direct impacts on groundwater and soil conditions, handling of fuel at the worker’s site and the harbour may contribute to degradation of groundwater lens.
Groundwater and soil will take some time to form on the newly reclaimed areas. The exact timing is unknown as no such detailed studies have been undertaken in the Maldives. However, anecdotal evidence suggests that at least one full season to SW monsoon rainfall is required for the first presence of freshwater in the lens. Subsequent seasons will recharge the system over time. With the surface exposed, the amount of groundwater that is captured by the catchment is expected to be over 90%.
Similarly, the soil system will take a number of years, perhaps in excess of 10 years to establish. Thus, artificial strengthening of the soil system will be required.
During the construction phase oil and fuel will need to be handled properly. Mishandling of fuel has led to serious pollution of soil and the groundwater aquifer in other construction projects. The storage area where the equipment are planned to be maintained is most susceptible. This sort of pollution may sometimes have long-term irreversible effects, extending through the operations stage, since such contamination does not degrade itself and is expensive to clean up.
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The clean-up itself may require extensive groundwater extraction, which will cause impacts such as salt-water intrusion.
7.1.3 Marine Water Quality
Dredging the proposed entrance channel will significantly disturb the sea floor, generating sediment plumes, and reduce overall water quality during and a few days after completion of works.
Construction activities will involve significant adverse impacts on the marine water quality. The most significant will be the turbidity and sedimentation impacts from the dredging activities. Turbidity higher than certain threshold levels for longer periods of time will have significant impacts on marine life (see next section).
Based on similar projects undertaken in the Maldives, it is likely that the turbidity at the dredging and reclamation site may reach up to 40-80 NTU at 1-5 m depth within a 100 m radius and up to 10-15 NTU within a 500 m radius when dredging using an excavator.
Suspended sediments are carried by water and/or accumulate in a loose unconsolidated form on the reef bottom. While large particles settle on the bottom of the water body, sediment particles less than 0.063 mm in size (mostly clay and silt) will remain suspended in the water column. Suspended sediment will be easily dispersed thereby causing sedimentation on the reef.
Sediment dispersal modelling is usually required to understand the exact vertical and horizontal extent of sediment plumes. Moreover, geotechnical assessments are required to determine the extent of fines in the dredged areas, so that the information can be used in sediment dispersal modelling. Both of these studies are not required in the EIA ToR. Given the time limits for the EIA in Maldives, such studies are sometimes not possible to be provided with the EIA. In the absence of this data, experience from past projects is necessary to mitigate high levels of turbidity and sedimentation.
In addition, dredging exposes anaerobic layers of sediment, which also elevate the nutrient content in marine water. Increase in quantity of nutrients such as phosphorous and nitrates in marine water increase the rate of growth of aquatic plants and cause Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD) to increase. When BOD levels increase, the water body is deprived of Dissolved Oxygen (DO) and with less oxygen available fish and other aquatic organisms may not thrive.
Construction activities require the use of chemical substances such as fuel, oil and paints. Accidental spillage of such substances will lead to contamination of marine water. Hence strict measures must be taken to prevent spillage of any material into the sea.
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7.1.4 Marine Flora and Fauna
The project activities are expected to significantly affect coral cover as the percentage of live coral cover at the site is 60%. Rocks and sand completes the sea floor composition at this site.
In addition to direct loss of corals, elevated levels of turbidity, total suspended solids (TSS) of water column and sedimentation on the reef, due to dredging and construction works are major stressors to the coral reef ecosystem (Rogers, 1990). Given the scale of the proposed works, significant increase in turbidity, TSS, and sedimentation on lagoon, reef and surrounding area is anticipated.
Corals - with the exception of azooxanthellae corals - relies on symbiotic algae zooxanthellae to produce their energy requirements via photosynthesis. Elevated levels of turbidity and TSS reduce ambient light reaching the corals, decreasing the overall photosynthetic activity of zooxanthellae (Richmond, 1993). Prolonged periods of reduced photosynthetic activities may lead to malnourishment and starvation coral colonies.
Increased sedimentation and settlement of sediments on corals also prevents ambient light from reaching zooxanthellae, and reduces the overall photosynthetic productivity. Sedimentation also triggers corals to expend more energy to clear sediment (e.g. by production and shedding off mucus sheets). Energy if otherwise, coral’s would utilize to grow, reproduce and carryout other metabolic activities (Riegl and Branch, 1995). Furthermore, increased sedimentation impedes successful coral reproduction (Gilmour, 1999), by preventing coral larvae settlement, and survival rates of recruit and juvenile corals (Fabricius, 2005).
A significant relationship exists between the coral morphology and their sensitivity to turbidity and sedimentation. The most sensitive coral types to Turbidity are Soft Corals, Gorgonians and Massive Corals, both falling into intermediate to sensitive range on sensitivity gradient. Turbidity level between 20 – 40 mg/L (14 – 16 NTU) is observed to have sub lethal effects (e.g. reduced growth, and increased mucus production bleaching, tissue damage) on these types of corals. Even for tolerant coral types, sub lethal effects are observed when turbidity levels increase to 40 – 100 mg/L (28 – 30 NTU). Above 100 mg/L most coral species shows mass mortality (Erftemeijer et al., 2012).
Plate, tabular, columnar and digitate type corals are observed to be the most sensitive to sedimentation. Sub lethal effects such as bleaching and tissue damage is observed on plate and tabular type corals when exposed to sedimentation rates of 10 – 50 mg L-1 day-1, while the same effects are only observed on massive type corals only when exposed to 50 – 200 mg L-1 day-1. Most coral species shows mass mortality when exposed to sedimentation greater than 200 mg L-1 day-1 (Erftemeijer et al., 2012).
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In addition to exposure to sedimentation, duration of exposure also plays a key role in determining the response of corals. Experiment on the impact of short-term sediment burial of corals by Wesseling et al.(1999), showed no discernible effect on Porites species after treatment with sediment for 6 hours, but slight discolorations were recorded on Porities colonies for 20 hours, and bleaching was observed when burial period extended for 68 hours. Burial period also is key determinant whether the corals recover or not, from the same study it was observed that Porites colonies that were buried for 20 hours recovered to normal levels within 3 weeks, but those buried for 68 hours left large white patches.
While baseline surveys conducted in October 2017 showed that the bethnic substrate composition in the vicinity of the project site comprised of 30% live coral, it was observed that these were Massive type Porites which are sensitive to Turbidity and Sedimentation. Significant colonies of Soft corals, and Gorgonians, which are most sensitive to turbidity and sedimentation impacts, were not observed in the vicinity of the project site.
As noted earlier, increased levels of turbidity and sedimentation inhibits corals ability to successfully reproduce. Hence, it is important to ensure that dredging work does not coincide with mass coral spawning events. However it should be highlighted the difficulty in predicting the exact day and time of spawning events. Mass coral spawning events in the Maldives are usually reported to occur between March and May; and always occurs during night- time often around full moon days. It is important to keep watch for indication of coral spawning, and cease dredging and reclamation works, or take stricter sediment control measures during mass spawning events.
Furthermore, it is also important to avoid large-scale dredging work during periods of mass stress on coral reefs (e.g. periods of high sea surface a temperature that leads to mass coral bleaching). As any additional stress on corals during such periods diminish their ability to recover. Stricter sediment control measures should be taken, if dredging work is to be undertaken during periods of mass stress on corals.
Fishes, sea turtles and other marine life associated with reefs are also likely to be adversely affected by dredging work. Study on the effects of suspended solids on a planktivores juvenile Damselfish species demonstrated that with prolonged exposure to high-suspended sediment levels, fishes took significantly longer to find food, and consumed less food, which subsequently declined their growth and physiological condition, and increased their mortality rate (Wenger et al., 2012). In addition gills of fishes may be clogged by sediment particles and sediment deposition may cover and suffocate eggs and larvae of benthic spawning fishes. Prolonged exposure to high sediment levels can lead to a decrease in fish immunity against parasites and diseases. As fishes can readily disperse they are likely to relocate to nearby reefs if high sediment conditions persist. Sediment control measures and ensuring that dredging works are completed within the shortest time period is key to minimize adverse impacts on marine life.
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Sedimentation is also likely to cause major shifts in invertebrate populations as sediment is deposited at the crevices/crannies blocking their habitat. This favours domination of invertebrate populations that are more tolerant of the condition. The overall population diversity, size and quality of reef ecosystem are likely to decline due to increased and prolonged sedimentation arising from the proposed activities. A 100 m radius from each of the dredging site is expected to be affected by sedimentation.
Also taken into consideration should be the potential impacts on the seagrass beds both adjacent to the proposed stockpiling area, and on the southern tip of the islands. It is anticipated that the sediment plumes from the dredging of the proposed channel could reach the seagrass beds and be subjected to impacts from sedimentation.
Seagrass beds are ecologically beneficial; with contributing to stabilizing sediments and preventing coastal erosion, and providing habitats for juvenile fishes (Erftemeijer and Lewis, 2006).
Sea grass beds will be impacted by effects of increased turbidity and sedimentation (Erftemeijer and Lewis, 2006). Mortality rates of the sea bed are dependent on the species as the critical thresholds vary. While larger species can tolerate longer duration of sedimentation due to their bigger carbohydrate reserves (Chesire et al., 2002), smaller species are less resilient in a turbid environment (Peralta et al., 2002). Conversely, the smaller and opportunistic species shows higher recovery rates in the post dredging environment (Chesire et al., 2002).
The severity of impact of dredging is dependent on several factors which include but isn’t limited to duration of dredging, quantity and sediments to be dredged, method used for dredging, proximity to seagrass bed and weather/ hydrodynamic conditions at the project site (Pennekamp et al, 1996 and Erftemeijer and Lewis, 2006).
Light attenuation is another impact that has direct impacts on the sea grass beds as a factor of turbidity (Green and Short, 2003). Increased levels of suspended sediments in the water column due to dredging severely limits the light reaching the depth to the sea floor, which in turn reduces light available for the sea grass to photosynthesize.
7.1.5 Impacts Coastal Process and Coastal Hydrodynamics
Any coastal protection measure will bring in additional problems. Development of coastal infrastructure in highly dynamic coastal areas of Maldives without considering proper engineering options is known to have serious consequences (Kench et al., 2003). Coastal infrastructure often alters natural environment processes operating around an island. Careful design and assessment is needed to ensure these alterations remain minimal so that the natural environment could easily adapt any new structures without dramatic changes to existing processes.
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The following activities of this project are likely to have some impacts on the coastal environment.
1. Dredging of the proposed entrance channel 2. Land reclamation 3. Beach replenishment on “Tourist Beach” (if required). Entrance channel dredging deepens the lagoon bed along the length of the channel. Prior to dredging , waves approaching from the Indian Ocean crashes onto the reef rim releasing most of its energy and decaying further as it moves over the reef flat due to shallow water. Deepening the channel reduces the drag and the deeper water allows the waves to propagate faster in the channel than the surroundings. This effect is still only pronounced for 100-200 m due to the narrow width of the channel.
Increases depth also increases wave driven and tidal current flow through the channel. This can have beneficial impacts on the lagoon which is currently affected by stagnation and seagrass overgrowth. It may also cause more pressure on the shoreline with stronger sediment transport during NE monsoon while there is no equivalent change in the SW monsoon. However, again, this impact may be negligible beyond 500 m from the reef edge.
Reclamation will result in the changes to hydrodynamics and coastal processes in the immediate vicinity. The reclaimed area has been identified as a calm zone due to the protection it enjoys during peak swells. Reclaiming the area should not involve substantial impacts from swell wave activity. However, the reduced space for NE monsoon and SW monsoon wind waves to dissipate may slightly increase the wave setup just off the newly reclaimed area.
The smoothening of the shoreline in the proposed reclamation site will allow sediments to transport unobstructed. The area that was growing on the NE corner will now involve sediments moving further west due to the smooth shoreline. There may be no specific increase in erosion as the rate of erosion may not change on the northeast facing side of the island. There is a possibility that the SW monsoon may allow new sediments to eastward and thereby reducing the erosional pressures on the eastern end.
Material eroded from the newly reclaimed area is likely to make its way towards the harbour. The proposed permanent sand bed will serve to contain material from filling the harbour. The bed itself functions as a groyne and may result in accretion on the eastern side of the groyne during NE monsoon and erosion on the eastern side of the groyne during SW monsoon.
7.1.6 Impact on Unique Habitats
Although are no Environmentally Sensitive Areas or Marine Protected Areas in close vicinity to Kaashidhoo island, consultations with the residents of the island highlighted presence of turtles
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on the seagrass beds surrounding the islands. Impacts from sedimentation and smothering of seagrass beds are expected to impact the turtles feeding grounds. Extreme care has to be taken prior to dredging activities each day, to clear the site of turtles.
7.1.7 Impact on Visual Amenity
The proposed project will affect the amenity value of this area due to the presence of construction equipment and noise. The only island to be severely affected is Kaashidhoo Island itself as there is no other island in close proximity of the site.
7.2 Impacts on the Natural Environment during Operational Phase
7.2.1 Health and Safety
The proposed project is envisioned to provide positive health and safety impacts to the users of the harbour and the channel, as it would provide a dedicated route to manoeuvre the vessel from the reef edge to harbour, with sufficiently lighting from the navigational lights.
Health and safety risks arising from construction work is high, especially due to the use of specialised equipment and machinery. Accidents related to equipment use can lead to injury, and fatalities. Materials used in construction, in addition to the equipment and machinery, also involve risks to health and safety. The project activities include measures to minimize risks to health and safety of workers.
7.2.2 Changes to Hydrodynamics and Coastal Processes
The newly dredged channel will alter the current flow and waves in the area. The deeper water will allow waves to propagate faster and the tidal flow will increase through the channel. Given there is adequate protection for the island, and the distance between the reed edge and the beach, this impact will not be significant.
Reclaimed areas usually come a mix of coarse sand and rubble. Areas reclaimed with such sand almost always leaves behind rubble after erosion and may not be suitable for general beach use. Thus, it is possible that the beach around the newly reclaimed areas is not useable for recreational activities due to rubble.
