ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT

FOR THE PROPOSED

OUTER REEF MAINTENANCE DREDGING PROJECT

IN MAAFARU ISLAND, NOONU ATOLL

February 2018

Prepared for

Regional Airports, Ministry of Tourism, Maldives

Male’, Maldives

Consultant

CDE Consulting, Maldives

ްނިއުޢޫރްޝަމ ގުމުރުކާޅުފ ުރ ނ ުރޭބ ގުރަފާމ .ނ

ގްޓޯޕިރ ާރުކްނާޔަބ ުރަވްނިމ ނާރުކުރަސައ ްށަޓްއ ވާމިތ

8102 ީރައުރްބ ފ

:ުރާޔިދ އ ގުޢޫރްޝަމ

ްސްވިޑްލޯމ ްޓޯޕރައ އ ްލަނަޖީރ

:ްޓްނަޓްލަސްނޮކ ޭއ .ިއައ .ީއ ގުޢޫރްޝަމ

ްޑ ޓިމިލ ްޓ ވިއަރްޕ ީއ.ީޑ.ީސ

EIA for the proposed Outer Reef Maintenance Dredging Project in Maafaru Island, Noonu Atoll

Table of Contents

Table of Contents ...... i List of Figures ...... vi List of Tables ...... vii List of Abbreviations ...... ix Acknowledgement ...... x Lead Consultant’s Declaration ...... xi Proponent’s Declaration...... xii Executive Summary ...... xiii 1 INTRODUCTION ...... 1 1.1 Purpose of the EIA ...... 1

1.2 Project Proponent ...... 1

1.3 Legal Status of channel area...... 1

1.4 Background and Rationale of the Project ...... 2

1.5 Project Scope ...... 2

1.6 Aim and Objectives ...... 3

1.7 Project Location ...... 3

1.8 Consultants, Contractors and Government Institutions...... 8

1.9 Project Financing...... 8

1.10 Scope and Terms of Reference of EIA ...... 8

1.11 Assessment Methodology ...... 9

1.11.1 General Approach ...... 9 1.11.2 The Study Area...... 9 1.11.3 Field Observations ...... 11 1.11.4 Desk Study Review ...... 12 1.11.5 Public and Key Stakeholder Consultation ...... 13 1.11.6 Data Analysis ...... 13 1.11.7 Report Format ...... 13 1.12 Study Team Members ...... 14

1.13 Limitations of the study...... 14

2 PROJECT DESCRIPTION ...... 16 2.1 Project Outline and Project Site Plan ...... 16

2.2 Existing Site Conditions ...... 20

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2.3 Detailed Project Outline and Work Methodology...... 21

2.3.1 Dredging Reef Entrance ...... 21 2.4 Work Methodology ...... 25

2.4.1 Mobilization and Site Setup ...... 25 2.4.2 Dredging ...... 25 2.5 Project Schedule and Life Span ...... 26

2.5.1 Work Sequence ...... 26 2.6 Waste Management, Logistics and Safety Measures ...... 26

2.6.1 Site Office and Temporary Accommodation ...... 26 2.6.2 Utilities and waste management ...... 26 2.6.3 Pollution Control Measures ...... 26 2.6.4 Health and Safety Measures ...... 27 2.6.5 Emergency Spill Response Plan ...... 27 2.6.6 Fire Prevention ...... 28 2.7 Summary of Project Inputs and Outputs ...... 28

2.8 Demobilization ...... 28

3 POLICY AND LEGAL FRAMEWORK ...... 29 3.1 Relevant Legislation ...... 29

3.1.1 Environment Protection and Preservation Act (Act no. 4/93)...... 29 3.2 Relevant Regulations and Guidelines ...... 30

3.2.1 Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations 2012 ...... 30 3.2.2 Regulation on Sand and Coral Mining ...... 31 3.2.3 Regulation on Dredging and Land Reclamation ...... 31 3.2.4 Waste Management Regulation 2013 ...... 32 3.2.5 The Environmental Liability Regulation (Regulation 2011/R-9) ...... 33 3.2.6 Compliance ...... 33 3.3 Environmental Permits Required for the Project ...... 33

3.3.1 Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Decision Note ...... 33 3.3.2 Dredging and Reclamation Permit ...... 34 3.3.3 Operating License for Aerodrome ...... 34 3.4 Responsible Institutions ...... 34

3.4.1 Ministry of Environment and Energy ...... 34 3.4.2 Atoll Council ...... 35 3.5 Guiding Policies and Documents ...... 35

3.5.1 National Environmental Action Plan II (NEAP II) ...... 35

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3.5.2 Waste Management Policy ...... 36 3.6 International Conventions ...... 36

3.6.1 Convention on Biological Diversity ...... 36 3.6.2 UNFCCC and Kyoto Protocol ...... 37 4 EXISTING ENVIRONMENT ...... 38 4.1 Physical Environment ...... 38

4.1.1 Meteorology ...... 38 4.1.2 Hydrology ...... 44 4.1.3 Beach ...... 50 4.1.4 Marine water quality assessment ...... 58 4.1.5 Bathymetry ...... 58 4.1.6 Marine resource use ...... 59 4.1.7 Lagoon Environment ...... 59 4.2 Biological Environment ...... 63

4.2.1 Marine Environment ...... 63 4.2.2 Marine protected areas and sensitive sites ...... 71 4.2.3 Breeding or nursery grounds for protected or endangered species ...... 71 4.3 Hazard Vulnerability of the Site...... 72

5 Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Measures ...... 74 5.1 Introduction ...... 74

5.2 Evaluation of Significant Impacts ...... 74

5.3 Impacts on Natural Environment during Construction ...... 82

5.3.1 Noise Pollution and Vibration Impacts ...... 82 2.3.5 Marine Water Quality ...... 82 5.3.3 Marine Biodiversity ...... 83 5.3.4 Changes in Hydrodynamics ...... 85 5.3.5 Coastal Processes ...... 85 5.3.6 Impact on unique habitats ...... 87 5.3.7 Impacts from waste ...... 87 5.4 Impacts on the Natural Environment during Operational Phase ...... 87

5.4.1 Coastal Processes ...... 87 5.5 Impacts on the Socio-economic Environment ...... 87

5.5.1 Impacts on accessibility and transportation ...... 87 5.5.2 Impacts on Safety ...... 87 5.6 Mitigation Measures for Significant Adverse Impacts ...... 88

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5.6.1 Air and Noise Pollution ...... 88 5.6.2 Increased Turbidity and Sedimentation ...... 88 5.6.3 Contamination of Marine Water ...... 88 5.6.4 Change in Coastal Processes ...... 89 5.6.5 Marine Habitat Destruction ...... 89 6 ALTERNATIVES ...... 90 6.1 “No-project” Alternative ...... 90

6.2 Alternative Dredge Waste Disposal Options ...... 91

6.3 Alternative options to land barge ...... 93

6.4 Alternative Channel...... 94

6.5 Sedimentation control measures...... 95

7 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN ...... 99 7.1 Environmental Management System ...... 99

7.2 Management Structure and Responsibilities ...... 100

7.2.1 Project proponent ...... 100 7.2.2 Environmental Consultant ...... 101 7.2.3 Environmental Protection Agency ...... 101 7.3 Non-Conformances and Corrective Action ...... 101

7.4 Reporting ...... 101

8 ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING PLAN ...... 105 8.1 Introduction ...... 105

8.2 Objectives of the Monitoring Plan ...... 105

8.3 Before construction ...... 105

8.4 Construction Phase Monitoring Plan ...... 105

8.5 Operating Phase Monitoring Plan ...... 106

8.6 Monitoring report ...... 112

8.7 Cost of monitoring ...... 112

8.8 Commitment to monitoring ...... 112

9 STAKEHOLDER CONSULTATIONS ...... 113 9.1 Maafaru Island Council ...... 113

9.2 Regional Airports- Ministry of Tourism ...... 114

9.3 Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure (MHI) ...... 115

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9.4 Consultation with Island community of Maafaru ...... 116

10 Potential Data Gaps and Assessment Limitations ...... 118 10.1 Gaps in Information ...... 118

10.2 Uncertainties in Impact Prediction ...... 118

11 Conclusions ...... 119 REFERENCES ...... 121 APPENDIX A – Terms of Reference ...... 123

APPENDIX B – Site Plan ...... 124

APPENDIX C – Approvals ...... 125

APPENDIX D – Work Plan ...... 126

APPENDIX E – Survey Locations...... 127

APPENDIX F – Water Quality Results ...... 128

APPENDIX G – Bathy Chart ...... 129

APPENDIX H – CV’s of Consultants...... 130

APPENDIX I – Beach Profiles ...... 131

APPENDIX J – Commitment Letter and Declaration ...... 136

APPENDIX K – Acknowledgement Letter by Noonu Atoll Council ...... 137

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List of Figures

Figure 1.1: Location map of Maafaru Island ...... 4 Figure 1.2: Locality map showing nearby islands and registered environmentally sensitive areas 5 Figure 1.3: Satellite Image of project site ...... 6 Figure 1.4: Project Site Boundary ...... 7 Figure 1.5: Study Area boundary ...... 10 Figure 2.1: Overall Dredging and Dregde Disposal Plan ...... 17 Figure 2.2: Dredging and Dregde Disposal Plan – Outer channel ...... 18 Figure 2.3: Dredging and Dregde Disposal Plan – Temporary Sandbed ...... 19 Figure 2.4: Cross-section of entrance channel ...... 22 Figure 2.5: Cross-section of entrance channel ...... 23 Figure 4.1 Monthly Frequencies of Wind Direction in Central Maldives based on NationalMeteorological Center 10 year Data (adapted from Naseer, 2003)...... 40 Figure 4.2: 24 Year Wind Frequency Recorded at National Meteorological Center...... 41 Figure 4.3: Mean Daily Wind Speed and Direction Recorded at National Meteorological Centre (1978 – 2004) ...... 41 Figure 4.4: Mean Monthly Rainfall in Hulhule’ (1975-2004) ...... 42 Figure 4.5: Maximum daily rainfall by year in Hulhule’ (1975-2005) - (Source: Hay, 2006) ..... 43 Figure 4.6 Maximum Temperature by year in Hulhule’- 1975-2005 (Source: Hay, 2006) ...... 44 Figure 4.7: Estimated wave patterns around the proposed site ...... 47 Figure 4.8: Observed current flow patterns on the reef during August 2014 ...... 48 Figure 4.9: Predicted tides for February 2012, based on data from Department of Meteorology, Maldives ...... 49 Figure 4.10: Predicted tides for March 2012, based on data supplied from Department of Meteorology, Maldives ...... 50 Figure 4.11: Historical photograph of Maafaru - 1969 ...... 54 Figure 4.12: Historical changes to shoreline – 1969 and 2017 ...... 55 Figure 4.13: Pictorial summary of coastal conditions on the western side of Maafaru ...... 56 Figure 4.14: Pictorial summary of coastal conditions on the eastern side of Maafaru ...... 57 Figure 4.15: Reef physiographic zones of the proposed site ...... 61 Figure 4.16: Reef physiographic and ecological zones of the proposed site ...... 62 Figure 4.17: Number of Fish families and Species recorded per transect at Maafaru reef ...... 63 Figure 4.18: Select images shows the reef top and benthic substrate...... 64 Figure 4.19: Benthic substrate composition along transect 1 ...... 65 Figure 4.20: Select images showing benthic composition along transect 2 ...... 66 Figure 4.21: Benthic substrate composition along transect 2 ...... 66