7.2.3 Natural Hazard Risks
The area between the newly reclaimed zone and the existing island shoreline will be subject to rainfall flooding. This is because the elevation of the reclaimed area is 1.5 m MSL and that of the island is 1.2 m MSL. Natural drainage from the island towards sea will be obstructed and flooding is very likely. Measures are required to minimize flooding.
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7.3 Recommended Mitigation Measures
This section describes the mitigation measures recommended for the project based on the main adverse impacts identified above.
7.3.1 Noise Pollution
Due to the close proximity of residential buildings to the project site, the following measures are recommended in order to reduce the impacts of noise pollution.
1. Use equipment with low noise emissions as stated by manufacturers. 2. Properly tune and maintain all vehicles and machinery 3. Where possible, conduct construction activities during daytime to minimize nuisance to humans and fauna. 4. Limit works hours to 7 am – 7 pm when working on high noise activities
All costs included in the contract value as general site maintenance.
7.3.2 Marine Water Turbidity and Sedimentation
Due to the sensitivity of marine environment to the project activities and the reduced natural resilience of coral reefs due to the recent mass coral bleaching event of 2016, preventing damage to marine biodiversity due to turbidity and sedimentation has been given a focus in environmental impact mitigation.
1. Complete dredging work in shortest time period possible; contingencies should be made available for the possibility of equipment failure as has been witnessed in some other dredging projects in the Maldives. 2. All reclamation works to be undertaken behind a bundwall. 3. It is advised to restrict dredging during mass coral spawning periods. Predictions and visual observation should be undertaken by a qualified marine biologist to identify spawning events which usually takes place between April and May spring tides. Many species of corals reproduce during one night of the year and different species may have different spawning periods. However, given the recent stress on the coral reef due to bleaching events, it is possible that corals may not spawn immediately after the event. The marine biologist or the environmental consultant should determine if spawning is going to take place, and where it is taking place within the foot print of the project and advice the contractors. If work is planned for these periods, it is advised to stop dredging work at least for 12 days (5 days before and 7 days after spawning). Daily monitoring by marine biologist is recommended during this period. 4. Excavator movement should stick to predefined routes for travel along the reef.
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5. All staff involved in dredging work must be briefed on the sensitivity of the reef and the mitigation measures proposed in the EIA report. 6. Monitor the level of Turbidity and Sedimentation Rate on select locations to verify that the sediment containment measures are effective (see Monitoring section). 7. Supervise all construction activities to ensure that equipment do not move outside the project boundary, and ensure the reef flat levelling is restricted to the required area only. 8. All dredging works should be completed within the defined timeframe including removal temporary sand beds, if required. 9. Place buoys to clearly identify reef edges as it may not be visible due to turbidity.
No additional costs. All costs included in the contract value. Cost of bund construction may range between MVR 175,000 – 250,000.
7.3.3 Marine Water and Groundwater and Soil Contamination
1. Fuel and solid waste must be handled carefully & transported in sealed containers. 2. General refuse stockpiled in one central area 3. Keep spill clean-up materials readily available 4. Train workers in spill prevention and clean-up, and designate responsible individuals 5. Properly tune and maintain all machinery 6. Carry out construction activities user the supervision of a suitably experienced person
Costs are to be included in the contract value and are mainly the responsibility of the contractor.
7.3.4 Change in Coastal Processes
1. Continuous monitoring to identify abnormal activity. 2. Carry out work in low tide hours and in calm condition 3. Construct a permanent sand bed as a groyne to prevent reclaimed material from being deposited in the harbour. 4. Construction material and equipment will not be left in the beach or in the lagoon in a way that will cause any obstruction to the natural flow of sediments
Construction activities are included in the contract value and are the contractor’s responsibility. Cost of monitoring activities is included in the monitoring plan presented in Section 9 of this report. Additional costs for the groyne if not included in the contract are MVR50,000 – 75,000.00.
7.3.5 Marine Habitat Destruction
1. Clearly mark the dredging boundaries, and ensure no dredging works are conducted outside these boundaries.
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2. Instruct all construction workers to strictly restrict all construction activities within the marked boundaries.
The costs of most activities identified above are included in the contractor price as part of general site management and practices.
7.3.6 Occupational Health Impacts
1. All health and safety precautions described in Chapter 2 will be implemented. They include the following: a. Construction workers operating equipment that generates noise should be equipped with noise protection. As a guide, workers operating equipment generating noise of > 80 dBA should wear ear mufflers and workers experiencing prolonged noise levels > 70 dBA must wear ear plugs. b. Health checks will be administered before work commences. c. Warning signs, barricades or warning devices will be provided and used. d. Necessary safety gear will be worn at all times. These include safety gloves, construction boots, facemasks, earmuffs, etc. e. Fire extinguishing equipment would be readily available and employees will be trained in its use. f. First aid kits will be made available on site. g. The construction site will be properly closed to unauthorised personnel.
The costs of most activities identified above are included in the contractor price as part of general site management and practices.
7.3.7 Natural Hazard Risks
The area where newly reclaimed area meets the existing island is subject to flooding due to drainage changes. The following measures are recommended.
1. Leave a buffer of 15 m on each side of the existing high tide mark with a low elevation (- 0.5 m lower than surroundings. The area should be gently sloped inwards to create a low lying drainage line with gravity taking the material towards the shoreline. 2. If required, an artificial drainage system can be constructed to take the flood water towards the sea. 3. The low area should be designated as green areas.
No additional costs are required unless an artificial drainage system is installed. An artificial drainage system may cost between MVR300,000-350,000.
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8 ALTERNATIVES
8.1 “No-project” Alternative
The option of a no project alternative has been considered for the new entrance channel. The advantages and disadvantages of the No Project option are presented in Table 8.1.
Table 8.1: Summary of “No Project” Alternative
Options Advantages Disadvantages Avoid dredging Environmental impacts related Difficulties in accessing the island a new channel to new dredging such as during SW monsoon is resolved and use the increased sedimentation, Safety risks in island access existing western turbidity level and potential during SW monsoon due to strong channel damage to marine life can be waves around the existing avoided. entrance avoided.
No development costs to the Longer travel distance from Male’ Proponent and higher fuel consumption for the existing channel compared to Changes to hydrodynamics the new channel within Kaashidhoo lagoon Public discontent with the avoided Government Additional land reclamation avoided
Coastal erosion associated with the new reclamation avoided, including potential harbour basin sedimentation
The necessity for the harbour has been established by the public, Island Council and MHI. The consultations have gone through an iterative process to arrive at the requirements, funding availability and timing. The proposed project has similar impacts as that of access improvement projects across Maldives and does not affect any Protected Area or a species in particular. Therefore, it is recommended to proceed with the project as planned with sue consideration to the mitigation measures and alternatives presented in this report.
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8.2 Alternative Dredge Disposal Sites
The project considered the following options for dredge waste disposal.
1. Store the material on the side of the channel as was done in the previous channel dredging project 2. Use all the material for reclamation 3. Stockpile the material for later use 4. Undertake beach replenishment in required areas
Storing on the side of the channel
This option requires placing the dredged material as a sand bed stockpiled parallel to the channel about 100-200ft away from the channel. This is the cheapest option and has the lowest impact foot print as all works are restricted close to the dredging site. However, this option involves ongoing environmental impacts associated with sand bed erosion, shallowing channel and effects on hydrodynamics. These negative impacts were observed on Kaashidhoo, following the use of this method to dispose dredge waste resulting from the western channel dredging project.
Use for Reclamation
The material can be reused for land reclamation. A total of 2.2 Ha can be reclaimed form the dredge waste. It would be beneficial for the community if sand is disposed to create additional land. However, Kaashidhoo Island is not short of land and is not complete necessity. The main disadvantages are associated with the environmental impacts of reclamation.
Stock pile
All material could be stockpiled on the island for later use. This option offers the maximum benefit to the community in the long-run as stored material can be reused for construction, government infrastructure projects like road construction, landscaping and even erosion mitigation. It also offers better controls for environmental impact mitigation and sediments can be contained near the shore.
The main disadvantage is finding a storage space for the stockpile. At present, the island does not have the required 1.2 Ha of land within the vicinity of the project site to store the material. It has to be placed close to the beach, which means reclaiming over a Ha of land, which may not follow the island’s existing shape. Stock piling can also have an aesthetic impact on the island as the pile of sand will be highly visible when arriving to the island. Moreover, coastal erosion is imminent around a stockpiled area and therefore may cause further problem in the long term likely harbour infilling.
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Beach replenishment
It would be highly beneficial in the medium-term to the community to undertake beach replenishment to restore the eroded areas around the island, particularly the tourist beach areas on the western end of the island. A preliminary replenishment plan is presented in Figure 8.1. The main advantage of replenishment is to restore picnic areas of the island and economic benefits in terms of the booming guest house businesses.
However, the cost of undertaking replenishment is substantial as it requires distributing sand over long distances. This project funding does not allow undertaking such a cost burden. The community is very much in favour of undertaking replenishment and the aspect was proposed to MHI. However, MHI informs that there are not enough funds for this activity.
Preferred option
The preferred option is a combination of reclamation and stock piling. Reclamation is recommended because stockpiling also requires spaces and placing sand in the lagoon should follow the island shoreline. Thus, half of the material is proposed to be used for reclamation and half to be stockpiled. If beach replenishment is required, in the future, the stock piled material can be used through a difference contractor.
8.3 Alternative Dredging Methods
The possible alternate methods for dredging the channel are provided in Table 8.2.
Table 8.2: Summary of dredging options
Options Advantages Disadvantages Excavator on Most common method practiced by Smothering of corals and sea grass temporary sand contractors for small scale projects beds and increased siltation due to bed extra dredging for the creation of Does not require specialised skill the temporary sand beds
Very cost-effective Excessive impacts on marine life
Cutter suction Dredging works can be completed Requires highly skilled operators dredger within a short time frame Not suitable for small scale dredging works
Very high cost
Higher environmental impacts for
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Options Advantages Disadvantages process water over flow.
Excavator on Environmentally friendly; less Difficult to operate in limited space. barge siltation as unnecessary dredging is avoided Extra cost associated with additional equipment such as a tug to haul the barge
Cannot operate if lagoon is too shallow
Cannot operate due to wave activity in the area
Based on the above assessment, the use of a Cutter Suction Dredger minimises the time taken for the dredging work. The contractor has deemed a CSD to be financially feasible. It is therefore recommended to use a combination of excavators mounted on a barge and CSD to undertake the works.
8.4 Alternative sedimentation control measures
Table 8.3 indicates the alternative technologies for the sediment containment.
Table 8.3: Summary of sediment containment measures for reclamation area
Type of Advantages Disadvantages Measure Bund Wall Environmentally friendly High impact on marine environment. (Preferred option) Durable Cheaper option
Cost effective
Silt screen Durable Large quantities not locally available
Easy to handle Costly.
Environmentally friendly
For this project, bund walls are preferred due to the small area covered and the small size of the project and the financial feasibility of the option.
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Figure 8.1: Alternative dredge disposal sites
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9 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN
The Environmental Management Plan (EMP) is an important component of the EIA process, needed to determine the accuracy of impact prediction, the adequacy of mitigation measures, and level of compliance with commitments regarding implementation of mitigation measures and monitoring of relevant environmental aspects.
The main objectives of the environmental management plan are to:
Produce a framework for managing anticipated impacts, including practicable and achievable performance requirements and systems for monitoring, reporting and implementing corrective actions. Provide evidence of compliance to legislation, policies, guidelines and requirements of relevant authorities.
9.1 Environmental management system
The environmental management framework for the proposed project is based on the standards and policies set out by the Environmental Protection Agency of the Maldives.
- Environmental Management Planning and establishment of key performance indicators: The EMP specifies environmental management measures and required performance standards - Monitoring and corrective action: The implementation of EMP measures will be monitored. Any inconsistencies between the EMP and its on-site implementation will be identified and addressed through corrective actions - Auditing, reviews and improvement: The EMP will be reviewed. Improvements to the EMP will be made as necessary to achieve desired environmental outcomes.
The environmental management strategy is demonstrated in Figure 9.1.
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Commitment to environmental regulations, policies and guidelines
Environmental Management Plan (EMP)
Implementation of EMP
Improvements to Corrective and EMP preventative actions Monitoring EMP
Review of EMP
Figure 9.1: Environmental Management Strategy flow diagram
9.2 Management structure and responsibilities
The following parties are involved in the EMP of this project:
Project proponent Environmental consultant Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
The roles and responsibilities of the parties involved are as follows.
9.2.1 Project Proponent
Execution of all project activities Preparation of EMP Detailed designs of the project
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Monitoring of the project activities Submission of annual environmental monitoring reports as required by the EPA
9.2.2 Environmental Consultant
Preparation of EMP Monitoring of performance of project activities according to the EMP Auditing the EMP to ensure desired outcomes are achieved Making amendments to the EMP according to the results of the audits Preparation of environmental monitoring report as required by the EPA (detailed in Chapter 9 of this report)
9.2.3 Environmental Protection Agency
Review environmental monitoring report Intervention in the event of a breach in environmental permit conditions
9.2.4 Other Parties
Kaafu Atoll Council
9.3 Non-Conformances and Corrective Action
All non-conformances to the environmental permit conditions, observed during monitoring will be documented. Necessary corrective actions and preventative actions will be identified
Corrective actions will be implemented, with systematic follow-ups to ensure effectiveness of these measures.
9.4 Reporting requirements
Reporting shall be undertaken to provide evidence of the ongoing implementation of the EMP and will cover any training activities, site conditions and operations, monitoring data, details of non-conformances, incidents, complaints and follow up action, results of audits and reviews. Reporting shall be undertaken by the project proponent and the Environmental Consultant.
The environmental reporting process is summarized in the Figure . All non-compliances and complaints during the execution of the project are to be reported to the EPA. The environmental management plan for execution of the project is provided in Table .
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Environmental Protection Agency Project proponent Environmental consultant
Issues raised from periodic review Training of personnel Training of personnel of project Environmental monitoring Environmental monitoring Recording of complaints Recording of incidents audits Recording of complaints and Review of EMP follow up actions Review of EMP
Preparation of draft environmental report
Submission of report Annual environmental monitoring report finalized
Figure 9.2: Environmental Reporting Process
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Table 9.1: Environmental Management Plan for construction and operation phase
Activity Management measures Responsible party Timing
Training of staff and All construction workers and project management staff will be Project proponent & Before contractors provided information on general environmental issues, commencement of compliance with environmental permits and EMP. Environmental construction Consultant activities All staff involved with environmental monitoring will be provided training in environmental monitoring procedures.
Documenting non- All non-conformances to the environmental permit conditions, Project proponent & Continuous during conformances and corrective observed during monitoring will be documented. construction phase actions Environmental Necessary corrective actions and preventative actions will be consultant identified
Corrective actions will be implemented, with systematic follow ups to ensure effectiveness of these measures
Control of water Oil, solid waste and hazardous waste handled carefully and Project proponent Continuous during contamination transported in sealed containers. construction phase
All paints, lubricants, and other chemicals used on site stored in a secure and bounded location.
Littering and accidental disposal of construction wastes avoided by preplanning.
All raw materials stored away from the vicinity of the coastal areas.
General refuse stockpiled in one central area.
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Activity Management measures Responsible party Timing
Construction activities carried out under the supervision of an experienced person.
Regular visual inspection of surrounding marine environment for waste
Waste management All waste segregated, stored temporarily and transferred to the Project proponent Continuous, during existing waste management site and domestic sewage generated construction phase (Waste generated from will be dealt through the existing sewerage treatment system or construction activities, the septic tanks. construction workforce will generate domestic and sewage waste)
Supervision of project Assign suitably experienced and qualified personnel to supervise Project proponent Before activities the entire project and ensure that all activities are carried out with commencement of minimal adverse impact on the environment the project
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10 ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING PLAN
10.1 Introduction
While the negative environmental impacts of the project can be significantly minimised if proper mitigation measures are taken, as identified in Chapter 6, the potential for unforeseen impacts still exists. Furthermore, some of the predicted impacts may turn out to have greater significance than predicted, making the suggested mitigation measures ineffective. Therefore, frequent and regular monitoring of the relevant environmental aspects is a vital component of environment management. This chapter outlines the environmental monitoring plan for the proposed project.
10.2 Objectives of the Monitoring Plan
The main objectives of the monitoring plan are:
To identify whether the predicted impacts are accurate and mitigation measures taken are effective To identify any unforeseen impacts so that appropriate mitigation measures can be taken at the earliest To identify and resolve any issues of social unrest at the earliest To eliminate or reduce environmental costs
10.3 Aspects of the Monitoring Plan
Table below summarizes the key aspects of the monitoring plan. The Table indicates the methodology, frequency and estimated cost for each monitoring attribute that will be required for the proposed project.
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Table 1.01: Aspects of the Monitoring Plan
Monitoring Locations and Indicator Methodology Frequency Estimated Cost Attribute samples Parameters; pH, Temperature, Nitrate, SW1, SW2 and SW3, Marine Water Weekly during the construction Phosphate, Total Laboratory analysis One sample from each US$180 per survey Quality period. Suspended Solids and site at 1 m depth. Turbidity Parameters; Temperature, pH, Total GW1 Ground Water Dissolved Solids, Laboratory analysis One sample from each Monthly during construction US$180 per survey Quality Conductivity and site. Salinity 3 specified locations at Fortnightly during the Sedimentation Sedimentation rate Use of sediment traps US$600 per week project site construction period. All area where oil is Daily for the duration of the Oil spills Visual observation N/A handled project Marine water Maintenance and All area where oil is contamination Oil leakage from Weekly for the duration of the tuning of all handled US$42 per week machinery or vessels project machinery & vessels Excavated area Percent of live coral Line transect survey; cover, and fish species Transect sites T1 and Quarterly for one year after Coral reef health Fish census US$435 per survey abundance and T2 completion of project. Manta tow survey composition Surveying using level, Beach profile Beach profiles staff, compass & D- Erosion and Coastal locations: P1 to P5 Quarterly for one year after GPS US$1230 per survey Changes completion of project. Beach line (at high tide D-GPS tracks along Whole island & low tide) the beach
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10.4 Monitoring Report
Based on the data collected, a detailed monitoring report will be compiled annually and submitted to the relevant government authorities for compliance. The report will include methodologies and protocols followed for data collection and analysis, quality control measures and indicate the uncertainties.
The report will be based on the suggested monitoring attributes in this monitoring plan and that of the decision statement issued by the EPA.
10.5 Commitment for Monitoring
The proponent is fully committed to undertake the monitoring program outlined in this Chapter (refer Appendix K of this report).
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11 CONCLUSIONS
This project proposed by Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure to aims to resolve the access issues faced by residents of Kaashidhoo and visitors to the island due to rough sea conditions during the south west monsoon. The existing entrance channel on the south west side of the island is unsafe for use due to strong current and waves, and creating a new entrance channel at the northern side of the lagoon is expected to provide safer passage to the harbour. This submission seeks to get environmental approvals for the project.
The proposed developments are in conformance to the laws and regulations of the Maldives, other than the dredging and reclamation regulation. All the required permits prior to initiation of the work have already been attained from the respective regulatory bodies. The project parameters cannot adhere to the dredging reclamation regulation as is states that no dredging can be undertaken within 500 m form the ocean side reef edge. However, EPA can grant special approval based on socio-economic importance of the project.
The assessment shows that the proposed development involves significant impacts on the marine environment and potential changes to the coastal hydrodynamics. The main impacts from the project are on marine environment, particularly marine pollution, loss of coral cover at the project site, and downstream impacts to the seagrass beds around the project site which is known to be used as feeding grounds by turtles.
Key mitigation measures for the construction stage include undertaking construction works during calm weather conditions as much as possible particularly when wave activity is calm, carrying out the activities in as short a time period as possible to allow normal conditions to re- establish in the area as soon as possible, and ensuring that all machinery are in good working condition.
Operational stage impacts are mainly limited to potential changes in hydrodynamics which could lead to erosion. As it is not possible to identify with certainty whether erosion occur, no specific erosion prevention measures are proposed but appropriate action will be decided after monitoring the changes.
The alternative options for disposing sand were explored but a combination of land reclamation and stockpiling was recommended as stockpiling it provided the maximum long-term benefits to the community from dredge waste. The Island Council wanted to undertake beach replenishment in the newly planned tourist beach but MHI reports that there aren’t enough funds for such an activity. Silt screens were considered as an alternative sedimentation control measure. However
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Monitoring of the project is crucial particularly the changes to hydrodynamics, shoreline, water quality, and lagoon benthos recovery.
The necessity for the project has been established by the public, Island Council and MHI through a separate process. This report has evaluated the scope, methods and designs for the proposed projects and finds that it involves common impacts found in access improvement projects across Maldives. There are no sensitive environments, Marine Protected Areas or critical species irreversibly affected from this project. Therefore, it is recommended to proceed with the project with the mitigation measures, alternatives and management plan recommended in this EIA.
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REFERENCES
Binnie Black & Veatch 2000, Enviromental / Technical study for dredging / reclamation works under Hulhumale' Project - Final Report, Ministry of Construction and Public Works, Male'.
Biribo, N & Woodroffe, CD 2013, 'Historical area and shoreline changes of reef islands around Tarawa Atoll, Kiribati', Sustainability Science, vol. 8, no. 3, pp. 345-62.
DHI 1999, Physical modelling on wave disturbance and breakwater stability, Fuvahmulah Port Project, Port Consult, Denmark.
Edwards, AJ, Clark, S, Zahir, H, Rajasuriya, A, Naseer, A & Rubens, J 2001, 'Coral Bleaching and Mortality on Artificial and Natural Reefs in Maldives in 1998, Sea Surface Temperature Anomalies and Initial Recovery', Marine Pollution Bulletin, vol. 42, no. 1, pp. 7-15.
Goda, Y 1998, Causes of high waves at Maldives in April 1987, Asia Development Bank, Male'.
Gourlay, MR 1988, 'Coral cays: Products of wave action and geological processes in a biogenic environment', Proceedings of the 6th International Coral Reef Symposium, Australia, vol. 2, pp. 491-6.
Gourlay, MR 2011, 'Wave Shoaling and Refraction', in D Hopley (ed.), Encyclopedia of Modern Coral Reefs: structure, form and process, Springer, Dordrecht, The Netherlands, pp. 1149-54.
Hay, JE 2006, 'Climate Risk Profile for the Maldives'.
Hopley, D 1982, The Geomorphology of the Great Barrier Reef: Quaternary Development of Coral Reefs, Wiley.
Isles: Development Information of the Nation, President's Office, 2012 [online]. Available at:http://isles.egov.mv/
Kench, PS & Brander, RW 2006, 'Reponse of reef island shorelines to seasonal climate oscillations: South Maalhosmadulu atoll, Maldives', Journal of Geophysical Research, vol. 111, no. F01001, pp. 1-12.
Kench, PS 2010, Coastal Monitoring, Reef Island Shoreline Dynamics and Management Implication: Final Report, Environment Protection Agency, Ministry of Housing, Transport and Environment, Malé, Maldives.
Kench, PS 2011, 'Maldives', in D Hopley (ed.), Encyclopedia of Modern Coral Reefs: structure, form and process, Springer, Dordrecht, The Netherlands, pp. 648-53.
Kench, PS 2013, 'Coral Systems', in J Shroder & JD Sherman (eds), Treatise on Geomorphology, Academic Press, San Diego, CA, vol. 10, Coastal Geomorphology, pp. 328-59.
Kench, PS, Brander, RW, Parnell, KE & McLean, RF 2006a, 'Wave energy gradiants across a Maldivian atoll: Implications for island geomorphology', Geomorphology, vol. 81, pp. 1-17.
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Kench, PS, Brander, RW, Parnell, KE & McLean, RF 2006b, 'Wave energy gradients across a Maldivian atoll: Implications for island geomorphology', Geomorphology, vol. 81, no. 1-2, pp. 1-17.
Kench, PS, Parnell, K & Brander, R 2003, 'A Process Based Assessment of Engineered Structures on Reef Islands of the Maldives', paper presented to Coasts and Ports 2003 Australasian Conference: Proceedings of the 16th Australasian Coastal and Ocean Engineering Conference, the 9th Australasian Port and Harbour Conference and the Annual New Zealand Coastal Society Conference, Barton, A.C.T, Institution of Engineers, Australia.
Kench, PS, Parnell, KE & Brander, RW 2009, 'Monsoonally influenced circulation around coral reef islands and seasonal dynamics of reef island shorelines', Marine Geology, vol. 266, pp. 91- 108.
MEC 2004, Maldives: State of the Environment 2004, Ministry of Envrionment and Construction, Male'.
MHAHE 2001, First National Communication of the Maldives to the UNFCCC, by MHAHE, Ministry of Home Affairs, Housing and Environment (MHAHE).
MHE 2011, Survey of Climate Change Adaptation Measures in Maldives - Final Report by Shaig, A, Version 2 edn, Ministry of Housing and Environment (MHE).
Ministry of Planning and National Development, 2002.Population and Housing Census 2000 of the Maldives Analytical Report.Ministry of Planning and National Development, Male’, Maldives.
Ministry of Planning and National Development, 2008. Population and Housing Census 2006 of the Maldives Analytical Report, Ministry of Planning and National Development, Male’, Maldives
MTAC 2013, Maldives Visitor Survey, by MTAC.
Naseer, A 2003, 'The integrated growth response of coral reefs to environmental forcing: morphometric analysis of coral reefs of the Maldives.', PhD thesis, Dalhousie University.
Samosorn, B & Woodroffe, CD 2008, 'Nearshore wave environments around a sandy cay on a platform reef, Torres Strait, Australia', Continental Shelf Research, vol. 28, pp. 2257-74.
Sandcays, 2014, EIA for the Proposed Construction of Harbour in K.Guraidhoo, Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure, Male’, Maldives
UNDP 2005, Developing a Disaster Risk Profile for Maldives: Final Report, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Maldives.
UNDP 2006, Developing a Disaster Risk Profile for Maldives, United Nations Development Programme and Government of Maldives, Male'.
UNEP 2005, Maldives: Post-Tsunami Environmental Assessment, United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).
Prepared by: CDE Consulting Page|116 EIA for the proposed construction of east entrance channel at Kaashidhoo, Kaafu Atoll
Water Solutions, 2013, EIA for the Reclamation at Guriadhoo Island, Kaafu Atoll, Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure, Male’, Maldives
WB, ADB & UN 2005, Maldives Tsunami: Impact and Recovery. Joint Needs Assessement by World Bank-ADB_UN System, World Bank (WB), Asian Development Bank (ADB) and United Nations (UN) Systems, Male', Maldives.
Webb, AP & Kench, PS 2010, 'The dynamic response of reef islands to sea level rise: Evidence from mutli-decadal analysis of island change in the Central Pacific', Global and Planetary Change, vol. 72, pp. 234-64.
Woodroffe, CD 1993, 'Morphology and Evolution of Reef Islands in the Maldives', Proceedings of the Seventh International Coral Reef Symposium, vol. 2, pp. 1217-26.
Woodroffe, CD 2002, Coasts: Form, Process and Evolution, Cambridge University Press.
Yan, J, Shaig, A & Aslam, M 2008a, Detailed Island Risk Assessment in Maldives: Volume III: detailed Island Reports Dh. Kudahuvadhoo - Part 1, Department of National Planning, Male', Maldives.
Yan, J, Shaig, A & Aslam, M 2008b, Natural Hazard and Physical Vulnerability Assessment Report, Ministry of Planning and National Development (MPND), United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Male', Maldives
Young, IR 1999, 'Seasonal variability of the global ocean wind and wave climate', International Journal of Climatology, vol. 19, no. 9, pp. 931–50.