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Figure 4.22: Top panel shows the benthic substrate in the reef slope while bottom panels shows the reef top at shallow point...... 67 Figure 4.23: Benthic Substrate and Reef view...... 68 Figure 4.24: Benthic Substrate and Giri view...... 69 Figure 5.1: Estimated Affected Area ...... 76 Figure 5.2: Marine impact footprint...... 86 Figure 6.1: Original dredging, reclamation and back filling plan (Maafaru Aiport EIA, 2017) .. 97 Figure 6.2: Alternative channels ...... 98 Figure 7.1: Environmental Management Strategy flow diagram...... 100 Figure 7.2: Environmental Management Plan for construction and operation phase ...... 102

List of Tables

Table 1.1: Limitation of the study...... 14 Table 2.1: Channel and basin dredging specifications...... 23 Table 2.2: Dredge waste disposal area ...... 23 Table 2.3: Preliminary Sand bed specifications ...... 24 Table 2.4: Preliminary borrow area specification ...... 24 Table 2.5: List of labour requirements for dredging ...... 25 Table 2.6: Major Project Inputs ...... 28 Table 2.7: Major Project Outputs...... 28 Table 4.1: Key Meteorological Information of the Maldives ...... 38 Table 4.2: Summary of General Wind Conditions from National Meteorological Centre ...... 40 Table 4.3 Probable Maximum Precipitation for various Return periods in Hulhule’ ...... 43 Table 4.4: Tidal Variations at Male’ International Airport(Source: MEC, 2004) ...... 49 Table 4.5 Marine water quality assessment results from MWSC laboratory ...... 58 Table 4.6: Fish species recorded along transect 1, 2, and 3 ...... 70 Table 4.7: Predicted disaster risks in Maafaru ...... 73 Table 5.1: Impact Identification Matrix for the project ...... 77 Table 5.2: Evaluation of impacts on the natural environment during construction and operation stage ...... 78 Table 6.1 Summary of no project alternative...... 90 Table 6.2 Summary of sediment containment measures ...... 95 Table 7.1: Environmental management plan for construction and operation phase ...... 103 Table 8.1: Monitoring Schedule for pre-construction stage (if required) ...... 107

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Table 8.2: Monitoring Schedule for construction stage ...... 109 Table 8.3: Monitoring Schedule for operation stage ...... 111 Table 9.1: List of persons consulted from Maafaru Island Council ...... 114

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List of Abbreviations

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

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Acknowledgement

The lead author of this report is Dr. Ahmed Shaig.

Additional assessments were undertaken by the following team members.

Mr. Mohamed Faizan (Marine assessment)

Ms. Shahdha (Socioeconomic assessment)

Mr. Ali Nishaman (Terrestrial surveying)

Mr. Ali Moosa Didi (Beach and bathymetry surveys)

Mr. Mohamed Ali (Marine surveying)

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

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Lead Consultant’s Declaration

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

Dr. Ahmed Shaig

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Proponent’s Declaration

Intentionally Left Blank

(Please refer to Appendix J)

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Executive Summary

The purpose of this document is to fulfil the requirements to get necessary environmental clearance from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to carry out the proposed maintenance dredging and widening of the outer reef entrance of Maafaru Island, Noonu Atoll. The project is part of International airport development project in Maafaru, which has an existing EIA Approval. This EIA was meant to be an EIA Addendum to the project but did not qualify as an Addendum. As per EIA procedures, additional activities, although it is part of an existing project, cannot be addressed in an EIA Addendum, if the site is 500 m away from the approved project site. The proponent of the project is Regional Airports, Ministry of Tourism, Maldives.

The main additional works proposed are to widen and deepen the existing outer reef entrance and to build a temporary sand bed to unload construction material and equipment on to the airport site. The changes are required to allow the Contractor’s barge to access the lagoon and the airport site for unloading. The existing reef entrance and lagoon depths are not suitable for the proposed barge to access.

The proposed channel widening activity offers significant benefits to the local community and the airport. The channel is narrow and with the increase in traffic during airport operations, a widened channel offers a welcome development to the community, especially since the harbour redevelopment project is also ongoing on the island.

The proposed sand bed offers no specific benefit to the community but is meant to be removed.

To-date 3 EIAs have been prepared for this project for different proponents. This report takes note of the progressive changes that have taken place over the life of the project since 2009. The most recent report was approved 2 months ago. Hence, some of the baseline data used in this report uses the latest EIA results especially closer to the island. New assessments were conducted on the outer channel area.

Most components of the proposed developments are generally in conformance to the laws and regulations of the Maldives. Dredging and Reclamation Approval is required from EPA.

The two proposed work sites have been heavily modified in the past. The outer channel was dredged before and the proposed location for the temporary sand bed has been used to create a similar temporary sand bed by the previous developer. Thus the foot print of the impact is largely limited to previously dredged areas.

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Significant impacts associated with dredging and reclamation activities are present in this project. However, given the work is being undertaken on previously dredged foot prints and due to the short-time frame of works the overall impacts are expected to be moderate compared to an untouched area.

One of the most critical impacts highlighted in the assessment is the potential for dredge waste to create further environmental issues, including continued turbidity due to erosion and deposition in the dredged channel. After discussions during Scoping Meeting, Island Council meeting and Proponent consultations, it has been recommended to avoid disposing the dredge waste on the side of the channel and to transport them back to the Airport Construction site to be used for reclamation. This will help reduce the overall reclamation foot print as envisaged in the original EIA.

The Island Council also sought to address the possibility of creating a new channel instead of widening the existing channel. This was due to the presence of three patch reefs in front of (but 180 m away from) the channel. The Contractor and the Proponent identified that it may be difficult to accommodate a new component to the project that has significant budget implications.

Alternative options have been evaluated for the most significant impacts. Options to avoid the temporary sand beds, create a new channel and to dispose channel dredge waste was considered. Among these a new option to dispose the dredge waste preferred, as explained above.

Consultations were carried out with members of Noonu Maafaru Island Council. Island community of Maafaru, Regional Airports - Ministry of Tourism, and Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure. Maafaru island council and the public are in favour of this project since the project is beneficial for the community.

An Environment Management Plan (EMP) and Monitoring Plan (MP) are presented in this report that addresses the new activities. However, the EMP and MP presented here must be combined with the programmes presented in the Original EIA.

Overall the community of Maafaru, and island council were welcoming of this project. It offers benefits to the community and the airport during operations stage. Thus, this report concludes that the project should be implemented on grounds of very high socio-economic benefits.

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ާސާލ ުޚ ާދާސ

ުރަސައ ނާފްށޮކ ްށަޓްއ ވާމިތ ްނިއުޢޫރްޝަމ ގުމުރުކާޅުފ ިއާމުރުކްނުފ ުރ ނ ުރޭބ ގުރަފާމ .ނ ީކަޓޯޕިރ ާސާރިދިމ

ިއަކަޓްށަމުގްނިހ ުޢޫރްޝަމ ީކަމުނޭބ ުޑނަގިއަމ ގުޓޯޕިރިމ. ވ ޓޯޕިރ ޭއ.ިއައ.ީއ ާވިއަފިވ ރުކުރާޔްއަތ ްނުތޮގ ގުމުރުކްނަޒަވ

ިމ . ވ މުޅ ހަށުހ ްށައީސްނ ޖ އ ްނަޝްކ ޓޮރްޕ ްޓްނ މަރަޔަވްނ އ ްއަތުތާމޫލުއަމ ާވްނުނޭބ ްށައަދްއުހ ގީށވާމިތ ާވްނުނޭބ

ޭއިއައީއ ީނަވ ްށައޫރްޝަމ ްޓޯޕރައ އ . ވ ކ އަބ ގުއޫރްޝަމ ގުމުޅ އ ްއ ޓޯޕރައ އ ްލަނަޝޭނރަޓްނިއ ިއަގުރަފާމ.ނ ީކައޫރްޝަމ

ްއ އ ްމަޑްނ ޑ އ ގްޓޯޕިރ ޭއިއައީއ ގީރުކ ްއަތްތަކްއަސަމ ާވިއަފާނަމިހ ިއަގްޓޯޕިރިމ . ވ އަފިބިލ ްސ ވަދްއުހ ިވ ރުކުރާޔްއަތ

ީނަވ ްނިއޭއީޕީއ ްށަމުދ ހ ޭއިއައީއ ަސްއާހ ްށަކަތްތަކްއަސަމ ިމ ްސ ވަމަންތޮއ ިއަފްށޮކްނޭލްޕ ްނިރުކ ްނަޅަހަށުހ ިއަގުތޮގ

ާވިއަފިބިލ ަދްއުހ ްށަމުރުކ ްތަކްއަސަމ ީނަވިއަފިހ ޖަމަހ ްށަމުރުކ ްއަތްތަކްއަސަމ ިވުރުތިއ ްށައޫރްޝަމ ީކަބަބަސ . ވ އަފާގްނައ

ސަރަހައްދަށްވުރ 011 މީޓަރު ބޭރު ސަރަހައްދ އްކަމަށް ވުމ ވ . މިމަޝްރޫޢުގ އ ދިޔާރަކީ ރީޖަނަލް އ އަރޕޯޓްސް، މިނިސްޓްރީ

. ވ އ ްމަޒިރައުޓ ްފޮއ

ުރޭބ ގުށަރ ީކަކަތްތަކްއަސަމ ުޑނަގިއަމ ާވިއަފްށޮކުރުތިއ ްށައުއޫރްޝަމ ގުމުޅ އ ްއ ޓޯޕރައއ ްލަނަޝޭނރަޓްނިއ ިއަގުރަފާމ