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APPENDIX A – Terms of Reference
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No: 20lEIARES/1 3812017 I 168 Draft Terms of Reference for to the Environmental lmpact Assessment of the proposed reef entrance channel in Kaashidhoo lsland, Kaafu Atoll
The folfowing is the Terms of Referenc€ (ToR) following th€ scoping me€ting held on 2P September 2017 for for the propos€d reef entrance in Kaashidhoo lsland, Keafu Atoll. The Propon€nt of the Project is Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure.
While every aftempt has been made to ensure that this ToR addresses all of the major issues associared with development proposal, they are not necessarily exhaustive. They should not be interpreted as excluding liom consideration matters deemed to be significant but not incorporated in them, or matters currently unfoieseen, that emerge as important or significant from environmental studies, or otherwise, during rhe course of preparation ofthe EIA repon.
l fnfroduction and rationale - Describe the purpose of the project and, if applicable, the background information of the projecVactivity and the tasks already completed. Objectives of the development aciivities should be specific and if possible quantified. Define the arangements required for the environmental assessment including how work canied out under this contract is linked to other activities that are carried out or thar ls being carried out within the project boundary. Identiry the donors and the institutional arrangements relevant ro rhis project.
StudY area - Submit a minimum ,{3 size scaled plan with indications of all the proposed infrastructures. Speciry the agreed boundaries of the study area for the environmental impact assissment highlighting the proposed development location and size. The study area should include a jacent or remote areas, suin as relevant developments and nearby environmenmlly sensitiv€ sites (e.g. coral reef, sea grass, mangroves, marine protected areas, special birds site, sensitive species nursery and feeding grounds).
ScoD€ qf work - Identiry and number tasks of the project including preparation, construction and decommissioning phases.
Task l. Lit€raaur€ review: ' Identiry the exiting literatue regarding the vulnerability and the condition of the K.Kaashidhoo's house reef. o Review similar ElAs, EMPs, and other research carried our for K.Kaashidhoo. . The consultant shall repon all the findings in a summarised form. ' The consultant shall also explain the mitigation measures proposed for any potential impacs Aom proposed project related to the vulnerabitity discussed in the literature.
Task 2. D€scription of the proposed project - Provide a full description and justification of the relevant pans of the proposed works, using maps at appropriate scales where necessary. The following should be provided (all inputs and ourputs related to the proposed activities shall bejustified): The rnain activities ofthe project are: . Dredging a reefentrance e Dredge waste disposal . Environmentalmonitoringduringconstructionactivities; . Project management (include scheduling and durarion of the project and life span of facilities; communication of construction details, progress, target dates, access to site, safety, equipment and material storage, fuel management and emergency plan in case ofspills)
Green Buildrn& 3'' Floor, H.ndhu!areeHrntun
Male, 8ep of Maldiver, 20392 Tel: I+9601 333 s949 {+960j 333 s9s1 Enailr secretariat@epa tov mv Fax: l+9601 333 s953 webere: www,epa tov.mv u'?.
Pt,d- t,P'?rJ rer2t trr, Envionme ntal Protection Agency EPA
Dredsins: . Design details ofthe reefentrance . Location and size of reef entrance (s) on a map; . Justification for the selection ofthis location and design; . Method and equipment used for dredging, including description of positioning system, depth control system and oPerational control Procedures; . Justification for selecting the methods and equipment; . Duration ofdredging activity; o Labour requirements and (local) labour availabiliry; . Housing of temporary labour, and . Emergency plan in case ofspills (diesel, grease, oil)
Dredge waste disoosal: . Location and size ofdisposal area(s) on a map; . Justification for the selection of this location; . Quantity, quality and chardcteristics offill material required; o Method and equipment used for levelling and profiling; e Justification for selecting the methods and equipment; r Erosion mitigation options
present the environmental Task 3. Description of the environment - Assemble, evaluate and -baseline study/data regarding the study area and timing of the project (e.g. monsoon season). Identiry baseline data gaps and identi| studies and the leyel of detail to be carried out by consultant. Consideration of likelv monitoring
baseline. As such all baseline data must be Plesented in such a way that they will be usefully aPplied to futtu.e *ltoring. The report should outline detailed methodology of data collection utilized. Reference should be made to the original EIA in presenting the findings for this task.
All data must be collected as per the requirements of the EPA Data Collection Guidelines (published on www.epa.gov.mv). The report should outline detailed methodology of the data collection utilized.
The baseline data will be collected before construction and from at least two benchmarks. All survey locations shall be referenced with Geographic Positioning System (GPS) including water sampling poinls, reef transects' and vegetation transects for posterior data comparison. Information should be divided into the categories shown below:
Climate o Temperature, rainfall, wind, waves, evaporation rates (including extreme conditions) o Risk ofhurricanes and storm surges; Geologv and geomomhology . Offshore/coastal geology and geomorphology (use maps); . Bathymetry Oottom morphology) ofthe proposed dredge areas (use maps); . Seasonal and Historical patterns of coastal erosion and accretion on Kaashidhoo Island, and r Characteristics of seabed sediments to assess direct habitat destruction and turbidity impacts during dredging works;
Hvdrographv,4rvdrodynam ics (use maos) . Tidal ranges and tidal cwrents; . Wave climate and wave induced currents; r Wind induced (seasonal) currents; . Seawater qualiry measuring: temperanfe, pH, nitrate, phosphate, turbidity and Total Suspended Solids
Green Buildin& 3" Floor, Handhuvar€eHintun
Male, Aep of Ma ldrver, 20392 tmail sectetanat@epa tov mv rer- l+9601 333 5949 l+9501 333 s9s1 w€bsrt€: ww €Pa Eov mv Fax: t+9501 333 s953 uy
PI-C- .-'byerJ re-2t rt-- Environmental Protection,+g"n"y fpfl
Ecoloev o ldentiry marine protected areas (MPAS) and sensitive sites such as breeding or mfsery grounds for protected or endangered species (e.g. coral reefs, spawning fish sites, nurseries for crustaceans or specific sites for marine mammals, sharks and turtles). Include description of commercial specres, species with potential to become nuisances or vector. o Benthic and fish community monitoring around the island; o Landscape integity, and
Absence of facilities in the country to carry out the water quality tests will not exempt the proponent from the obligadon to provide necessary data. The report should outline the detailed methodology of data collection utilized to describ€ the existing environmenr.
Task 4. Legislative and regulatory considerations - Identifr the pertinent legislation, regulations and standarG, and environmental policies that are relevant and applicable to the proposed project, and identiry the appropriate authority j urisdictions that will specifically apply to the project.
Task 5. Potential impacts (environmental snd socio-cultural) of proposed project, incl. all stages The EIA report should identiS all the impacts, dhect and indirect, during and after construction, and evaluate the magnitude and significance of each. Particular anention shall be given to impacts associated with the following: Impacts on the natural envLonment o Changes in flow velocities/directions, resulting in changes in erosion/sedimentation pattems, which may impact shore zone configuration/coastal morphology; . Loss of marine bottom habitat, both in the dredge area, resulting in (temporary) loss of bonom life, which may impact fish stocks and species divemity and density of crabs, shellfish etc.; . Sediment dispersal in water column (tubidity at the dredging site (overflow), and disposal site), possibly resulting in changes in visibility, smothering of coral reefs and benthic communities and affecting fish and shellfish etc.; . Impacts ofnoise disturbance; . Impacts on unique or theatened habitats or species (coral reefs, sea tunles etc.), and . lmpacts on landscape integrity/scenery.
Construction related hazards ald risks o Pollution ofthe natural environment (e.9. oil spills, discharge of untreated waste water and solid waste, including construction waste); . Risk ofaccidents and pollution on workers and local population, and . Impacts on social values, norms and belief due to presence of workers of dredging company on local population.
The methods used to identii/ the significance of the impacts shall be outlined. One or more of the following methods must be utilized in determining impacts; checklists, matices, overlays, networks, expert systems and professional judgment. Justification must be provided to the selected metbodologies. The repon should outline the uncertainties in impact prediction and also outline all positive and negative/short and long-term impacts. Identi$/ impacts that are cumulative and unavoidable.
Task 6. Alternatives to proposed project - Describe altematives including the 'no dction oprion " should be presented. Determine the best practical environmental options. Altematives examined for the proposed project that would achieve the same objective including the "no action altemative". This should include but ' not limited n altemative borrow sites, altemative equipmenVmachinery for dredging, alternative disposal sites and alternative containment measures. The report should highlight how the dredging and reclamation location was determined. All alternatives must be comDared according to intemational standards and commonly accepted standarG as much as possible. The comparison should yield the prefened ahernative for implementation. Mitigation options should be specified for each component ofthe proposed project.
Green Buildin& 3'd Floor, H.ndhuvareeHintun
Male, Rep of Maldives,20392
Tel: [19601 333 5949 l+960] 333 s9s1 recreta''at@epa 6ov.mv
Fat: [+9501333 s953 il''/
P. e''. P' e./t 2 e, 2,.,'2a Environmental Protection Agency EPA
Task 7. Mitigation and management of negstive imprcts -. Identiry possible measures to prevent or reduce significant negative impacts to acceptable levels. These will include both environmental and socio- economic mitigation measues with particular attention paid to sedimentation control and future changes in coastal processes. Mitigation measures to avoid or compensate habitat destruction caused by dredging will have to be considered, e.g. temporal sediment control structures, coastal protection structures to reduce erosion, coral reconstruction and MPA replacement areas, Measures for both construction and operation phase shall be identified. Cost the mitigation measures, equipment and resources requted to implement those measues. The confirmation of commitment of the developer to implement the proposed mitigation measures shall also be included. An Environmental management plan for the proposed project, identirying responsible persons, their duties and commitments shall also be given. In cases where impacts are unavoidable arrangements to compensate for the environmental effect shall be given.
Task E, Developmert of monitoring plan - IdentiS the critical issues requiring monitoring to enswe compliance to mitigation measures and present impact management and monitoring plan for coastal modificarion, beach morphology, sediment movement around the island. Ecological monitoring will be submitted to the EPA to evaluate the damages during construction, after project completion and every three months thereafter, up to one year and then on a yearly basis for five years after. The baseline study described in task 2 of section 2 ofthis document is required for data comparison. Detail ofthe monitoring program including the physical and biological parameters for monitoring, cost commitment from responsible person to conduct monitoring in the form of a commitment letter, detailed reporting scheduling, costs and methods ofundenaking the monitoring program must be provided. . Water quality, espscially turbidity; . Sedimentation rates on nearby coral reefs, benthic system and seagrass beds; . Condition ofthe sensitive ecosystems and marine resources; o Re-colonization of the benthic organisms in the borrow areas; . Erosion and accretion: . Environmentally sound site clearance; o Environmentally sound removal ofdredging and other equipment including consfiuction materials, and
Task 9. Stakeholder consultation, Inter-Agency coordination and public^Ico participation) - Identify appropriate mechanisms for providing information on the development proposal and its progress to all stakeholders, govemment authorities such as Environmental Protection Agency, lsland Council, government agencies, NGOs, ard members of the general public. Major stakeholder consultation shall include; o K. Kaashidhoo Island Council . Ministry ofHousing and Inftastructure (Planning Section) . Ceneral Public
Presentation- The environmental impact assessment report, to be presented in digital format, will be concise and focus on significant environmental issues. lt will contain the findings, conclusions and recommended acrions supported by summaries of the data collected and citations for any references used in interpreting those data. The environmental assessment report will be organized according to, but not necessarily limited by, the outline given in the Environmental lmpact Assessment Regulations, 2012.
@iThe must submit the completed EIA rePon within 6 months from the date ofthis Term of
Envtronmental Protecr@n Agency
Green 8uildin3, 3" Floor, HandhuvareeHintun
Male, Rep. or Mald,ves,20392
mv r€l: l+9601 333 s9a9 t+9601 33j s95r secrelanat@epa 8ov
Fax [+960] 333 s9s3 EIA for the proposed construction of east entrance channel at Kaashidhoo, Kaafu Atoll
APPENDIX B – Site Plan
Prepared by: CDE Consulting Page|119 73°27'30"E 73°27'40"E 73°27'50"E 73°28'0"E 73°28'10"E N " N " 0 0 2 ' 2 ' 8 8 5 ° 5 ° 4 4 Proposed Channel Dredging Area Legend Section A Site Area (sq m) Dredge Depth (m MSL) Volume (cbm) Length: 109 m A 38,230.00 - 3 .50 5 6,100.00 Temporary Sand bed Width: 30 - 60 m Dredge waste disposal Site Area (sq m) Elevation (m MSL) Volume (cbm) Groyne B 14,100.00 1 .50 2 8,000.00 C 5 ,636.00 6 .50 2 8,100.00 Stockpile O Total 5 6,100.00 ut er Note: Volume figures above are approximate values and Dredge Disposal Areas ree f l ine may be different when excavated Proposed channel N " N " 0 In 0 1
' n 1
e ' 8 r r 8 5 e Vegetation Line ° e 5
f ° 4 line 4 High Tide Line
Low Tide Line
Existing Dredged Areas
Deep Lagoon
Proposed Channel Low tide line Inner Reef Line A Section B High tide line
N Outer Reef Line N " Length: 1169 " 0
'
Vegetation line 0 '
8 ! ! 8
5
5 ° Width: 30 m ! ° 4 4
Containment bund ! Stockpile area
! (Area: 14,100 sq m µ (Lenght: 290)
N Elevation +5 m from ground level) " C N " 0 0 5 ' 5 ' 7 7 5 ° 5 °
4
4 ! B Reclamation Area (Area: 14,100 sq m Elevation +1.5 m MSL) Proposed Channel Section C Meters
Length: 183 m ! Width: 30 - 82.5 m Groyne 0 50 100 200 (length 60 m; Kaashidhoo Island Width at top 6 m) Kaashidhoo Island, Kaafu Atoll Eastern Channel Dredging Project N " N " 0 0 4 ' 4
' Dredging and Reclamation Plan 7 7 5 ° 5 ° 4 4 PROJECTION: Transverse Mercator Existing habour (UTM Zone 43 N); HORIZONTAL DATUM: WGS84; VERTICAL DATUM: Hulhule Tide Gauge Map version: 06/03/2018 Surveyed and Prepared by: CDE Consulting, Maldives 73°27'30"E 73°27'40"E 73°27'50"E 73°28'0"E 73°28'10"E 60 m 45 m
329,639.60 mE N 109 m 549,909.36 mN 329,610.64 mE 549,917.17 mN LEGEND :
PREVIOUS DREDGING AREA
EXTENDED DREDGING AREA 400 m
NAVIGATION LIGHT
STICKER POST
PROJECT :
1169 m
400 m PROPOSED ENTRANCE CHANNEL OF K.KAASHIDHOO
DRAWING TITLE :
REVISED DRAWING OF PROPOSED ENTRANCE CHANNEL OF K.KAASHIDHOO
30 m DRAWING NO :
329,335.09 mE KAA/REV/001 548,780.71 mN
183 m 147 m
329,332.65 mE 329,252.92 mE 548,591.83 mN 548,613.34 mN 61 m 82.5 m SENOK TRADE COMBINE(Pvt)LTD, NO 3, R.A.DE MEL MAVATHA, COLOMBO 5, SRI LANKA. EIA for the proposed construction of east entrance channel at Kaashidhoo, Kaafu Atoll
APPENDIX C – Water Quality Results
Prepared by: CDE Consulting Page|120
EIA for the proposed construction of east entrance channel at Kaashidhoo, Kaafu Atoll
APPENDIX D – Survey Locations Map
Prepared by: CDE Consulting Page|121 EIA for the proposed construction of east entrance channel at Kaashidhoo, Kaafu Atoll
APPENDIX E – Beach Profiles
Beach Profile 1
1.5 1 0.5 0 0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40
Depth Depth (m) -0.5 -1 -1.5 Distance (m)
Profile 2
1.5
1
0.5
0
Depth (m) 0 10 20 30 40 50 -0.5
-1 Distance (m)
Beach Profile 3 1
0.5
0 0 5 10 15 20 25 Depth Depth (m) -0.5
-1 Distance (m)
Prepared by: CDE Consulting Page|122 EIA for the proposed construction of east entrance channel at Kaashidhoo, Kaafu Atoll
Beach Profile 4
1 0.8 0.6 0.4
0.2 Depth Depth (m) 0 0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 -0.2 -0.4 Distance (m)
Beach Profile 5
1.2 1 0.8 0.6 0.4 0.2
Depth (m) 0 -0.2 0 5 10 15 20 25 30 -0.4 -0.6 Distance (m)
Prepared by: CDE Consulting Page|123 EIA for the proposed construction of east entrance channel at Kaashidhoo, Kaafu Atoll
APPENDIX F – Bathymetry Chart
Prepared by: CDE Consulting Page|124 N " 73°27'30"E 73°27'40"E 73°27'50"E 73°28'0"E 73°28'10"E N " 0 0 2 ' 2 ' 8 8 5 ° 5 ° 4 4
- Legend -20 45 Bathy Points -5 - - 40 4 Contour 1m - 10 - 30 bathyv3 -2.5 -2.5 - 3
-0.4 - 1.5
-2 -0.9 - -0.5 N " N
" -1.4 - -1.0 0 0 1
' -2 1 ' 8 8 5 ° 5
- ° 4 1 -1.9 - -1.5 .5 4
-2.9 - -2.0
-3.9 - -3.0
-2 -4.9 - -4.0
-2 -9.9 - -5.0 .5
2 - - -19.9 - -10.0 2. 5 .5 -1 -29.9 - -20.0
- 2 Low tide line High tide line -39.9 - -30.0 N " N " 0
' -
0
' -49.2 - -40.0
8 2 ! 8 5 ° 5 ° 4
Vegetation line 4
! -49.3 ! Vegetation Line -2 - 2 High Tide Line
- 1 .5 Low Tide Line
-0.7 Existing Dredged Areas
- - -0.5 1.5 1 -0.5 .5 Deep Lagoon -0.7 -0.5 -0.7 0.2 Inner Reef Line -0.7 -0.4 -0.5 -0.4 Outer Reef Line N " N
-0.6 0.4 " 0 -1 -0.5 . 0 5 5 '
-0.6 5 ' 7 -0.5 7
5 µ ° -0.6 -0.5 0.2 5 ° 4 -0.5 -0.6 4 -0.5 -0.4 -0.7 1 - -0.5 -0.5 -0.3 - -0.5 1 -0.6-0.2 -0.4 -0.6 -0.6 -0.4 0.1 -0.4 -0.5 -0.6 0 1.5 -0.6 .5 - -1 -0.1
-
1 -3 -3 Kaashidhoo Island Meters -2 -2.5 -1.5 -2 N " -2 - N .5 3 " 0 -3 0 50 100 200 .5 0 4 ' 4 ' 7 7 5 ° 5 ° 4 4 Kaashidhoo Island, Kaafu Atoll Eastern Channel Dredging Project Bathymetry PROJECTION: Transverse Mercator (UTM Zone 43 N); HORIZONTAL DATUM: WGS84; VERTICAL DATUM: Hulhule Tide Gauge Map version: 28/02/2018 Surveyed and Prepared by: CDE Consulting, Maldives 73°27'30"E 73°27'40"E 73°27'50"E 73°28'0"E 73°28'10"E EIA for the proposed construction of east entrance channel at Kaashidhoo, Kaafu Atoll
APPENDIX G – CV’s of Consultants
Prepared by: CDE Consulting Page|125 Ahmed Shaig Phone: (+960) 77 88 758 [email protected]
Personal Details Date of Birth: 19/02/1976 Nationality: Maldivian Gender: Male Marital Status: Married Permanent Address: Maldives Present Address: M. Muleege, Orchid Magu, Male’, Maldives.
Education PhD, Environmental Science, 2009 James Cook University, Townsville, Australia
Research degree on ‘Settlement Planning for Natural Hazard Resilience in Small Island States: The Population and Development Consolidation Approach’
BSc Land and Spatial Information Studies/Information Science. (double major), 1999-2001 University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
Diploma in project planning, implementation, monitoring and evaluation, 1995 ILO training Centre, Turin, Italy
Employment History
Director, Environmental Services 2008 to present CDE Consulting Supervisor: Dr. Simad Saeed Republic of Maldives Phone: +(960) 7777445 Head of environmental wing
Assistant Under-secretary, Spatial Planning 2002-2004 Ministry of Planning and National Development Supervisor: Hon. Hamdun Hameed Republic of Maldives Phone: +(960) 332-3919 Head of Spatial Planning Unit. Relevant Tasks include: ♦ Oversee environment related projects and application of environmental guidelines for planned projects. ♦ Plan, implement and oversee the development of a National GIS; ♦ Aid/facilitate/oversee urban planning, housing, land use planning, natural resource planning and environment related projects; Provide assistance in project planning (includes urban and regional planning, natural resources planning)
Project Manager, National Digital Mapping Project 2005 (8 months) Ministry of Planning and National Development Supervisor: Hon. Hamdun Hameed Republic of Maldives Phone: +(960) 332-3919 ♦ Project involved aerial photography and satellite imagery of entire Maldives, ground surveying of key settlements, digital conversion of data and setting up a Mapping Unit.
Assistant Planning Officer/Planning Officer 1994-1999 Ministry of Planning and National Development Supervisor: Mr. Mohamed Hunaif Republic of Maldives Phone +(960) 331-3040 Relevant tasks involved: ♦ Assisting in the National GIS Development Programme (Junior GIS developer) ♦ Facilitate urban planning, housing, land use planning, natural resource planning and environment related projects.
Ahmed Shaig page 1
Experience in Consultancy
. September 2002: Member of the team appointed for environmental surveying and carrying capacity assessment of islands for tourism development in the southern atolls of Maldives for Ministry of Tourism Maldives. . October 2002: Developed the Census GIS for United National Population Fund . December 2002: Developed the Maldives Protected Areas Systems GIS for Maldives Home Affairs Housing and Environment. . February 2003: Participated in the preparation of Royal Island and Spa Resort Annual Environmental Monitoring Report for Royal Island and Spa. . April 2003: Member of the team selected for developing town plans for urban centres in Northern and Southern Regional Development Zones, looking specifically into environmental control measures, for Ministry of Planning and National Development. . April 2003: Participated in the preparation of Environmental Impact Statement for Coastal Modifications on Rihiveli, South Malé Atoll, Maldives. . April 2003: Participated in the surveying and preparation of Environmental Impact Statement for the proposed coastal improvements to address coastal erosion concerns on Royal Island Spa Resort, Baa Atoll, Maldives. . May 2003: Participated in the bathymetry survey and preparation of Initial Environmental Examination for Deepening of Existing Entrance Channel to Service Jetty, Soneva Gili Resort and Spa, North Malé Atoll, Maldives . May 2003: Participated in the preparation of Initial Environmental Examination for development of an access channel into the natural inner lagoon (Vilu) of Mayafushi resort, North Ari Atoll. . May 2003: Participated in the preparation of Environmental Impact Assessment for Landaa Giraavaru Pvt. Ltd. for the development of a Four Season’s Tourist Resort on the island of Landaa Giraavaru in Baa Atoll, Maldives. . June 2003: Participated in survey and preparation of Initial Environmental Examination for the Development of a Mooring Area and Associated Beach Replenishment in, Boduhithi Club, North Malé Atoll, Maldives. . July 2003: Participated in the surveying and preparation of Initial Environmental Examination for Short- term and Long-term Shore Protection Measures at Alimatha Tourist Resort, Vaavu Atoll, Maldives. . July 2003: Conducted shoreline and vegetation line of Alimatha Tourist Resort, Vaavu Atoll, Maldives. . July 2003: Participated in the surveying for Initial Environmental Examination for Short-term and Long- term Shore Protection Measures at Dhiggiri Tourist Resort, Vaavu Atoll, Maldives. . July 2003: Participated in conducting and preparation of Fun Island Resort Annual Environmental Monitoring Report. . July 2003: Participated in conducting and preparation of Sun Island Resort Annual Environmental Monitoring Report. . July 2003: Participated in conducting and preparation of Holiday Island Resort Annual Environmental Monitoring Report. . August 2003: Developed the Initial Environmental Examination for the construction of Sun Decks along the southern beach of Kudarah Island Resort. . September 2003: Participated in surveying and preparation of Fonaddoo Environmental Impact Assessment Report for the development of fisheries complex, Fonaddoo, Maldives. . October 2003: Participated in surveying and preparation of Kuda Rah Erosion Study and recommendations for shore protection and erosion prevention . November 2003: Conducted vegetation and shoreline survey of Dhonveli Beach and Spa and Four Seasons Report for the Boundary Delineation between the two islands. . December 2003: Contributed to the Landuse Planning Guidelines of Maldives (environmental aspects) for Ministry of Housing and Urban Development. . December 2003: Contributed to the Development of a Building Code of Maldives for Ministry of Housing and Urban Development. . January 2004: Co-author to the Environmental Guidelines for the Development of Resort Islands in Maldives, Ministry of Tourism. . February 2004: Developed the Baa Atoll Spatial Development Plan for Ministry of Planning and National Development.
Ahmed Shaig page 2
. April-July 2004: Participated in the preparation of the Environmental aspects of the 8 bid proposals for resort Development for various proponents. . November 2005: Participated in the preparation of EIA for L.Gan Resettlement Project for Ministry of Housing. . December 2005: Participated in the surveying and preparation of EIA for Gn Fuvahmulaku Tourist Hotel Development . November 2005: Developed a GIS for strategic planning to select islands for tourism development for Ministry of Tourism. . January 2006: Local consultant for the Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) of Maldives Regional Development Plan, for AGRIFOR Consult Consortium, Belgium. . June 2006: Developed the Baa Atoll Resource Management GIS for Ministry of Environment and Energy. . August 2006: Consultant to the Integrated Climate Change System (ICCS) project – Assessment of vulnerability of Maldives Islands and Beaches to climate change . September 2006: Consultant to the ICCS project – Assessment of vulnerability of Maldives Infrastructure to climate change . November 2006: Consultant to the preparation of National Adaptation Programme of Action in Maldives for Ministry of Environment. . December 2006: Environmental Consultant to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Project: Disaster Risk Assessment of Selected nine Safe Islands in Maldives. . April 2007: Prepared the Coastal Erosion Assessment and Management Report for Ga.Meradhoo Island. . May 2007: Participated in the preparation of EIA for N. Randheli Resort Development Project, I&T Management group. . June 2007: Participated in the preparation of Millennium Development Goals, Maldives Country Report. . October 2007: Natural Hazard Assessment consultant to the UNDP Project: Disaster Risk Assessment of Selected Safe Islands in Maldives. . November 2007: Prepared the EIA for proposed coastal protection, beach replenishment and access improvement of Elaa, Thaa Atoll, for Mr Abbas Mohamed, H. Merry Rose. . May 2009: Participated in the preparation of EIA for sand sourcing and beach replenishment project of Viligilli Island, Addu Atoll, for Shangri-La at Viligilli.. . April 2009: Participated in the preparation of EIA for N. Maafaru Airport Development Project for Noonu Hotels Pvt Ltd. . May 2009: Participated in the preparation of EIA for resort development in Huvandhumaavattaru, Noonu Atoll . June 2009: Prepared a status of the environment report Randheli Island, Noonu Atoll. . July 2009: Prepared the Environmental EIA for harbour development in Fiyoari, Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll. . July 2009: Participated in the preparation of EIA for Jetty and arrival lounge development project in Gan, Addu Atoll, for Island Aviation Services Private Limited. . July 2009: Team Leader for the socio-economic risk assessment of Selected Safe Islands in Maldives. . August 2009: Coastal erosion data synthesis for selected islands of Maldives, for World Bank Maldives Environmental Management Project. . September 2009: Prepared the beach management plan and development control measures for Reethibeach Island Resort, Baa Atoll. . September 2009: Participated in the preparation of EIA for agricultural island development in Felivaru, Noonu Atoll, for Fantasy Private Limited. . September 2009: Consultant to review the safer islands programme and cost benefit study of mitigation measures in three islands in the Maldives for UNDP. . October 2009: Consultant to the Maldives Environmental Management Project for waste management technical assistance for World Bank. . December 2009: Environmental consultant for advising on resort development and development control measures in Randheli Island, Noonu Atoll. . January 2010: Prepared the beach management plan and development control measures for Shangri-La Island Resort, Addu Atoll. . January 2010: Consultant to the Atoll Ecosystem Conservation project conservation component defining conservation areas and development controls. . February 2010: Prepared the environmental audit of Thunbafushi Island, Kaafu Atoll, for Champa Brothers Private Limited.