ިލ ވ ީތުގަވ ްށަމުލުފުއ ުނާމާސ ިއާޗްއ ކަތ ާވްނުނޭބ ްށަމުރުކްތަކްއަސަމ ްށަޓިއަސ ްޓޯޕރައ އ ިދައ ްނުރުކާޅުފ ިއާމުރުކްނުފ ުރ ނ

ިއާމުދ ހ ްތޮގ ނޭވ ދަވ ްށައ ރ ތުޅަފ ގުށަރ ްޖާބ ގުރަޓްކ ރްޓްނޮކ ީކަދަސްޤަމ ުޑނަގިއަމ ގުކަތްތަކްއަސަމިމ . ވ މުޅ އ ްއ އ ްޑ ބ

ޭވ ދަވ ްށައ ްޖާބ ީރުހ ުރާހިމ ގުރ ނ ިއާޅަފ ގުށަރ . ވ މުދހ ްތޮގ ނޭލޭބ ްށަށަރ ުނާމާސ ިއާޗްއ ކަތ ާވްނުނޭބ ްށަތަކްއަސަމ

. ވ ށޮކަލިތ ރުވްށަރަވ

ުރ ނ ުކ އ ިއާމުޅ އ ްޓޯޕރައއ . ވ އ ނާރުކ ާދިއަފ ގޭއ ްށަޓޯޕރައ އ ިއާށަންނުތިޔްއަރ ގުރަފާމ ްނުމުރުކާޅުފ ުރ ނ ގުށަރ

ްނުރުތިއ ގީމ. ވ އ ވ ރުކާފަލ ްށަމަކ ނާވްއ ކަތިތަދ ްނުބަބަސ ގޭއ ަމަނިފްށޮކުނާޅުފ ުރ ނ ްނުމުވަނިގ ްއަތުދނަޅުއ ާރުކްނުނޭބ

ިރ ތްނުނޭބ ްސ ވްށަރަވ ްށަށަރިމ ީކަމުރުކާޅުފ ުރ ނ ިއަގްއ ޅަވިޑނަދ ާދްށައިރުކ ްސ ވުއޫރްޝަމ ގުމުރުކ ީގްއަރަތ ުރަބާހ ގުށަރ

. ވ އ ވ ލ ބުނ ްށަކަމަކ ނާރުކ ްއ އާދިއަފ ިކަވ ްށަންނުތިޔްއަރ ގުށަރ ްނުމުޅ އ ްޑ ބ ިލ ވ ްސ ވަމަންނ ހ އ . ވ އ ނާވ ްށަކަމަކ

ުކ އިއާއ އ ިދައ . ވ އަފްށޮކުރާޔްއަތ ީނަވްޓޯޕިރ ޭއިއައީއ 3 ްނުކަތާރަފ 3 ްށަނަތ ާހިމ ާކަޓްށަމުޅ އ ްއ ޓޯޕރައ އ ިއަގުރަފާމ

ީނަވިއަފްށޮކުރާޔްއަތ ްއ ޓޯޕިރ ޭއިއައީއ ްށައޫރްޝަމ ިމ ްނުހަފ މްނ އ . ވ އަފިވ ނ ގ ްސ ވްއ ކަތުލަދަބ ޭވ ދ އ ީނަވްށައުއޫރްޝަމ

ގުކަތުތާމޫލުއަމ ާވިއަފްށޮކްނުނޭބ ިއަގްޓޯޕިރ ޭއިއައީއ ާވިއަފާދަހ ްނުހަފ މްނއ ާކަޓްށަމުދ ހ ްޓޯޕިރިމ . ވ ންނިރުކ ްސަމ 8 ގީމ

. ވ އ ނާވިއަފްށޮކ ްސ ވޭވރާސ ގުރ ނ ްށޮކަސްއާހ ްށަޓޯޕިރިމ ްނުރުތިއ

Prepared by: CDE Consultancy Page|xv EIA for the proposed Outer Reef Maintenance Dredging Project in Maafaru Island, Noonu Atoll

ިއާމުރުކްނުފ ުޅަފ ްނިރުކ ގުމުގުށ ފ ްތަކްއަސަމ ްނުރުތިއ ގީމ . ވ އ ތ ފ ްށަދިއާވަގ ިއާނުނާގ ގޭޖްއާރ ްއަތިއަބ ގޫރްޝަމިމ

. ވ އ ނޭހ ޖްނަގަނ ްނިއ ޭއީޕީއ ަދްއުހ ގުމުކްއިހ

ްށަޓްއ ވ ގުދްއަހަރަސ އ ްނިރުކ ގީމ ްސ ވީކަދްއަހަރަސ ދ ާވިއަފިހ ޖަމަހ ްށަމުރުކ ްށަމުރުކްތަކްއަސަމ ާވިއަފާނަމިހ ިއަގުޓޯޕިރ

ްނުމަރުކްނުނޭބ ްސ ވުރާހިމ ީކަރ ނ ާވިއަފިހ ޖަމަހ ްށަމުރުކާޅުފ ްނުތޮގ އ . ވ ދްއަހަރަސ ދ ާވިއަފްސ ނ ގ ްއ ކަތުލަދަބ ަނިގ

ިއަފާޅައ ްއ އ ްޑ ބިލ ވ ާކަޓްށަމުޅ އ ްޓޯޕރައ އ ގީރުކ ީކަދްއަހަރަސ ާވިއަފިހ ޖަމަހ ްށަމުޅ އ ްޑ ބ ިލ ވ ިދައ . ވ ރ ނ ަންނައ

ގީރުކ ިއަގްއ ތޮގަލްމުޖ ީކަދްއަހަރަސ ާރުކުރަސައ ްނުތަކްއަސަމ ގުމުނޮކ ގުއޫރްޝަމިމ ްނުމަކްނ ހ އ . ވ ކ ދްއަހަރަސ ިރުހާގަނުނ

. ވ އ ވ ލްށޮކަގަހާފ ްނަކްއަތުދްއަހަރަސ ާވިއަފްށޮކުރަސައ ްސ ވްނުކަތްތަކްއަސަމ

ްނުތޮގ އ. ވ އ ނާރުކ ްއ ކަތުރަސައ ޭވ ދޭނ ްށަޓްއ ވ ގުށަރ ްނުތަކްއަސަމ ގުމުކްއިހ ިއާމުނޮކުޅަފ ޭނ މިހ ިއަގުއޫރްޝަމ

ްސ ވަމަންނ ހ އ . ވ އ ނާވިއަފާނަމިހ ިއަގްޓޯޕިރިމ ްއަތުޅަވަޔިފ ނާދިޅ އ ްށަމުރުކަޑުކ ްނަކްނަކ އ ިއާކަތުރަސައ ޭވ ލ ބ ްށަމަކ ނާރުކ

ީކަތަތްތަކްއަސަމިމ ިއަފ ވ ްށަކަތުދްއަހަރަސ ާވިއަފްށޮކ ްއަތްތަކްއަސަމ ަދަފިމ ްސ ވްނިރުކ ީކަކަތުދްއަހަރަސ ާރުކ ްތަކްއަސަމ

ިއަގްއ ޓްށ ވ ާރުކުނ ްއ ކަތްތަކްއަސަމ ްސ ވްއ އ ަދަފިމ ްނިރުކ ްނުމަކްނަކްނަކ ނޭވ ލާމްނިނ ިއަގޭރ ތ ގްއ ތަދްއުމ ުރުކ

. ވ އ ނާވަޑުކުރަސައ ާރުކ ްނުބަބަސ ގުކަތްތަކްއަސަމިމ ރުވްށަމުރުކ

ްނ ގްށޮކްނުފ ުރ ނ ީކަމަކްއ އ ނާރުކްއ ރަސައ ޭވ ދޭނ ުޑޮބ މްނ އ ްނުބަބަސ ގުއޫރްޝަމ ިއަގުތޮގ ުނުވ ރުކަގަހާފ ްނިއާސާރިދިމ

ްނުބަބަސ ގުމުޅ އ ްށައ ރ ތ ުރ ނ ްނުލައ ިއާމުއިދ ްނ ގިއަރިގ ގުޑނަގިލ ވ ިއަގޭރ ތ ގޭއ . ވ މުޅ އ ްށައ ރ ތުޅަފ ގުށަރ ިލ ވާގަނ

ފަޅުތ ރޭގ ކިލަނބުކަން ދިގު މުއްދަތަކަށް ދ މިގ ން ދިއުން ހިމނ އ ވ . މިކަމާއި ގުޅޭގޮތުން ސްކޯޕިން މީޓިންގަ އާއި، ރަށު

ިއަގުލަދަބ ގުމުޅ އ ްށައ ރ ތުޅަފ ިރިއަކ ގުރ ނ ިލ ވާގަނ ްނ ގ ނޮކ ުރ ނ ުހަފްށަމުރުކާރަވްޝަމ ިއާރާޔިދ އ ިދައ ްލިސްނުއަކ

. ވ އ ނާވިއަފީދާފަލ ިއަގްޓޯޕިރިމ ްށަމުރުކްނުނޭބ ްށަކަތްތަކްއަސަމ ގުޓިއަސ ްޓޯޕރައ އ

ގުމުރުކާޅުފ ުރ ނ ުރޭބ ިރުހ ުރާހިމ ްނުބަބަސ ގުމުރުހ ްއ ކަތުރަފ ިދުކ ިއަގުރުދ ުރަޓީމ 021 ގުރ ނ ުރޭބ ިރުހ ުރާހިމ

ްނިއ ރ ތ ްޓ ޖަބ ގުއޫރްޝަމ ީކަމަކިމ ްސ ވަމަންނ ހ އ . ވ އ ވިއަފިދ އ ްނިއްލިސްނުއަކ ުރަފާމ ްށަމުޑނ ކ ްއ ރ ނ ުއައ ިއަގުލަދަބ

. ވ އަފްށޮކަގަހާފ ީނަވ ުރަޓްކ ރްޓްނޮކ ިއާރާޔިދ އ ިއަގުމަކްއ މަކިތަދ ްށަމުރުކ

ްށައިރުކ ްތަކްއަސަމ ާޅާނ ްޑ ބިލ ވ ްނުތޮގިމ . ވ އ ނާވިއަފާލާލަބ ްށަކަތުލަދަބ ނާދިވ ނ ގ ްށައޫރްޝަމ ިއަގާސާރިދ ިމ