Ahmed Shaig page 3
. March 2010: Prepared the beach management plan and development control for Herathera Island Resort, Addu Atoll. . March 2010: Lead author in the preparation of EIA for power plant upgrading project in Palm Beach Island in Lhaviyani Atoll. . April 2010: Lead author in the preparation of EIA for Seagrass removal and beach replenishment project in Olhuveli Island Resort and Spa, Kaafu Atoll. . April 2010: Prepared an EIA addendum for resort development in Gaakoshibee Island, Shaviyani Atoll. . May 2010: Consultant to undertake island environmental scoping studies in 30 islands in North Maldives to determine islands with resort development potential for GMR Group of India. . May 2010: Lead author in the preparation of EIA for harbour development project in Madidhoo Island, Shaviyani Atoll. . June 2010: Lead author in the preparation of EIA for deep piling project in Olhuveli Island Resort and Spa, Kaafu Atoll. . July 2010: Lead author in the preparation of EIA for the development of an aquaculture site in Kanduoigiri, Kaafu Atoll. . July 2010: Environmental planning consultant for Shangri-La at Viligilli Maldives, Addu Atoll. . July 2010: Environmental planning consultant to the Addu Land Use Planning project (including defining development controls) in Addu Atoll Maldives for South Province Office. . August 2010: Environmental Consultant for the Atoll Ecosystem Conservation Project to declare Baa Atoll as a UNESCO Biosphere reserve. . September 2010: Lead author in the EIA for Seagrass removal and beach replenishment project in Herathera Island, Addu Atoll. . September 2010: Lead author in the EIA for resort redevelopment in Vilamendhoo Island Resort, Ari Atoll. . September 2010: Lead author in the preparation of EIA for Gulhifalhu land reclamation project in Gulhifalhu, Male’ Atoll, for Capital Investment and Finance Limited, UK. . September 2010: Participated in the preparation of EIA for sewerage system development project in Miladhoo, Noonu Atoll. . October 2010: Consultant to undertake the coastal adaptation survey of 40 islands in Maldives for Ministry of Housing and Environment. . November 2010: Environmental consultant for advising on resort development and development control measures in Maamigili Island, Raa Atoll . January 2011: Lead author in the preparation of EIA for sewerage and water system development project in Hithadhoo Island, Addu City for Bi-water International Private Limited. . February 2011: Lead author in the preparation of EIA for sewerage and water system development project in Maradhoo Island, Addu City for Bi-water International Private Limited. . March 2011: Lead author in the preparation of EIA for sewerage and water system development project in Feydhoo Island, Addu City for Bi-water International Private Limited. . April 2011: Lead author in the preparation of EIA for sewerage and water system development project in Maradhoo-Feydhoo Island, Addu City for Bi-water International Private Limited. . May 2012: Coastal erosion mitigation assessment and planning for Six Senses Laamu, Laamu Atoll . January 2012: Lead author in the preparation of EIA for sewerage and water system development project in Fuvahmulah Island, Addu City for Bi-water International Private Limited. . February 2012: Coastal erosion mitigation assessment and planning for Fushivelavaru Island . March 2012: EIA for the proposed resort redevelopment project in Conrad Rangali Island for Champa and Crown Resorts . March 2012: EIA for the proposed resort redevelopment project in Gasfinolhu Island Resort, Champa and Crown Resorts . May 2012: Environmental consultant for advising on resort development and development control measures in Gasfinolhu Island, Male’ Atoll . June 2012: Environmental consultant for advising on resort development and development control measures in Nakachchaa Huraa Island, Male’ Atoll . April 2012: Member of the consultant team that prepared the Tourism Opinion and Profile Survey 2011, Ministry of Tourism. . October 2012: Environmental consultant to the preparation of 4th Tourism Master plan for Ministry of Tourism, Maldives. . November 2013: Environmental consultant for advising on land reclamation, resort development and development control measures in Dhiffushi Island Reef, Male’ Atoll.
Ahmed Shaig page 4 . January 2013: Environmental consultant for advising on resort development and development control measures in Hankede Island, Addu Atoll . January 2013: Environmental consultant for advising on resort development and development control measures in Hankede Island, Addu Atoll June 2013: Local Environment consultant to the WCCM project, HIDRIA and Aquatica, Spain. . June 2015: Environmental consultant for Nasandhura Palace Hotel Redevelopment EIA, 15-storey building, Male'City . June 2015: Environmental consultant for Male-Hulhule Bridge, Borehole Drilling EIA, Male' City . July 2015: Environmental consultant for Male-Hulhule Bridge EIA, Male' City . September 2015: Environmental consultant for Development of Tertiary Hospital in Hulhumale . July 2015: Environmental consultant for Development of 9-Storey Building for ADK, Male'City
Ahmed Shaig page 5
Membership of Professional Bodies . Member of Building Code Committee, Maldives . Member of Commission on Sustainable development . Member of the Technical Committee for Developing Spatial Plans for conducting tourism related activities in Ari Atoll. . Member of Climate Advisory Council to the President of Maldives 2009- to present. . Registered EIA Consultant in Maldives Environment Protection Agency roster.
Major Publications
SHAIG, A. (2001) "An Overview of Web Based Geographic Information Systems". In Proceedings: Thirteenth Annual Colloquium of the Spatial Information Research Centre. P.A. Whigham (ed). 2 - 5 Dec, Dunedin, New Zealand. University of Otago, pp.255-264.
SHAIG, A. (2006). Climate Change Vulnerability and Adaptation Assessment of the Coastal Infrastructure of Maldives. Technical Paper submitted to Maldives National Adaptation Plan of Action for Climate Change. Ministry of Environment, Energy and Water, Male', Maldives.
SHAIG, A. (2006). Climate Change Vulnerability and Adaptation Assessment of the Land and Beaches of Maldives. Technical Paper submitted to Maldives National Adaptation Plan of Action for Climate Change. Ministry of Environment, Energy and Water, Male', Maldives.
SHAIG, A. (2007) Land Study of Maldives, 2006. Ministry of Planning and National Development, Male’ Maldives.
SHAIG, A. and Aslam, M (2007) Detailed Island Risk Assessment Maldives Volume I to Volume IV – Natural Hazard Assessment (Final Draft). UNDP, Male’ Maldives
SHAIG, A. (2007) Detailed Island Risk Assessment Maldives Volume I to Volume IV – Environmental Vulnerability Assessment (Final Draft). UNDP, Male’ Maldives.
Academic Achievements
2001 Critchlow Associates Prize in Surveying, New Zealand. Prize awarded annually by University council for the highest standard of Achievement in Spatial Information Studies in University of Otago. 1994 Certificate for best results in General Certificate of Examinations, Advanced Level. Science Education Centre, Male’, Maldives
References
Hamdun Hameed David King, Dr. Member of Parliament Associate Proffessor Male’, Maldives James Cook University Tel: (+960) 3323414 Townsville, QLD,Australia, 4811 [email protected] Tel: (+61) 747 81 4441 ,Fax: (+61) 747 81 5581 Email: [email protected] Simad Saeed, Dr Managing Director, Peter Valentine CDE Consulting Head of School, TESAG Department Male’, Maldives James Cook University Tel: +960 777 7445 Townsville, QLD,Australia, 4811 Email: [email protected] Tel: (+61) 747 81 4441 ,Fax: (+61) 747 81 5581 Email: [email protected]
Ahmed Shaig page 6
Clarification
I, the undersigned, certify that to the best of my knowledge and belief, this CV correctly describes myself, my qualifications and my experience. I understand that any willful misstatement described herein may lead to my disqualification or dismissal, if engaged.
Signature Date: 15 July 2013
Ahmed Shaig page 7
AISHATH HUMA ADDRESS: M.GASEEM TEL: +960 7945545 EMAIL: [email protected]
EDUCATION
February 2010- Bachelor of Science (Majoring in Environmental Biology and Coastal Zone November 2012 Management) from Curtin University of Technology, Perth, Western Australia
IELTS Listening:9.0 Reading:9.0 Writing- 8.0 Speaking – 8.5 Overall: 8.5
PROFSSIONAL EXPERIENCE
2013 till date Environment Analyst in Coastal Protection Unit, at Ministry of Environment and Energy
. Major responsibilities include designing and managing multiple Public Sector Investment Program Projects targeted towards coastal zone management and protection . Currently have worked on 16 different coastal protection projects with a total value of MVR 290,708,692 . Handling all coastal protection and management related activities in the Ministry of Environment and Energy, including coordinating with the government institutions, private and public sectors regarding all issues and activities associated with the coast . Formulating coastal protection project proposals targeted to procure financial resources from donors o Successfully secured funding for implementation of a coastal protection project at Gn.Fuvahmulah, through The Facility for Infrastructure Development (ORIO, Netherlands) and Kuwait Fund for Arabic Economic Development . Surveying and assessment of islands with erosion and formulating remedial measures based on the surveys . Collecting and maintaining statistics of islands reporting erosion and flooding instances
March 2016 – Second Secretary at the Permanent Mission of the Maldives to the United December 2016 Nations, New York, United States of America . Aiding the Mission to conduct its organizational and administrative work as the Chair of Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS) . Undertook responsibilities of all aspects of the Disarmament and International Security (First Committee) during the 71st Session of the United Nations General Assembly. This included making summaries and analyzing all the resolutions presented in this Committee and making recommendations to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs at Male’ on the actions to be taken on these resolutions in the General Assembly. . Contributed to the UN General Assembly Report prepared by the Maldives Mission by writing the chapter on the proceedings of the First Committee and our engagement in the process.
December 2013- Environment Analyst, Waste Management Unit, at Ministry of Environment and August 2014 Energy
. Managed Waste Management Public Sector Investment Program Projects . Coordinated with the government, private and public sectors regarding all issues related to waste management. . Collected information on waste management practices and issues faced by the island communities and update and maintain the database. . Development of regional and local waste management proposals to secure financing for waste management projects, namely OFID proposal for the Regional Waste Management Facility in Upper North Region.
July 2007 – Assistant Research Officer at Environmental Protection Agency February 2010 . Worked at the Environmental Impact Assessment Unit, implementing the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations 2007 . Coordinating with the project proponent, EIA consultant, other relevant stakeholder Ministries and local councils regarding the proposed development projects . Creating the Environmental Decision Statement by compiling reviews of the evaluators and issuing it to the project proponent . Conducting field monitoring of approved projects and preparing subsequent monitoring reports
PROGRAM SKILLS
. Microsoft Office Package . ARC GIS . Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) . Corel Draw
TRAININGS AND WORKSHOPS
. Completed ‘An introduction to data management and statistical analysis in R”, from 7-9th August 2017in Male’. . Fellow of the Alliance of Small Island States Fellowship Program, 2016, from March 2016 till December 2016 at New York, United States of America . Completed the ‘Negotiation and Influence’ by CM Partners, from 25th to 27th April 2016 at New York . Completed the Post Graduate Certificate Course on Integrated Coastal Zone Management, at Asian Institute of Technology, Thailand, from 8th June till 29th July 2015. . Attended ‘Training Program on Coastal and Nearshore Dynamics’ conducted by CSIR National Institute of Oceanography, organized by SAARC Coastal Zone Management Center, held in Goa, India, from 10th to 19th May 2015. . Completed the training workshop on Coastal Zone Issues and Impacts on Coastal Communities in Sri Lanka, from 23-27 February 2015. . Attended the workshop on ‘Capacity Building on Air Quality Management in South Asia’ in New Delhi, from 16-19 December 2014. . Completed the Workshop on FIDIC Contracts, 26th and27th November 2014 . Completed ESRI GIS training course modules 1 to 3 and Arc GIS for server, from 24 August 2014 to 4th September 2014. . Completed the Course on Environmental Protection and Management from Nanyung University, Singapore, from 30 July 2014 to 8 August 2014. . Attended the Climate and Clean Air Coalition to Reduce Short Lived Climate Pollutants Working Group Meeting in Paris, France on 16-17 July 2014. . Participated in the Capacity Building Workshop for Small Island Developing States to achieve Aichi Biodiversity Target 9 on Invasive Alien Species in Montreal, Canada, 14-15 June 2014. . Participated in the Capacity Building Programme on the Economics of Adaptation – Training on Cost-Benefit Analysis, 10-12 March 2014. . Attended the Coastal Zone Management in South Asia Conference at Pondichery, India from 19-21st January 2014. . Completed a short course on ‘GIS and Applications’ conducted by University of Peradinya at Kandy, Sri Lanka from 2nd to 7th December 2013. . Completed a short course on ‘Climate Change Adaptation Strategy for Small Island Developing States’, conducted by Japan-Singapore Partnership Programme, held in Singapore from 9th to 13th September 2013. . Participated in the SAARC Consultation Workshop on Implementation of Thimpu Statement on Climate Change Adaptation for South Asia in Varanasi, India from 29-31st August 2013. . Completed Project Management Training conducted by ADB and MAPS College, from 19th May to 30th May 2013. . Completed the International Training Course on Environmental Health Impact Assessment held in Bangkok, Thailand from 4th November to 4th December 2008. . Participated in Write it Right – Lobbying for Environment Stories in Media held in Calcutta, India in October 2007. . Completed the training course on Water and Waste Water Management in September 2007.