ގ ންދ ވިދާނ ގޮތްތަކާއި، އައު ނ ރ އް ކ ނޑުމާއި، ނ ރު ފުންކޮށްގ ން ނަގާ ވ އްޔާއިމ ދު އަމަލުކުރ ވިދާނ ގޮތްތައް

ގުމުޅ އ ްޓޯޕރައ އ ިއަގުލަދަބ ގުމުޅ އ ްށައ ރ ތުޅަފ ިލ ވ ާގަނ ްނުރ ނ ްށަތޮގާވިއަފްށޮކަގަހާފ . ވ އ ނާވިއަފިވ ރުކަސާރިދ

. ވ އަފިހ ޖަމަހ ީނަވ ްށަމުރުކްނުނޭބ ްށަތްތަކްއަސަމ

Prepared by: CDE Consultancy Page|xvi EIA for the proposed Outer Reef Maintenance Dredging Project in Maafaru Island, Noonu Atoll

ްނުލްއ ގ ނާދިބިލ ްނުކަމަކ ަދަފ އ ިއާށަމުތަގ ނ ދ ުރަވްނިމާރުކ ްށަތުރަސައ ްށަޓްއ ވާމިތ ާވިއަފްށޮކްނާޔަބ ިއަގުޓޯޕިރިމ

ިއަކަޓްށަމުތަގ ނ ދ ްނަކްނަކ އ ިއަގްއ ތަލާހ ޖްއ ވިތަމިރުކ ްއ މަކ ްތ ނިއަފިވ ރުކްނާޔަބ ިއަގުޓޯޕިރ ިމ ިދައ ިއާށަމުރުކަޑުކ

ާވިއަފިހ ޖަމަހ ްށަމުލ ބ ްނުތޮގިމ . ވ އ ވިއަފިހ ޖަމަހ ްށަމުރުކްނީރްކްސ ްށަމަކްނަކ ަދަފިމ ިއަގުކަތާލަހުރަމ ިކ އ ގުއޫރްޝަމ

. ވ އ ނާވިއަފިނ މިހ ިއަގްޓޯޕިރިމ ްލީސްފަތ ގުކަތިއަބ

މިމަޝްރޫޢު ގ ބައިތަކާއި ބ ހޭގޮތުން މާފަރު ކައުންސިލްއާއި، މާފަރު ރައްޔިތުންނާއި، ީރ ަޖ ަނ ްލ ެއ ައރޕޯ ްޓ ްސ ެގ ިއ ުތ ުރ ްނ

ްށައިރުކ ުޢޫރްޝަމ ާވިއަފާޅަހަށުހ . ވ ނުވ ރުކުލަދްއަބ އި އާ ރޗަ ކް ރަ ޓް ސް ރާ ފް ން އި ޑް ން އެ ގް ން ސި އު ހަ ފް އޮ ރީ ޓް ސް ނި މި

ގްނުތިޔްއަރ ގުށަރ ިއާއްލިސްނުއަކ ުރަފާމ ީކައޫރްޝަމ ިދައ . ވ ތ ނ ްއ ޒާރިތުއިއ ގްއ ތާރަފ ްސ ވްއ އ ްނިއިމ ުދ މާމުއިދްނ ގ

.ވ އަޔިދްނ ގ ވަގަހާފ ްނުކަތާރަވްޝަމ ްނަކްއ އޫރްޝަމ ްތޮއުބީހުރަތ

ިއަގީތަމ ްނުމަކްނ ހ އ . ވ ކ އޫރްޝަމ ުޑޮބ ްށަރަވ ާދިއަފ ގޭއ ުރިއާލަބ ްނުކަރަޒަނ ީދާސިތްގިއ ިދައ ީޢާމިތްޖިއ ީކައޫރްޝަމިމ

ގުށަރ ީކަމަކްނަކ ާވިއަފާނަމިހ ިއަގުޢޫރްޝަމިމ ިއަގްއ ތޮގަލްމުޖ ުރިއާލަބ ްށޮކްތަޔާޢިރ ްށަމަކްނަކ ާވިއަފިވ ރުކްނާޔަބ ިވ ންނ ދ

ުމްނިހުމ ްނުއިދްނ ގ ްށައިރުކ ްނުމުވ ްށަކައޫރްޝަމ ާވިއަފިނ މިހ ްއ ކަތާދިއަފ ަނިގ ްށައޫރްޝަމ ްޓޯޕރައ އ ިއާންނުތިޔްއަރ

. ވ ކ އޫރްޝަމ

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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 maintenance dredging and widening of the outer reef entrance of Maafaru Island, Noonu Atoll. The project is part of International airport development project in Maafaru, which has an existing EIA Approval. This EIA was meant to be an EIA Addendum to the project but did not qualify as an Addendum. As per EIA procedures, additional activities, although it is part of an existing project, cannot be addressed in an EIA Addendum, if the site is 500 m away from the approved project site.

This document has been developed based on the Terms of Reference (Appendix A) issued by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on 8 February 2018 following scoping meeting held on the same day. This document is submitted to EPA by the proponent to fulfil the requirements of Environmental Protection and Preservation Act (EPPA) of the Maldives (4/93), more specifically the clause 5 of the Act, which states that a report should be submitted before implementation of any project that may have a potential impact on the environment.

1.2 Project Proponent

The proponent of this project is Regional Airports, Ministry of Tourism, Maldives. Regional airports office sits under the Ministry of Tourism and is responsible for allocating island for regional airport development and overseeing their development. In the case of Maafaru Island, the Regional Airports may directly develop the island with overseas funding. The channel works are to be funded by the same funding source.

Contact details for the proponent are:

Mr. Samee Ageel 11th Floor, Velaanaage Ameer Ahmed Magu Malé Republic of Maldives Tel: +(960) 3323776

1.3 Legal Status of channel area

The proposed reef area falls under the jurisdiction of the Island Council. The site is outside the Airport boundary. The channel is currently being used as the main entrance channel to the inner lagoon of Maafaru reef. The original reef entrance was dredged under government funding.

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The Island Council is in favour of this project as it has been seeking to undertake maintenance dredging for quite some time. Approval from the Council is presented in Appendix C.

The proposed temporary sand bed location is located within airport boundary.

1.4 Background and Rationale of the Project

The airport development project has been in consideration for development since 2006. After agreements were signed and cancelled with three difference parties and Government, on October 2017, the government decided to develop the airport by themselves with the assistance of foreign assistance. The new plan includes a development of an international airport with a 2200 m runway and facilities to handle mid-sized commercial aircrafts and private jets. Construction works have begun on the site and vegetation clearing has been completed. The project requires importing armour rocks and material onto the island. The supply barge is 30 m wide and has a draught of -3.0 m. At present the island outer reef entrance is 25 m wide and has a depth between -2.5-3.0 m MSL. The channel needs to be widened and deepened to allow the barge to access the island. The Maafaru community is also in need of undertaking maintenance dredging on the existing channel. At presented, there is an ongoing harbour redevelopment project on the island being under taken by MTCC. This project provides an opportunity for the local community to undertaken this activity at no cost to them. The barge is also unable to access the island beach due to shallow depths. It is therefore proposed to extend the existing temporary sand bed near the project site to allow the barge to land on the island. According to the Proponent and the Contractor, both activities are essential for the project.

1.5 Project Scope

The overall project involves the construction and operation of an international airport on Maafaru Island. The proposed project activities covered in this EIA are to widen and deepen the existing outer reef of Maafaru, and to construct a temporary sand bed for the barge to access the island.

The project components are divided into Phases as follows:

Phase I – Preliminary Works and Dredging works

1. Mobilization and site setup

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2. Undertaken outer reef maintenance dredging works 3. Dispose dredge waste 4. Construct temporary sand bed. Phase III – Demobilization

1. Remove temporary sand bed. 2. Demobilize equipment.

1.6 Aim and Objectives

The proposed project has multiple aims and benefits. The aim is to improve the island access facilities including the outer channel which will assist in the construction stage and operations stage of the airport. It will also assist in improving the useability of Mafaaru Island Harbour. The objective of Regional Airports is to build, own and operate an advanced international airport in Noonu Atoll. The specific objectives of the project are as follows:

 Allow the smooth operations of construction activities on the island.  Comply with all Maldivian regulations, including constructing and operating the project to Guidelines.

1.7 Project Location

Maafaru Island is located on the eastern rim of Noonu atoll at approximately 05° 49' 55" N and 73° 28' 49" E (see Figure 1.2). With a width of about 0.6 km and roughly 4.6 km in length, Maafaru is one of the largest inhabited islands of the Maldives with a total land area of approximately 119 Ha. At present, the island population stands at 616 persons (National Bureau of Statistics, 2014).

The proposed project site for the reef entrance is located on the western rim Maafaru Reef and the sand bed is located towards the centre of the island (See Figure 1.4). Site location map and satellite image is presented in Figure 1.1 and Figure 1.3 respectively. Figure 1.2 shows the sensitive environments with in the vicinity.

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Figure 1.1: Location map of Maafaru Island

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Figure 1.2: Locality map showing nearby islands and registered environmentally sensitive areas

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Figure 1.3: Satellite Image of project site

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Figure 1.4: Project Site Boundary

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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 Regional Airports. The contractor is Tuff Offshore, Singapore.

The Government agency relevant to this development is Regional Airports department in Ministry of Tourism.

All coordination related to the project will be carried out by special project team established by the proponent.

1.9 Project Financing

It is estimated that the project will cost around US$ 50,000. The project is financed by Abhu Dhabi Fund for Development.

1.10 Scope and Terms of Reference of EIA

The scope of this EIA is broadly based on the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations 2007. The assessment more specifically adheres to the Terms of Reference (ToR) issued by the Environmental Protection Agency on 8 February 2018. The ToR is based on scoping meetings held between the stakeholders on the same day. A copy of the ToR is attached in Appendix A.

The EIA report contains the following main aspects.

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

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

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

An assessment of the potential impacts during both construction and operational stages of the project as well as identification and cost of the potential mitigation measures to prevent or

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EIA for the proposed Outer Reef Maintenance Dredging Project in Maafaru Island, Noonu Atoll reduce significant negative impacts during both construction and operation stages of the project(Chapter 5).

Assessment of alternatives for the proposed project (Chapter 6)

Details of the environmental monitoring plan (Chapter 7).

Potential gaps in information (Chapter 8)

Main conclusions (Chapter 9)

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.

Much of the baseline information for this study is based on the original EIA. The rest of this section summarises the methods used in the original EIA.

1.11.2 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 areas within 300 m will be affected by the development and that Maafaru will experience the bulk of the socio-economic change.

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EIA for the proposed Outer Reef Maintenance Dredging Project in Maafaru Island, Noonu Atoll

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 Maafaru Island and the reef system with 500 m radius of the foot print. The most direct physical impact will be on-site in the area of the actual physical interventions, particularly marine removal footprints.

 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 Maafaru and the nearby islands, atoll and region. Study area boundary is presented in Figure 1.5 and survey locations map for the project is attached in Appendix E.

Figure 1.5: Study Area boundary

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EIA for the proposed Outer Reef Maintenance Dredging Project in Maafaru Island, Noonu Atoll

1.11.3 Field Observations

Field assessments were undertaken around the proposed new foot print between 5-8 February 2018. Surveys for the original EIA was undertaken on May and August 2017. Field visits for the new works mainly covered water quality, marine environment and lagoon condition of the proposed project sites. In addition, stakeholder consultations were carried out in Maafaru.

Coastal Processes

Beach profiles were taken from designated locations around the island using standard levelling techniques during original EIA surveys. These profile locations are marked in Appendix I. The measurement of beach profiles involves standard practice of surveying with a staff and a dumpy level. Measurements were taken along the beach profile line at different intervals, wherever there occurred a distinctive morphological feature, such as beach ridge, high water mark, an erosion scarp, dip, rise, or other significant break in the beach slope up to a minimum distance of 30 m from the Benchmark. Other beach attributes such as beach rock were marked using handheld GPS.

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

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

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

Marine Assessments

Manta tow survey

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

Photo Quadrat Survey

The benthic composition of the substrate was assessed by taking ten high-resolution images every 5 m (pictures covering 0.5m2 of the seabed) along the same transect line used for the fish surveys. These were later analysed using CPCe. CPCe, or Coral Point Count with excel extension, developed by the National Coral Reef Institute, is software designed to determine coral community coverage and diversity using transect photographs. Underwater photographic

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EIA for the proposed Outer Reef Maintenance Dredging Project in Maafaru Island, Noonu Atoll frames are overlaid by a matrix of randomly generated points, and the fauna/flora of species or substrate type lying beneath each point is identified. 20 random points per picture were analysed to characterize the substrate composition (sample size: 200 points per transect).

Fish census

Fish census was carried at each line transect survey location. All fishes observed along 50 m belt transect at each site was recorded and their abundance recorded as follows: Single (1), Few (2- 10), Many (11-100) and Abundant (>100).

Timed swim

Timed swim carried out at three locations, to qualitatively determine the benthic substrate composition at these locations. Swims were timed at 5 minutes, during which two observed swam across the site noting down the main benthic substrates, seagrass and coral species observed. Three replicate swims were made at each site.

Water Quality

Water quality parameters were assessed from MWSC laboratory and onsite using a multi- parameter probe. Water quality samples were taken at different locations selected based on proposed developments. Parameters measured include electrical conductivity, total dissolved solids (TDS), salinity, pH, temperature, and dissolved oxygen (DO). Nitrates, nitrites and phosphates were analysed at the Public Health Laboratory which uses methods prescribed in “Standard Methods for Examining Water and Wastewater”. pH, Salinity and TDS was tested onsite using a multi-parameter probe. Samples were collected in clean 1.5L PET bottles after washing them with the water to be sampled. Water samples were collected at mid depth. Biological samples were collected in sterilized 100 ml glass bottles provided by the Public Health Laboratory.

1.11.4 Desk Study Review

A literature review was conducted to acquire background information on the site and its environment as well as to identify possible environmental impacts of similar developments in island settings. In this context, the EIA Regulations 2012, best practices from similar development activities, scientific studies undertaken in similar settings around Maldives and previous documents/historical publications was considered.

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

 The original EIA for the airport development project in Maafaru Island

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EIA for the proposed Outer Reef Maintenance Dredging Project in Maafaru Island, Noonu Atoll

 Second EIA for the airport development project in Maafaru Island

 Third EIA for the airport development project in Maafaru Island

 EIA for resort development in N. Dhigurah Island

 EIA for airport development in R. Ifuru Island

 EIA for airport development in Sh. Funadhoo Island

 Island development plans of Maafaru.

 Master plan concept submitted by the proponent to Ministry of Tourism.

 Relevant regulations, including Civil aviation regulations, dredging and reclamation regulation, Dewatering Regulation and Regulation on cutting down and uprooting trees. Sections of this report are derived from the first and second EIA prepared for the airport by CDE Consulting. The existing environment section has been updated where changes were observed and in components where time sensitive conditions existed.

1.11.5 Public and Key Stakeholder Consultation

Stakeholder consultations were undertaken with the following stakeholders:

 Maafaru Island Council

 Maafaru public

 The proponent

 Contractor

1.11.6 Data Analysis

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

1.11.7 Report Format

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

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EIA for the proposed Outer Reef Maintenance Dredging Project in Maafaru Island, Noonu Atoll

1.12 Study Team Members

The team members of this EIA are: Dr. Ahmed Shaig (EIA and coastal environment Specialist) Mr. Ali Nishaman (Terrestrial Environment Expert) Mr. Mohamed Faizan (Marine Environment Specialist) Mr. Mohamed Ali (Marine Environment Specialist) Mr. Ali Moosa Didi (Terrestrial surveying and bathymetry) The curriculum vitae’s of the EIA consultants are attached in Appendix H of this report

1.13 Limitations of the study

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

The table below summarizes the limitation of this study.

Table 1.1: Limitation of the study

Issue/Item Required Information Current Status / action Natural Hazard Detailed modelling of flooding and Data not available at local level; Risks storm damage risks use broad level studies undertaken for Maldives Environmental Historical and long-term records on Baseline snapshots of the site taken baseline data reef and lagoon environment. to design mitigation measures Long-term site specific or even Snapshot data for currents taken; regional data (at least 2 years). Most wave studies in Noonu atoll used critical data include current, wave and sediment movement history. Socio-economic data of Maafaru and Primary data collection will be time nearby atolls consuming; Secondary sources will be used Environmental Environmental Standards for Air and USEPA standards followed Standards Noise Quality

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EIA for the proposed Outer Reef Maintenance Dredging Project in Maafaru Island, Noonu Atoll

Issue/Item Required Information Current Status / action 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 Long to Medium-term site specific Not enough time to collect data; no Modelling 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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EIA for the proposed Outer Reef Maintenance Dredging Project in Maafaru Island, Noonu Atoll

2 PROJECT DESCRIPTION

2.1 Project Outline and Project Site Plan

The proposed site plan is presented in Appendix B. A Reduced version of the site plan is provided in Figure 2.1. More details are provided in Figure 2.2 and 2.3.

As noted in Chapter 1, the project components are divided into Phases as follows:

Phase I – Preliminary Works and Dredging works

5. Mobilization and site setup 6. Undertaken outer reef maintenance dredging works 7. Dispose dredge waste

8. Construct temporary sand bed. Phase III – Demobilization

3. Remove temporary sand bed. 4. Demobilize equipment.

Details of the proposed project components are outlined in the next section.

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EIA for the proposed Outer Reef Maintenance Dredging Project in Maafaru Island, Noonu Atoll

Figure 2.1: Overall Dredging and Dregde Disposal Plan

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Figure 2.2: Dredging and Dregde Disposal Plan – Outer channel

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Figure 2.3: Dredging and Dregde Disposal Plan – Temporary Sandbed

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2.2 Existing Site Conditions

The proposed sites have been modified in the past. The proposed outer reef entrance has already been dredged and the project proposed to widen it and to deepen it. The channel is currently being used by residents for island access. The lagoon bottom of the existing channel mainly consists of seagrass deposits and sandy bottom. The areas considered for expansion mainly consists of sand and rubble bottom.

The proposed sand bed site was used as the temporary sand bed site during the initial airport project in 2011. The airport construction works did not proceed but the sand bed was constructed to unload equipment. About 30% of the sand bed has eroded but much of it remains. The new sandbed is being constructed on the foot print of the original sand bed and connects to the remaining sand section of the sand bed.

The proposed channel site has moderately strong wave conditions during the SW monsoon while the sand bed site has comparatively calmer conditions.

The island lagoon has one of the largest seagrass beds in the northern Maldives. The proposed dredging and reclamation is to be carried out on the seagrass bed which will affect the seagrass ecology.

There are no areas listed as marine sensitive areas within 10 km of the site.

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2.3 Detailed Project Outline and Work Methodology

2.3.1 Dredging Reef Entrance

2.3.1.1 Mobilization

The likely dredging fleet will consist of the following:

o 2 excavators

o One barge

2.3.1.2 Justifications

Need for expanding and deepening reef entrance

As explained Chapter 1, the barge carrying materials and equipment are arriving at the site on 30 ft wide barge. This is also the barge that will be used throughout the project. The barge will not be able to access the lagoon safely without widening the channel. If the channel is not dredged, the chances of barge grounding on reef is high.

The sand bed is required to the island. The water is too shallow for the barge to access the island. There are no other options to unload the armour rocks and machinery.

Location

The decision to use the existing outer reef entrance to undertake maintenance dredging was determined based on the fact that dredging works will be minimal, the channel can be used affectively for airport operations and due to the benefits it offers to the locals. An alternative site closer to the airport and within the boundary of the airport could have been considered, but was found to involve higher costs and more environmental impacts.

The location for the sand bed has been determined based on the fact there is an existing sand bed. A new sand bed will be more time consuming, involve higher costs and environmental impacts.

Design

The proposed channel design is based on the need for a 30 ft barge to access the lagoon and slopes are based on the standard designs used by Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure.

The design to place dredge waste on the side of the channel is due to the time constraints, high cost of transporting the dredge waste to the island, and the difficulties in disposing the material on the island, given that a lot of dredging works are still to be undertaken for the project.

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Equipment

Dredging will be undertaken with an excavator as it is the only practical option for a small scale job such as this. The excavator will be mounted on sand beds. When dredging the deeper areas of the channel, an excavator mounted a barge is the only practical option.

All temporary sand beds are to be removed upon completion of works.

2.3.1.3 Design Details

General Specifications

The detailed dredging site plan is presented in Appendix B.

The entrance channel and harbour basin shall be dredged to a minimum depth of -3.5 meters below Mean Sea Level (MSL) where required. Channel design layout shall consider minimum sediment accumulation inside the basin to allow for a maintenance dredging period of not less than 5 years.

The temporary sand bed is to be constructed above high water mark and higher than predicted wave height at the site. Sand bed is also to be wide enough to allow a truck to pass through.