PUBLICATIONS AND REPORTS
. Co-Author and member of National Preparatory Process of the National SIDS Report 2014 (unpublished) . Contributor to monthly environmental newsletter, Pemphis, published by Ministry of Environment and Energy
REFERENCES
Mr. Abdulla Ziyad, Ms. Miruza Mohamed, State Minister Director,Environment Department, Ministry of Environment and Energy Ministry of Environment and Energy Contact Number : (+960) 7781502 Contact Number: (+960) 7774224 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]
Ms. Amelia Linn Fellowship Coordinator, Alliance of Small Island States Contact Number: +1 850 294 5590, Email: [email protected]
Bachelor of Science (Majoring in Environmental Biology and Coastal Zone Management)
Modules completed under Environmental Biology Major Animal Biology Cell Biology Quantitative Biology Animal and Plant Physiology Chemistry Ecology Mathematics Zoology Australian Flora Science Communications Plant Biology Algology and Mycology Sustainable Fisheries and Aquaculture Bio monitoring
Modules completed under Coastal Zone Management Major Climate Change and Adaptation Aquatic Environmental Management Coastal Processes and Management Environmental Impact Assessment Regional Planning Coastal Policy and Planning Aquatic Systems Coastal Science Coral Reef Systems Marine Habitat Mapping
Post Graduate Certificate (Aquaculture and Aquatic Resource Management, specializing in Integrated Coastal Management)
Modules completed Coastal and Marine Social Ecological Systems Guiding Principles of Integrated Coastal Management Tools and Strategies related to Coastal Management Coastal Project Design
Mohamed Faizan
Contact Details
Address: H. Pent Land, Lansimoo Goalhi, 20041 Male’, Maldives
Tel: +960-7501205
E-mail: [email protected]
Education
August 2012 – October 2014 University of Malaya, (Malaysia) - Master of Technology (Environmental management) - Dissertation title “Study on the impact of anthropogenic pressure on coral reefs around Cape Rachado, Malacca and recommendations to improve its management”
July 2006- June 2010 International Islamic University Malaysia, (Malaysia) - Bachelor of Biotechnology (Honours). - Final year thesis title “Spatio-temporal study on coastline changes along Tanjung Lumpur – Cherok Paloh Coast”.
June 2002 – June 2004 Centre for Higher Secondary School, (Maldives) - GCE Advanced level.
January 1997 – February 2002 Majeediyaa School, (Maldives) - GCE Ordinary level.
Employment History
July 2014 – Present CDE Consulting - Environmental Consultant at CDE Consulting. Roles and responsibilities include preparation of Environmental Impact Assessment reports, undertaking environmental baseline surveys, and conduct environmental monitoring.
June 2010 – July 2012 CDE Consulting - Environmental Consultant at CDE Consulting. Responsibilities included undertaking environmental baseline studies for Environmental Impact Assessments, and environmental monitoring. In addition, co-ordination of field surveys.
February 2005 – April 2006 Integrated Climate Change Strategy - Project Assistant for the Integrated Climate Change Strategy implemented by Ministry of Environment, Energy and Water (Maldives). - Responsibilities included assisting the project manager, in preparation of financial reports, organizing workshops. - Helped launch monthly newsletter on climate change “Nakaiy”.
EIA experience
Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Proponent Date
EIA for the proposed Malé-Hulhulé bridge Ministry of Housing and July 2015 - Undertook the marine baseline assessment surveys, Infrastructure and prepared marine assessment report
EIA for the proposed redevelopment of of Nasandhuraa Nasandhura Palace June 2015 Palace Hotel Hotel Investments - Undertook the marine baseline assessment surveys Private Limited
EIA for the proposed resort development in Shuaz Investment May 2015 Madivaru,Kaafu Atoll Private Limited - Undertook the marine baseline assessment surveys
EIA for the proposed Coral Reef rejuvenation project at Velaa Private Island March 2015 Velaa Private Island - Undertook the baseline assessment surveys, including stakeholder consultations. Complied the EIA report.
EIA for the proposed Coral Gardening at Shangri-La’s Shangri-La’s Villingili February 2015 Villingili Resort & Spa Resort & Spa - Undertook the baseline assessment surveys, including stakeholder consultations. Complied the EIA report.
EIA for the proposed sewerage system project at Male’ Water and April 2014 Kanditheem, Shaviyani Sewerage Company Pvt - Marine environment assessment and report for the Ltd EIA
EIA for the proposed beach replenishment project in Holiday Inn Resort April 2014 Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma, Maldives, South Male’ Kandooma Maldives Atoll - Marine environment assessment and report for the EIA
EIA report for the proposed sewerage system at Mr. Ibrahim Shazyl, February 2012 Maduvvari, Raa Atoll Venture Maldives Pvt - Undertook the baseline assessment surveys, Ltd including stakeholder consultations. Complied the EIA report.
EIA report for the proposed installation and operation of Mr. Ismail Shafeeu, January 2012 desalination plant at Hithaadhoo, Baa Atoll Static Company Pvt Ltd - EIA report compilation.
EIA report for the proposed Solid Waste Management Tatva Global Renewable December facility at Thilafushi Energy (Maldives) 2011 - Baseline marine assessments and EIA report Private Limited compilation.
EIA for the development of a domestic airport on Bonavvista (Maldives) October 2011 Koodoo, GA. Atoll Private Limited - Undertook baseline assessments for the EIA, and Singapore prepared the existing environment chapter for the EIA.
EIA prepared for the proposed harbor entrance channel Ministry of Housing and August 2011 dredging project in Bodufolhudhoo Island, North Ari Environment Atoll - Undertook the baseline assessments for the EIA, and prepared the existing environment chapter of the EIA and compiled the overall EIA report.
EIA prepared for the proposed re-development – phase I Mr. Hussain Afeef July 2011 of Gasfinolhu Island Resort, Kaafu Atoll, Maldives - Baseline marine assessments and report preparation for the EIA.
EIA prepared for the proposed re-construction of Ministry of Housing and March 2011 Shaviyani Foakaidhoo Harbour Environment - Undertook the marine baseline assessments and, prepared the marine assessment report for the EIA.
EIA for the sewerage system development in N. Miladhoo Works Corporation September - Marine environment assessments Limited 2010
Mohamed Ali
ID #: A 094918 Nationality: Maldivian Languages: English, Sinhalese, Dhivehi Date of Birth: 13/09/1983 Telephone: 960-790-6007 Email: [email protected]
Experience Marine Environmental Specialist June 2011- Present CDE Consulting
Marine Environment Officer July 2008 – May 2011 Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru
Freelance Lobster Hunter, Shark Fisherman Jan 2007 - July 2008 Laamu Atoll
Dock Assistant Sep 2006 - Jan 2007 Tourist Submarine Maldives
Education and Certifications PADI Rescue Diver June 2011 PADI Enriched Air Diver June 2011 Emergency First Responder May 2011
Basic Computer Science 2001 - 2006 Singapore Informatics, Colombo Sri Lanka
Profile I am very passionate about protecting the marine environment. After having worked as both a fisherman and a marine environment officer I am aware of the impact that human activity has on our fragile marine environment. My favorite activities are reef monitoring and planting coral gardens. With my undying passion for the underwater world and also with my vast experience diving all over the Maldives, educating people on the marine environment is my greatest mission, to ensure the preservation and protection of our most valuable treasure. Furthermore, I have got the opportunity to work besides the greatest marine experts in the world namely Prof. J.E.N. Veron,Dr. Norman Queen and Dr. Daphne G. Fautin.
References
N.D. Abdul Azeez Abdul Hakeem Former Director of Conservation Mobile: + 960 7784263 Banyan Tree Maldives
Dr. Steve Newman Former Marine Lab Manager at Banyan Tree [email protected]
Robert James Former Marine Lab Manager at Banyan Tree
AMINATH INAN ABDUL MUHSIN ……………………………………………………………………………...... CURRENT ADDRESS: Ma. Maaveyoge / 4th Floor, Male’ Maldives 20245 | PHONE: +9609807190. | EMAIL: [email protected] LinkedIn PROFILE: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aminath-inan-abdul-muhsin-90b42112a DATE OF BIRTH: 19 November 1990 Nationality: Maldivian
ACADEMIC QUALIFICATIONS ……………………………………………………………………………......
B SC – Bachelors of Science (Environmental Science) January 2012 – December 2014
University of Western Sydney / Sydney, Australia.
Majors General Biology, Conservation Biology, Zoology, Climate Change
Final Year Research Project Investigating carotenoid regulatory pathways using a suppressor mutant screen
Supervisor and academic referee Dr. Chris Cazzonelli, Senior Lecturer, Hawkesbury Institute of Environment
WORK EXPERIENCE ……………………………………………………………………………......
Sustainability Consultant
Commerce, Development and Environment Pvt Ltd September 2017 – Present Male’, Maldives
Roles and Responsibilities: Assessing the sustainability of new developments such as reclamation, harbor development, housing, water and sewerage projects that may impact the environment; Conducting field surveys and collecting data for Environmental Impact assessments, interpreting data, and report writing; Managing legislative issues for clients and maintaining an awareness of how legislation impacts projects; Maintaining effective communication with clients on a daily basis.
Project Officer
Tekton Designs Private Limited February 2017 – October 2017 Consultancy service for Maldives Integrated Tourism Development Corporation Male’, Maldives
Roles and Responsibilities: Providing administrative and logistic support to project management unit Evaluating the financial and technical proposals submitted by environmental impact assessment
1 consultancies to MITDC. Maintaining effective communication with regulatory agencies, contractor, EIA consultant, designers of the projects.
Structural Advisor and Consultant
Ministry of Environment and Energy April 2015 – January 2017
Roles and Responsibilities: Coordinating logistics and providing structural advice for Ministry of Environment and Energy in the efforts to declare Maldives as a National Biosphere Reserve before 2017 as per the International pledge made by the Maldivian government at Rio 20+ conference in 2012. Specific work
. Established and maintained external communications with other project partners (USAID Project REGENERATE, United Nations Development Project, Climate Change Adaptation Project, LecRED, Blue Marine Foundation, and Maldives National University), government agencies (Ministry of Tourism, Ministry of Fisheries and Agriculture, Marine Research Centre) engaged in project work and acting as the main focal point for Maldives as a Biosphere Reserve activity. . Collaborated with IUCN Marine Project REGENRATE to align government policies in REGENRATE work plan and complement the Biosphere goal. . Arranging and steering discussions and workshops with national and international stakeholders, inter-governmental dialogues between government agencies, ministerial discussions. . Planning and conducting information sessions and awareness and outreach for general awareness of the Biosphere reserve concept. . Drafted and coordinated in creating media communications designed to promote and inform the Biosphere Reserve concept. . Drafted effective press-releases, magazine articles. . Speak at relevant forums and TV programs relevant to Biosphere reserve Developed interactive digital material for executive presentations and reports to facilitate decision making . Defined clear targets and objectives for annual work plans and communicated them to Ministry for review and approval . Supervised and managed internships for the Maldives National University in data collation from Environmental Impact Assessments for the Biosphere Reserve. . Prepare grant proposals for the project . Handling all administrative work and logistics relevant to the biosphere reserve pledge. Part-time lecturer Maldives National University August – December 2016
Module: Biostatistics Roles: . Developed and delivered engaging lectures to undergraduate students 2 . Wrote course material such as homework assignments and handouts . Wrote, administered and graded midterm and final examinations
Part-time lecturer Mandhu College October 2015 – January 2016
Module: Social and Environmental Education Roles: . Coached students on public speaking and presentation skills . Developed and delivered engaging lectures to undergraduate students . Wrote course material such as homework assignments and handouts . Wrote, administered and graded midterm and final examinations
Administrative Officer Judicial Service Commission April 2010 – January 2012 Roles and Responsibilities:
. Manage administration tasks for committee meetings, including compiling agendas, preparing files, set up meeting calls, recording minutes and drafting correspondence based on meeting outcomes. . Focal point for Allied Insurance company and handled all the insurance claims of the staff . Keeping up-to-date the information of all the judges in Maldives . File organization and administrative support such as letter and circular drafting and circulation . Writing minutes for the Judicial service commission meetings. . Adding material to file records and created new record . Worked reception duties once every week which included responding to telephone and in-person requests for information, directing calls where appropriate and taking and delivering messages. . Receiving incoming documents, keeping file records, scanning filing and organizing documents.
TRAININGS ……………………………………………………………………………...... 1. Open Water Diver 2. Training of Trainers Turtle Watch 21st March 2016 Training by Marine Research Centre 3. Introduction to Sustainable Consumption and Production in Asia 2016 United Nations Institute for Training and Research UNITAR 4. IUCN Coral reef ecology apprenticeship 2015 Assisted the Korallian Lab Scientific officers in their research and conducted a pilot research project
3 REFEREES ……………………………………………………………………………......
PROFESSIONAL Mr. Abdulla Mohamed Didi Dr. Abdulla Naseer Former Deputy Minister Senior Policy Executive Ministry of Environment and Energy Environment Departyment Current Chairman Ministry of Environment and Energy Crowe Horwath Maldives Contact Number: +9607788197 Contact Number: +9607784181 Email: [email protected] [email protected]
ACADEMIC Dr. Chris Cazzonelli Senior Lecturer / Researcher Environmental Epigenetics Laboratory Hawkesbury Institute for Environment Contact number: +61245701752 Email: [email protected]
MEMBERSHIPS AND CONFERENCES ATTENDED ……………………………………………………………………………......
. Tourism Industry Forum – Speaker | Male’ 2016 . Maldives Marine Symposium – Official | Male’ 2016 . Laamu Climate Forum – Speaker –|Laamu Atoll 2015 . National Student’s Environmental Symposium – Ministry Representative | Male’ 2015 . AWMS – Australian Wildlife Management Society Annual – Participant | Brisbane 2014 . Cities of Future Earth – Participant | Canberra 2014 . Member of the Golden Key International Honour Society
ACHIEVEMENTS AND AWARDS ……………………………………………………………………………......