Dredge Area and Volume for the channel

The new channel will have a width of 35 m (a maximum of 40 m). The channel design profile is presented in Figure 2.4.

-4.0 m

Figure 2.4: Cross-section of entrance channel

Details of the channel dredging specifications are presented in Table 2.1. The width of the channel is expected to be between 35-40 m. The value of 40 m is the maximum. Similarly, the

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Table 2.1: Channel and basin dredging specifications

Length (m) Width (m) Dredge Depth Estimated Site Area (Sq m) Max (m MSL) Volume (cbm) Proposed channel 16,000.00 407 35-40 - 4.00 25,899.00

All dredge waste is to be disposed on the side of the channel as was done during the original channel dredging project on Maafaru. The disposal site is the same site as before. The estimated disposal site specifications are provided in Table 2.2. The disposal volume represents the estimated maximum values.

Table 2.2: Dredge waste disposal area

Avg Fill Elevation Estimated Site Area (Sq m) (m MSL) Volume (cbm) Main disposal site 8800 2.0 30,000

Dredge Area and Volume for the Sand bed

The preliminary profile of the sand bed is presented in Figure 2.5. The estimated elevation is +1.2 m MSL and the construction width is between 4-6 m. The slope varies from 1:1 to 4:3. Estimated volumes for the sand is presented in Table 2.3 and the estimated dredge volume is presented in Table 2.4.

Figure 2.5: Cross-section of entrance channel

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Table 2.3: Preliminary Sand bed specifications

Est Area (Sq Length (m) Width (m) Estimated Site m) Elevation Volume (cbm) Temporary sand 300 10-6 2500 – 5000 bed 1800-3000 +1.2 cbm

Table 2.4: Preliminary borrow area specification

Est Area (Sq Estimated Site m) Depth (m MSL) Volume (cbm) 2700 – 5000 Borrow area 2700-3500 -1 to -3 m cbm

2.3.1.4 Quality and characteristics of fill material

The condition of material below the 1 m from the lagoon bed is not known. The surveys were not based on drilling and therefore will only provide an indication of the material on the top 1m of the seabed. Given the high cost of marine borehole drilling no such studies have been carried out. It is estimated that the proposed sites will contain a high percentage of coral rubble mixed with sand.

2.3.1.5 Transportation

Transportation when dredging in deeper areas will be via a barge, the rest will be on trucks via the temporary sand beds or simple bedrolling (transferring sand to sites with excavator rolling the material along).

2.3.1.6 Emergency Plan for Spills

No marine spills are anticipated as the works are to be carried out by an excavator. Refuelling the excavators will be done on land. Fuel barrels will be kept in a bunded area with necessary mats.

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2.3.1.7 Labour Requirements and Availability

The tentative list of labour requirements is given in Table 2.5.

Table 2.5: List of labour requirements for dredging

Activity or work group Specialists Labourers Dredge fleet 2 2 Workshop 1 Administration 1 Total 4 2

2.3.1.8 Housing of Temporary Labour

Majority of the workforce will be accommodated on rented houses in Maafaru Island.

2.4 Work Methodology

2.4.1 Mobilization and Site Setup

The site for dredging needs to be marked with flags. All the equipment required for dredging is already on site as part of the harbour dredging project.

2.4.2 Dredging

2.4.2.1 Timing and Coordination

This will be one of the first steps in the dredging process.

The local weather conditions especially the monsoonal variations is likely to affect the construction activities and equipment operation. Particular activities such as marine construction and dredging works may be hampered during the peak SW monsoon severe weather. Work therefore should ideally be completed before May.

Coordination with regards to the mobilization component of the project will be carefully planned

2.4.2.2 Dredging Method

Dredging for the reef entrances and harbour basins will begin by excavator mounted on a barge for the deeper areas. Once the shallow areas are reached excavators will be mounted on a sand bed. The dredge material will be transported to the disposal site via trucks along the temporary sand bed. Alternatively it may be transported by excavator suing the bedrolling method. The excavators will have a bucket size of about 1.5 m3.

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Constructing the sand bed will require material to be dredge from the surrounding lagoon and placing on the bed. Excavator will be mounted on the sand bed. The temporary sand bed will be dismantled and the material will be placed in the

2.5 Project Schedule and Life Span

Mobilisation for the project will begin after the EIA is approved. It is anticipated that the completion of the dredging works will be completed in 3 weeks. The preliminary work plan is provided in Appendix D. The actual details may be dependent on the final contractor.

2.5.1 Work Sequence

Site set out will be the first step followed by channel dredging works. Once the channel works are completed, excavators will shift to construct the sand bed.

Decommissioning the sand bed will be the final activity of the construction program.

2.6 Waste Management, Logistics and Safety Measures

2.6.1 Site Office and Temporary Accommodation

As noted above, the existing facilities in Maafaru Island will be initially used for accommodation and site office.

A site office and temporary accommodation blocks will be constructed at the initial phase for the overall airport project.

2.6.2 Utilities and waste management

Utilities support is not required for this component of the project. Waste management will only require disposal of general domestic waste resulting from food packaging and excavator parts and consumables packaging.

2.6.3 Pollution Control Measures

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

 Machinery will be properly tuned and maintained to reduce emissions and minimize risk of spills/leaks.  Fuel storage will be bunded  Spill kits will be maintained around island to handle any liquid spills

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2.6.4 Health and Safety Measures

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

 Contractor would ensure that Health and Safety procedures are complied.  Dredging activities would be carried out under the supervision of a suitably experienced person.  All reasonable precautions will be taken for the safety of employees, and equipment will be operated by competent persons.  Health checks will be administered before work commences  Warning signs, barricades or warning devices will be provided and used.  Necessary safety gear will be worn at all times.  Fire extinguishing equipment would be readily available and employees will be trained in its use.  First aid kits will be made available on site  The construction site will be properly closed to unauthorised personnel

2.6.5 Emergency Spill Response Plan

An emergency response plan for chemical and oil spills would be in place before construction commenced. It would include preventive and preparatory measures, including:

 Placement of storage areas away from any sensitive environment  Storage in secure, bunded locations  Training of employees on good environmental practice and response protocols  Installing warning signs and barricades where needed  Installing response kits at accessible locations. The kit would include absorbents, personal protective equipment and clean-up tools.  Acquiring material safety data sheets for all hazardous chemicals

Additionally, the response plan would include:

 Risk assessment, including identification of hazards, potential triggers, contaminant pathways, and impact thresholds for different chemicals  Response procedure, defining roles and responsibilities of key personnel  Communication protocols- among responsible personnel, and to authorities and neighbours, if required  Long-term environmental monitoring, if required.

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2.6.6 Fire Prevention

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

2.7 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 2.6 and the type of outputs (products and waste streams) and what is expected to happen to the outputs are given in Table 2.7.

Table 2.6: Major Project Inputs

Input resource(s) Source/Type How to obtain resources Construction workers Local and foreign, mainly foreign Recruiting agencies, etc. Engineers and Site Local and foreign Advertise in local papers, supervisors social networks, etc. Maintenance material Similar to above Import or purchase locally where available Water supply (during Desalinated water 10 m3/day desalination construction) plant on site Electricity/Energy Diesel 10 kVA portable generator Machinery Barges and Excavators, Contractor vehicles on site Food and Beverage Mainly imported sources except a few Import and purchase locally locally available products. Firefighting equipment Fire Pumps, Fire Protection System, Local suppliers Smoke Detectors, Carbon Dioxide and Foam Fire Extinguishers, etc. Fuel, Kerosene and LPG Light Diesel, Petrol, Lubricants Local suppliers

Table 2.7: Major Project Outputs

Products and waste Anticipated quantities Method of disposal materials Dredge waste Large quantity Backfilling; reclamation ; geobags; construction Waste oil Small quantities incinerated

2.8 Demobilization

Demobilization plan depends on the contractor. In general, this component will demobilize equipment but will be shifted to the main airport construction project.

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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 Maafaru Airport Construction 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 sensitive environments in the vicinity or protected species.

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 or Vandhoo for disposal according to Government regulations and standards. It should not be disposed on the Island, as it does not have the necessary facility.

3.2 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.

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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

3.2.2 Regulation on Sand and Coral Mining

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

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

Sand should not be mined from any part of an existing island. Sand should also not be mined from within 100 ft. of the shoreline of the existing Maafaru Island. Please see regulation on dredging and reclamation for further controls.

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 purposes.

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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 has been prepared according to this regulation but will require Dredging and Reclamation approval from the EPA.

3.2.4 Waste Management Regulation 2013

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

- Implement measures to minimize impacts on human health

- Formulate and implement waste management standards

- Implement an integrated framework for sustainable waste management

- Encourage waste minimisation, reuse and recycling

- Implement Polluter-Pays Principle

- Introduce Extended Producer Responsibility WMR contains four main sections:

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

- Waste management Permits: Defines approval procedures for waste sites

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

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

- Enforcement: Defines procedures to implement WRM and penalties for non-compliance.

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The proponent shall register the waste site and any vessels used for transporting waste to Thilafushi or Vandhoo.

The proponent should also ensure compliance from the subcontractors in handling and transport of waste from the island to the designated waste site.

3.2.5 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.

3.2.6 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

Prepared by: CDE Consulting Page| 33 EIA for the proposed Outer Reef Maintenance Dredging Project in Maafaru Island, Noonu Atoll 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 costal 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 approval. EIA application form will only be accepted when the form is submitted with the costal modification approval given by EPA in writing.

This approval will be granted at the time of issuing EIA Decision Note.

3.3.3 Operating License for Aerodrome

The project will require an operating licence from Department of Civil Aviation before commencement of operation.

The proponent will apply for a licence once the construction phase is completed.

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 the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). In this respect EPA has now been mandated to manage all issues relating to Environmental Impact Assessment of individual projects.

The Ministry of Environment also seeks the advice of National Commission for the Protection of Environment (NCPE) on all significant environmental matters. The commission is appointed by the president and is mandated to advice the Minister of Environment on environmental matters

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3.4.2 Atoll Council

The Maldives is grouped into 20 administrative areas under a new local governance system Noonu Atoll has an elected Atoll Council located in Manadhoo. The Atoll Council Office is the main focal point of Government Ministries in Male’ and they co-ordinate and liaise with government ministries and elected island councils on all issues relating to the Atoll. A copy of this EIA will be submitted to the Atoll Council.

Atoll Council’s letter of receipt is attached to the report.

3.5 Guiding Policies and Documents

3.5.1 National Environmental Action Plan II (NEAP II)

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

Accordingly, the key strategies of the NEAP II are:

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

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

 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:

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

 Biological diversity conservation; integrated reef resources management;

 Integrated water resources management;

 Management of solid waste and sewerage;

 Pollution control and management of hazardous waste;

 Sustainable tourism development;

 Land resources management and sustainable agriculture

 Human settlement and urbanization.

3.5.2 Waste Management Policy

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

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

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

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

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

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3.6.2 UNFCCC and Kyoto Protocol

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

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

4.1.1.1 Climate

The climate in Maldives is warm and humid, typical of the tropics. The average temperature ranges between 25C to 30C and relative humidity varies from 73 percent to 85 precent. The annual average rainfall is approximately 1,948mm. As Maldives lies on the equator, Maldives receives plenty of sunshine throughout the year. Significant variation is observed in the climate between the northern and the southern atolls. The annual average rainfall in the southern atolls is higher than the northern atolls. In addition, greater extremes of temperature are also recorded in the southern atolls. On average southern atolls receive 2704 hours of sunshine each year. Table 4.1 provides a summary of key meteorological findings for Maldives. The nearest meteorological station is National Meteorological Centre on Hulhule’ Island. This study uses National Metrological Centre due to more comprehensive data.

Table 4.1: Key Meteorological Information of the Maldives

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

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4.1.1.2 Monsoons

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

4.1.1.3 Winds

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

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

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

Table 4.2 summarises the wind conditions in central Maldives throughout a year. Medium term meteorological data from 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.

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Table 4.2: Summary of General Wind Conditions from National Meteorological Centre

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

Figure 4.1 Monthly Frequencies of Wind Direction in Central Maldives based on NationalMeteorological Center 10 year Data (adapted from Naseer, 2003).

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N NNW NNE 2500

NW 2000 NE 1500 1000 WNW ENE 500

W E

WSW ESE

SW SE

SSW SSE S

Figure 4.2: 24 Year Wind Frequency Recorded at National Meteorological Center.

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

The Disaster Risk Profile of Maldives (UNDP, 2006) reports 11 cyclonic events over the Maldives in the last 128 years 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.

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Maafaru Island is located in a moderate to low risk cyclonic hazard zone which has the potential for a maximum probable cyclonic wind speed of 55.9 kts (UNDP, 2006).

The project site is expected to receive regular annual strong winds during the peak SW monsoon.

4.1.1.4 Rainfall

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

The 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).

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.

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Figure 4.5: Maximum daily rainfall by year in Hulhule’ (1975-2005) - (Source: Hay, 2006) The probable maximum precipitations predicted for Hulhule’ by UNDP (2006) are shown in Table 4.3.

Table 4.3 Probable Maximum Precipitation for various Return periods in Hulhule’

Station Return Period 50 year 100 year 200 year 500 year Hulhule’ 187.4 203.6 219.8 241.1 Source (UNDP, 2006)

4.1.1.5 Temperature

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

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There is considerable inter annual variability in extreme temperatures for Hulhule as shown in Figure 4.6. A maximum temperature of at least 33.5oC is rare at Hulhule and has a return period of 20 yrs (Hay, 2006).

Figure 4.6 Maximum Temperature by year in Hulhule’- 1975-2005 (Source: Hay, 2006)

4.1.2 Hydrology

4.1.2.1 Waves

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

Maldives experiences occasional flooding caused by long distance swell waves that are generated by South Indian Ocean storms (Goda 1988). The swell waves of height 3 meters that flooded Male’ and Hulhulé’ in 1987 are said to have originated from a low pressure system off west coast of Australia (refer the next section for more detail). In addition, Maldives have recently been subject to earthquake generated tsunami reaching heights of 4.0m on land (UNEP,

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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).

There are two major types of waves reaching Maafaru Island: long distance swells waves and monsoonal wind waves (see Figure 4.7). It is exposed to wind generated waves during both monsoons and during transition periods (see Figure 4.7). The local monsoonal wind waves generated during the SW monsoon affects the western side of the reef and the western shoreline. The wide fetch within the atoll allows moderately strong wave setup outside the western rim of the reef system. These waves are generally with a period of 2-5 seconds and sometime at 0.5 m within the atoll. It may reach heights of 0.2 to 0.3 m within the reef lagoon as well. The western side receives the strongest waves during the peak SW monsoon and during transition periods. The eastern side receives strong swell waves year round and wind waves during NE monsoon. The intensity of the SW monsoon wind waves are somewhat reduced on the eastern side.

In general, the shorelines of the proposed site is exposed to strong wave activity on the eastern side and moderate to low wave activity on the western side. Being located on the eastern rim of North Male’ Atoll, the reef system is exposed to SE and NE periodic swells. The eastern side also lies exposed to the Indian Ocean and is considered the oceanward side of the reef system.

4.1.2.2 Swell Waves and Storm Surges

The long distance swell waves approach mainly from a SE direction (See Figure 4.7) and is dominant throughout the year (Young, 1999). These waves come with a wave period of 14-20 seconds with a maximum height of 3.0 m in open ocean. The island’s western shoreline is protected from the SE swells.

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). Being located on the eastern rim of Male’ Atoll, Maafaru Island Reef is protected from predominant swell waves from the SW as well as the abnormal swell waves originating from intense storms in the southern hemisphere between 73°E and 130°E longitude. Waves generated from abnormal events could travel against the predominant swell propagation patterns (Goda, 1998), causing flooding on the eastern and southern islands of Maldives (UNDP, 2009). Some of these waves may penetrate the reef passes on the western rim and reach the western side of Maafaru Reef, albeit with a reduced intensity due to the presence of islands within the atoll lagoon.

Wave activity may be strongest on the western side during the peak SW monsoon in May, October and November.

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4.1.2.3 Currents

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

The estimated patterns in current flow during NE monsoon transition and SW monsoon are presented in Figure 4.8.

In-situ current assessment was undertaken on the project site during August, representing the SW monsoon conditions. Observations were undertaken using drogue method over 1-2 days, measuring only during flood tide. Measurements were undertaken as a grid to determine the various patterns off the reef, on reef flat and deep lagoon.

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Figure 4.7: Estimated wave patterns around the proposed site

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Figure 4.8: Observed current flow patterns on the reef during August 2014

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The current flow during August was generally easterly direction. Currents on the ends of the reef had speeds of over 0.3 m/s a owing to the westerly winds.

The speed of flow on the reef flat slows down. Flow on the reef flat on average was less than 0.2 m/s.

4.1.2.4 Tidal Pattern

Water levels at the site vary mainly in response to tides, storm surge or tsunamis. Tides in the Maldives are mixed and semi-diurnal/diurnal. Tidal variations are referred to the standard station in at Hulhulé Island. Typical spring and neap tidal ranges are approximately 1.0m and 0.3m, respectively (MEC, 2004). Maximum spring tidal range in Hulhulé is approximately 1.1m. There is also a 0.2 m seasonal fluctuation in regional mean sea level, with an increase of about 0.1m during February to April and a decrease of 0.1m during September to November. Table 4.4 summarizes the tidal elevations reported at Hulhulé, which is representative of tidal conditions at the project site.

Table 4.4: Tidal Variations at Male’ International Airport(Source: MEC, 2004)

Tide Level Referred to Mean Sea level Highest Astronomical Tide (HAT) +0.64 Mean Higher High Water (MHHW) +0.34 Mean Lower High Water (MLHW) +0.14 Mean Sea Level (MSL) 0.00 Mean Higher Low Water (MHLW) -0.16 Mean Lower Low Water (MHLW) -0.36 Lowest Astronomical Tide (LAT) -0.56

The predicted tide curve for the period for the month of February and March at Hulhule Tide Gauge is presented in Figure 4.9 and 4.10 below.

Figure 4.9: Predicted tides for February 2012, based on data from Department of Meteorology, Maldives

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Figure 4.10: Predicted tides for March 2012, based on data supplied from Department of Meteorology, Maldives 4.1.3 Beach

4.1.3.1 Beach erosion and coastal changes

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 shoreline data from GPS surveys from 2008, 2014 and 2016.

The results show that the island has undergone shoreline changes in some sections of the island over the last 45 years. Comparison of data between 1969 and 2017 shows that, shoreline had shifted significantly on the northern end and the eastern side (See Figure 4.12). Overall approximately 2.1 ha has eroded on the northern side and about 7.0 Ha has accreted on the NW and western side (excluding the reclaimed 0.9 Ha land around the jetty). Beach had retreated 150 m on the northern tip over the last 45 years. This material has been relocated to the NW side where the beach advanced a 144 m. The changes on the northern tip are typical of north-south oriented islands located on the eastern rim of the atoll. Similarly the shift of 150 m is in line with similar shifts observed in other islands of Noonu Atoll. However, the growth of 7 ha of new land is remarkable on an eastern rim island. Much of this material would have come from the western side lagoon and through erosion on the eastern shoreline. The presence of a deep opening on the NE corner of the reef may also have assisted in the significantly high sediment production rate of the reef, as observed in the growing reef flat width.

Beach retreat on the western side, immediately SE of the settlement is about 126 m over the last 45 years (See Figure 4.12). A total of 3.4 ha have been eroded and evidence of recent severe erosion is present in the dead vegetation in the lagoon. About half of the eroded material is found

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The rest of the island beach on the eastern side has remained fairly stable although a slow retreat of 6-7 m over the 45 years could be observed.

The western side shoreline in general has advanced at a very slow rate (See Figure 4.12). However there have also been patches of erosion, the most notable of which is the area where shoreline was naturally breached for the lagoon to connect with the marshland.

This assessment shows the long-term trend based on two points in temporal scale, but it discounts the periodic shifts that may have occurred in between.

Comparison of data from the last 15 years shows the same trends as observed in the medium- term. Erosion on the eastern side, as discussed above, has accelerated over the last 12 years.

Predicted short-term beach changes

The volatility of the northern end of the island is likely to continue but at a slower rate for the next few years. The severe erosion on the eastern side is likely to continue the same speed until the shoreline forms a smooth line.

The proposed site is exposed to erosion on the eastern side, albeit at a slow pace. Coastal protection may be required at some stage.

4.1.3.2 Beach Characteristics

Beach characteristics could be usefully determined by two main features: i) beach composition; ii) beach profiles.

Beach composition and sediment characteristics

The beach material on the western side generally comprise of fine sand. The reclaimed area contains mixed rubble due to dredged material.

The south western side of the island generally comprise of coarse to very coarse material.

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

Prepared by: CDE Consulting Page| 51 EIA for the proposed Outer Reef Maintenance Dredging Project in Maafaru Island, Noonu Atoll 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 I.