. Australian Development Scholarship Award -2012 . 6th place in National Top Ten - GCE O’ levels held in November 2006, 5 Distinctions.
LANGUAGES ……………………………………………………………………………......
Fluent in Dhivehi (Mother Tongue) Fluent in English (IELTS score: 7.5 ( 7 January 2017))
4 PERSONAL DETAILS
Name in Full : Ali Moosa Didi Date of Birth : 18.06.1985 Gender : Male Nationality : Maldivian Address: Permanent : Saraasaruge Aage, S.Hithadhoo Neelonfaru Magu
Present : Ma. Rose Villa SE, 4th Floor Dhevina Magu Male’
Telephone : +960 9912001
EDUCATIONAL QUALIFICATIONS
Madharasthul Islamiya School
Certification, University of Cambridge General Certification of Education O/L
Subject English Mathematics Business Account Commerce Economics
Secondary School Certificate Islamic Studies Dhivehi Language
WORK PLACE DETAILS
Commerce Development and Environment Pvt. H. Orchidmaage, 4th Floor Ameeru Ahmed Magu, Male’, Republic of Maldives Telephone: + 960 3312514 Fax: + 960 3315926 E-mail: [email protected]
Page 1 of 3
EMPLOYMENT RECORD
January 2004 – December 2008 Commerce Development & Environment Pvt
Assistant Surveyor January 2009 – December 2009 Ryco Investment Pvt HR. Officer
January 2010 – To Current Date Commerce Development & Environment Pvt Surveyor
WORK EXPERIENCE
Assistant Surveying Officer (Sep 2008 – To Current Date) -Survey proposed areas for the new projects under the instruction of survey officer.
-Determine precise location and measurements of points, elevations, lines, areas, contours for the construction studying the morphology of the seabed mapmaking and for construction staking, defining and managing parcels data, as‐built and profiling.
-Utilize recourses to the optimum level.
-Use company civil/ survey software for contouring, setting alignments, setting points construction, land division.
‐Edits and troubleshoot incoming data collector files in accordance with company procedures.
Processing Survey Data’s Using Topcon Tools, Surfer, Sonar XP, etc
-Reviews and utilize survey crew field notes. -Imports verified data into the appropriate CAD drawing file, using company standards point layer management and description keys.
-Prepares survey drawings and documents using company standards, prototypes, templates and blocks.
Page 2 of 3
-Operate digital cameras and download photo files into database and/ or CAD drawings.
‐Utilize company scanners to transfer reference maps into CAD files to facilitate utility mapping and property line.
-To perform bathymetric and topographical survey before start of the Projects
-Plotting survey data using AutoCAD 2006‐2009
-Processing Survey Data’s Using Topcon Tools, Surfer, Sonar XP, etc.
-Modeling accurate contours
-Advanced at ESRI ArcGIS (ArcMap, Arc Catalogue)
-GPS, wetland vegetation species identification, extensive geological identification skills
-Preparation of survey maps
-Make sure all the survey instruments are working in good condition.
Page 3 of 3
EIA for the proposed construction of east entrance channel at Kaashidhoo, Kaafu Atoll
APPENDIX H – Cutter Suction Dredger Information Sheet
Prepared by: CDE Consulting Page|126 IHC Beaver 300 C Cutter Suction Dredger
The IHC Beaver is well known for its robust Various components are mounted in or on the main construction, reliable operation and excellent pontoon, including the cutter ladder, the two ladder performance. To date, IHC Holland has supplied more actuator rams, control cabin, dredge pump, diesel than 600 of these standard cutter suction dredgers engines and auxiliary power units, discharge line worldwide. and the spuds with their actuator rams. The current range of standard, demountable cutter The cutter and swing winches, mounted on the suction dredgers consists of basic models, with power ladder, are powered by piston-type hydraulic motors. outputs ranging from 300 to 1,600 horse power. The IHC Beaver 300 is just one type from this range. The hull consists of three pontoons, one main pontoon housing the engine room, and two side pontoons. All parts are dimensioned to allow the IHC Beaver to be transported by road, rail or sea. The dredger is equipped with a rapid connection- disconnection system for the pontoons, achieved using bolts at deck level, and hooks at the bottom. Further salient features of the vessel are the compact dredge pump drive incorporating a reduction gear with integrated pump bearing and a fresh water engine cooling system, based on the well cooling principle. PU 25B-2 IHC Beaver 300 C Cutter Suction Dredger 4 4 4 4 ! " # "# ! " ./ " . ' ! ! $ %4 &' 4 ( ! $ %4 )' ! = *"4 ( = + 4 ' = 6 , $ " %4 8 = ; < = > > ; = > ? > - !! 4 ( < > = @@ - !! 4 & < > = F G = F . ! 4 / 0 " 4 ' > = ; ," ."" ! "" ! GJ F 6 " . ".! K = ! 6 8 N -" 1 $ ! % N > ," ! G" !! $ /% 8 = ;6 F 8G M 6 , # 1 P; Q @ N # # ; N 22 # " ! K" !3 L = 6 L 8 -" ! = M GJ @; K = ; 6 8 = @; < > = ; N P N Q= F R > P @ N Q= F R
Output calculated for: 250 - internal diameter of discharge line 250mm Soil type Decisive Situ density - maximum standard dredging depth Output calculated for: grain size - maximum volumetric concentration of in situ Soil type Decisive Situ density 200 3 solids of 20% A - fine sand grain100μm size 1,900kg/m 3 - final elevation at end of pipeline 4m AB -- finemedium sand sand 100μm235μm 1,900kg/m1,950kg/m3 3 150 BC -- mediumcoarse sand sand 235μm440μm 1,950kg/m2,000kg/m3 3 CD - - coarse coarse sand sand + gravel 440μm1.30mm 2,000kg/m2,100kg/m3 3 E - gravel 7.00mm 2,200kg/m3 100 D - coarse sand/gravel 1.30mm 2,100kg/m E - gravel 7.00mm 2,200kg/m3
50 per effective pumping hour A
Pump output in m³ of in of in m³ Pump output solids situ E D C B 0 0 1000 2000 3000 4000 Pipeline length in meters
IHC reserves the right to amend dimensional or other data given in this publication without prior notice Copyright 2005 IHC EIA for the proposed construction of east entrance channel at Kaashidhoo, Kaafu Atoll
APPENDIX I – Emergency Response Contingency Plan
Prepared by: CDE Consulting Page|127 Senok Trade Combine (Pvt) Ltd
CONSTRUCTION OF K.KAASHIDHOO ENTRANCE CHANNEL
SAFETY AND HEALTH
Prepared by SENOK TRADE COMBINE (PVT) LTD
CONSTRUCTION OF K.KAASHIDHOO 08/02/2018 ENTRANCE CHANNEL Senok Trade Combine (Pvt) Ltd
INTRODUCTION AND SITE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Documents in this series are designed to help employers, employees, health and safety committees and others that are essential to develop workplace health and safety programmes, prepare plans of action to prevent accidents or occupational diseases, and to conduct investigations as some of the many ways to meet and achieve good health and safety practices in the workplace further this document describes the health and safety guidelines developed for the Housing and Infrastructure Republic of Maldives, L. Fonadhoo Harbour Quay Wall Project, to protect on-site personnel, visitors, and the public from physical harm and exposure to hazardous materials or wastes. The procedures and guidelines contained herein were based upon the best available information at the time of the plan's preparation. Specific requirements will be revised when new information is received or conditions change.
Safety plan
All work practices and procedures that are implemented in the site must be designated to minimize worker to avoid or contact the possibility of physical injury or come into harm. All work will be performed in accordance with applicable health and safety regulations in Maldives.
Safety Meetings Daily safety meetings are held when commencing of each shift to ensure that all personnel to understand site conditions and operating procedures, to ensure that personal protective equipment is being used correctly and to address worker with health and safety concerns.
ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Site Engineer:
The Site Engineer who is field representative for Senok Trade Combine (Pvt) ltd has the complete responsibility for implementing the Site Health and Safety Plan (HASP). While managing the project he will ensure all health and safety requirements that should be met in day today work.
Quality & Safety Coordinator:
The Site Quality & Safety Coordinator is assigned to the site on a full-time basis with functional responsibility for assisting the Site Engineer with implementing the Health and Safety Plan.
Specific Duties Include:
• Assisting in providing a safe and healthy working environment. • Reporting and investigating all incidents. • Ensure proper decontamination of personnel and equipment are accomplished. • Ensure that air monitoring equipment is calibrated and operational. • Perform respirator fit tests, if necessary. • Inventory and inspect PPE prior to personnel entries into site. • Ensure proper personal protective equipment is being utilized. • Assisting in obtaining required personnel training and maintaining the medical records. • Inspect first aid kits and fire extinguishers regularly.
CONSTRUCTION OF K.KAASHIDHOO 08/02/2018 ENTRANCE CHANNEL Senok Trade Combine (Pvt) Ltd
Other:
Any persons who observe a health and safety hazard should immediately report observations/concerns to appropriate key personnel. Taking immediate steps to safe guard the injured personal according to the situation.
SITE CONTROL AND STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES
General Field Safety Rules
• All visitors must be sent to the security post. • Eating, drinking, or smoking are permitted only in designated areas in the site. • Safety Equipment (PPE) will be required and easy reach for all field personnel. • Personnel will only travel in vehicles where individual seats for each occupant are provided. • Seat belts will be worn as required. • Fire extinguishers will be available on site and in all areas with increased fire danger such as the refueling area. • A minimum of two personnel will always be on site whenever heavy equipment is operated. • Only necessary personnel need to be on or around heavy equipment. • Backhoes or other equipment with booms shall not be operated within 10 feet of any electrical conductor.
Personal Protective Equipment and Sign Boards All the officers, workers and visitors must use personal protecting equipment whenever they are in the site. They should be stores at the easy reach of people. All the people must wear safety helmets and safety boots inside the site. Workers who are dealing with gas arc welding cutting steel bars must wear a face shield, gloves and hearing protectors.
Safety sign boards will be used whole over the site for necessary places. The language used in the sign boards will be English as well as the local language enable them to be understood.
CONSTRUCTION OF K.KAASHIDHOO 08/02/2018 ENTRANCE CHANNEL Senok Trade Combine (Pvt) Ltd
EMERGENCY RESPONSE CONTINGENCY PLAN
Personnel Responsibilities
Site Engineer
As the administrator of the project, the SE has primary responsibility for responding to and correcting emergency situations by taking appropriate decisions. The SE will:
• Take appropriate measures to protect personnel including: withdrawal from Site, total evacuation and securing of the site or up-grading or down- grading the level of protective clothing and respiratory protection. • Take appropriate measures to protect the public and the environment including isolating and securing the site, • Ensure that appropriate local agencies are informed, and emergency response plans are coordinated. In the event of fire or explosion, the local fire department should be summoned immediately. • Ensure that all required reports have been prepared.
Medical Emergencies:
Any person who becomes ill or injured in the exclusion zone must be decontaminated to the maximum extent possible. If the injury or illness is minor, full decontamination should be completed and first aid administered prior to transport. If the patient's condition is serious, at least partial decontamination should be completed (i.e., complete disrobing of the victim and redressing in clean coveralls or wrapping in a blanket.) First aid should be administered while awaiting an ambulance or paramedics. All injuries and illnesses must immediately be reported to Quality and Safety Coordinator.
Any person transporting an injured/exposed person to a clinic or hospital for treatment should take with them directions to the hospital. Any vehicle used to transport injured personnel.
Fire
In the event of a fire or explosion, the local fire department should be summoned immediately. Upon their arrival the SE or designated alternate will advise the fire commander of the location, nature and identification of the hazardous materials on- site.
If it is safe to do so, site personnel may:
• Use firefighting equipment available on site. • Remove or isolate flammable or other hazardous materials which may contribute to the fire.
CONSTRUCTION OF K.KAASHIDHOO 08/02/2018 ENTRANCE CHANNEL Senok Trade Combine (Pvt) Ltd
Emergency Equipment Available On-Site
COMMIUNICATION EQUIPMENTS • Site Office Telephone
• Private Telephones
• Walkie talkie
• Emergency Alarms/Horns
MEDICAL EQUIPMENT • First Aid Kits
FIRE FIGHTING EQUIPMENT
CONSTRUCTION OF K.KAASHIDHOO 08/02/2018 ENTRANCE CHANNEL EIA for the proposed construction of east entrance channel at Kaashidhoo, Kaafu Atoll
APPENDIX J – Acknowledgement from Atoll Council
Prepared by: CDE Consulting Page|128
EIA for the proposed construction of east entrance channel at Kaashidhoo, Kaafu Atoll
APPENDIX K- Proponent Declaration and Commitment Letter
Prepared by: CDE Consulting Page|129 "tJ C " ~"'" ox #I" Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure a...... J ...... ~ ...,/ J'" ~t!~ ...... ? ,. .". "",. ~ ".;;. c Male', Republic of Maldives. ·eA"-:.?~ '/~,+
Economic Prosperity - Social Harmony
Date: 05 March 20 IS No: 13S-PIS I1203/20 IS/25
Mr. Ibrahim Naeem
Director General
Environmental Protection Agency,
Ministry of Environment and Energy,
Green Building, Male', Maldives.
RE: PROPONENT DECLARATION AND COMMITMENT TO EIA FOR EASTERN CHANNEL CONSTRUCTION AT KAASHIDHOO
Dear Sir,
As the proponent of the proposed project we guarantee that we have read the report and to the best of our knowledge, all information relevant to this project in terms of project description, project construction works and operational aspects provided here are accurate and complete.
As the Proponent of the project; we assure you our commitment to undertake the proposed mitigation measures and monitoring programme given in the report.
Thanking you
Sincerely,
Mohamed Azim,
Director General
Page i of! AmeeneeMagu, Maafannu, Male', 20392, Republicof Maldives.
® +(960)300 4 300 {,i';. +(960) 300 4 301 [email protected] ,~, www.housing.gov.mv www.iace(Jook.com/housing.gov.mv It' www.twitter.com/HousingGovMv