4.1.3.3 Seasonal Sediment Movement Pattern

Much of the seasonal movement is restricted to the northern and southern end of the island, which is the general movement pattern in elongated, north-south oriented islands.

During the NE monsoon the sand pit on the northern end shift wester ward. The process starts during the NE transition period and reaches the maximum extent by the end of February. The process reverses in the SW monsoon with sand shifting east ward.

The western shoreline maintains a fairly constant beach width throughout the year, although the high tide line reaches higher level during the SW monsoon.

Similarly, the eastern shoreline only has minimal movement throughout the year, owing to the year round wave driven currents.

4.1.3.4 Pictorial description of Coastal Conditions

A pictorial summary of the coastal conditions on the eastern and western side of the island is provided in Figure 4.13 and 4.14.

Western side

The northern tip of the island contains a comparatively small sand pit which shifts seasonally (Figure 4.13, D).

The northern half of the western side is fairly stable for most parts of the year but lacks a beach (See Figure 4.14, C). The existing jetty area has been reclaimed from dredged sand but has no solid shore perpendicular structures to obstruct sediment flow (Figure 4.15, B)

Beach on the southern half is narrow with the high tide line reaching into the vegetation (Figure 4.13, F).

There is a naturally breached area on the beach which connects the lagoon and the marsh land (Figure 4.13, E)

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The southern half of the western side is characterised by a seasonal beach with some pioneer vegetation (Figure 4.13, G).

Eastern side

The northern half of the western side does not have beach and the high tide line reaches the vegetation line. There is also persistent but slow erosion in the NE corner (Figure 4.14, A, B). The area immediately SE of the settlement is undergoing severe erosion (Figure 4.13, D). Eroded material are being deposited immediately north of the site (Figure 4.13, C).

The southern half of the eastern side contains a narrow and a comparatively steeper slope with coarse sand (Figure 4.13, B).

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Figure 4.11: Historical photograph of Maafaru - 1969

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Figure 4.12: Historical changes to shoreline – 1969 and 2017

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Figure 4.13: Pictorial summary of coastal conditions on the western side of Maafaru

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Figure 4.14: Pictorial summary of coastal conditions on the eastern side of Maafaru

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4.1.4 Marine water quality assessment

The primary objective of the lagoon water quality sampling was to determine the baseline conditions of the marine water in around the island. Water samples were collected in 1500ml PET bottles from two locations. pH, Conductivity, Total Dissolved Solids, and Salinity was tested using YSI ProDSS Multi-Parameter Water Quality Meter pH and Conductivity probes. Remaining parameters were tested at MWSC’s Quality Assurance Laboratory.

Appendix F shows the test results of the marine water samples collected. The water quality around the site is generally of acceptable standards.

Tests covered both biological and ambient conditions as shown in Table 4.5. The results indicate that sea water around Maafaru is reasonably pollution free. Water at all sampling locations are clear and have normal pH levels and trace amounts of nitrates and phosphates. Salinity levels are within the range 34.45-32.95 (ppt) and therefore fit into the normal seawater levels. Additionally, BOD levels at all sampling sites were low.

Table 4.5 Marine water quality assessment results from MWSC laboratory

Results Parameter SW1 SW2 Clear with Clear with Physical appearance particles particles pH 8.26 8.16 Conductivity (µS/cm) 37,990 37,291 Total Dissolved Solids (mg/L) 33,338.52 33,283.66

o Salinity ( /oo) 34.57 34.47 Temperature (degree Celsius) 23.5 23.3 Total Suspended Solids (mg/l) <5 <5 Turbidity (NTU) 0.594 0.393 *LoQ: Limit of Quantification: 5 mg/L

4.1.5 Bathymetry

A detailed bathymetric survey of the island and its reef system was undertaken during April 2008 for the original EIA and during August 2014 along the proposed coastal work areas. Additional bathymetry along the alternative borrow sites and outfall locations were carried out in August 2017 and February 2018. Survey results have been summarised in bathy charts presented in Appendix G. The depth figures presented are in meters below MSL.

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The reef flat areas on the east of the island have a fairly flat depth ranging from -1.0 to -1.3m MSL. Areas west of the island gently slope into the deep lagoon. The beach line is closest to the reef line on the eastern side. Here, the impact of the sedimentation resulting from the periodical shifts in beach has been responsible for a shallower reef flat. Reef edges drop off from 2.0 to 7.0 m in most part of the reef system.

The most notable feature on the reef system is the deep lagoon at the centre reaching -6.0 m MSL. Depths within the deep lagoon range between -3.0 to -6.0 MSL. There also exists a natural reef entrance with a depth ranging from -3.0 to -5.0m spanning 100m wide.

The water depths within the existing main entrance channel are around -3.0 m MSL.

The proposed sites for sand beds have average depths between -1.0 and -2.0 m MSL.

4.1.6 Marine resource use

The following marine resource uses were identified through interviews with the locals.

 The western reef rim is regularly used for snorkelling by nearby resorts, particularly Irufushi resort and Spa.  The atoll ward lagoon and the oceanward lagoon are commonly used for fishing activities. It is reported that fishing could usually be done on shore using lines, indicating the abundance of various reef fishes in the lagoon.  The reef environment has been in the past used for extensive reef and bait fishing. Remnants of these activities can be found in the reef system with declining fish stock (as reported by fishermen) and anchor damage to reef.

4.1.7 Lagoon Environment

The reef of Maafaru is considerably large with a surface area of 1,233 Ha (12.3 km2). The reef is characterised by a deep lagoon approximately 214 ha large and -6 to -7 m deep. Apart from a natural reef entrance on the northeastern side, the depth of the reef flat is shallow averaging less than -1.5 m MSL. Figure 4.22 summarizes the different lagoon and reef bottom characteristics of the Maafaru Reef system.

The lagoon system comprises various zones of differing characteristics. On the eastern end is the oceanward reef slope. This area is characterised by a mix of live and dead corals. Average live coral cover in the area is estimated at 20%. The total surface area of the outer reef slope is 200 ha (see Table 4.7 below).

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The oceanward reef flat zone is comprised mainly of sand and rubble. The wave breaker zone comprises of an algal ridge which is commonly found in such conditions. The total area of the eastern reef flat is 232 ha or 12% of the reef system. There is a natural reef entrance on the north-eastern end of the island along the reef flat.

The atoll ward (lagoonward) lagoon comprises mainly of an intermediate sand bottom zone, a shallow sand bottom zone and an intermediate sand and rubble bottom zone. Most of these areas have fairly consistent depth between 1.5 – 2.0m MSL and have very low or no live coral cover.

The western end of the reef flat comprises of a live coral cover zone. Much of the lagoon bottom in this area is sand and rubble. The area beyond the live coral cover zone is the atoll ward reef slope. Here again there is a moderate level of live coral cover.

One of the most dominant features of the reef system is a thila or a submerged reef system on the southern end of the island. This area comprises of approximately 21% of the total reef system. Development activities on the island may affect this area, given that there is a constant flow from the lagoon system and on to the ‘thila’.

The other notable feature of the lagoon system is the extensive occurrence of seagrass beds, covering 225 ha or 21% of the reef system (See Figure 4.23).

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Figure 4.15: Reef physiographic zones of the proposed site

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Figure 4.16: Reef physiographic and ecological zones of the proposed site

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4.2 Biological Environment

4.2.1 Marine Environment

The aim of this assessment is to establish the baseline condition at the proposed project location. Marine assessments were carried out on 06 February 2018. The sea was calm and the sky was partially cloudy during the survey. The main objectives of this assessment were:

 to determine the general status of the reef associated with the island  to assess the condition of the marine environment which will be directly impacted by the project  to determine the fish species abundance and composition of the reef system  The following sub-sections provide details site, the methodology adapted for this assessment and the results.

4.2.1.1 Photo Quadrat Survey and Fish Census

Figure below shows the number of fish families and species that was recorded along each transect at Maafaru island Reef. Lowest number of fish species was recorded at T1, and highest number of fish species was recorded at T2. A complete list of fishes recorded is presented in Figure Table 4.6.

35

29 30 28

25

20

15 14 10 10

5

0 T1 T2

Number of Fish Family Number of Fish Species

Figure 4.17: Number of Fish families and Species recorded per transect at Maafaru reef

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Transect 1

This transect was deployed at 2.5 m depth, western side of the existence channel entrance to the island. This site is dominated by old dead coral. This site was assessed as it is the location of the proposed project.

Analysis of the photos shows that the dominant benthic substrate at this site is old dead coral (63.55% ± 4.60SE). Live coral coverage at this site, making up about 8.76± 2.34SE of the survey area. Massive type corals (Porites sp.) were dominant at this site.

A total of 28 fish species 10 fish families were recorded during the fish census. Highest number of fishes were recorded from the family Pomacentridae (7 species). This species mainly feeds on algae of the dead corals and zooplankton in water column.

Figure 4.18: Select images shows the reef top and benthic substrate.

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80.00

63.55 70.00

60.00 SE

± 50.00

40.00

30.00

% Mean % cover 19.29 20.00

8.76 8.41 10.00

0.00 Live Coral Old dead coral Rubble Sand

Figure 4.19: Benthic substrate composition along transect 1

Transect 2

This transect was deployed at 3 m depth, roughly 200 meters north to the previous monitored site.

This site was generally comprised of old dead rock and sand. Dead rocks made about 62.67% ±4.86SE of the surveyed area. Live coral cover was good compared to previous site about 11.33% ± 2.02SE of the transect line. Three main genera of corals were recorded; Porites (massive type) corals were dominant at this site, followed by Porites rus and Pocillopora.

A total 29 fish species belonging to 14 fish families were recorded during the fish census at this site. Highest number of fish species were recorded from families Acanthuridae (6 species). This species is known to predominantly graze on algae and zooplanktons.

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Figure 4.20: Select images showing benthic composition along transect 2

80.00

70.00 62.67

60.00 SE

± 50.00

40.00

30.00 22.67 % Mean % cover

20.00 11.33 10.00 3.33

0.00 Live Coral Old dead coral Rubble Sand

Figure 4.21: Benthic substrate composition along transect 2

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4.2.1.2 Visual Snorkelling Survey

Visual snorkelling surveys were carried out at select locations of the reef. Please refer to site map.

Site 1 – TS1

Visual snorkelling was carried out on the existing entrance channel. This site compromises of a slow steep reef slope with sandy rocky bottom facing the inner basin of the atoll. Live corals were observed in the edge of the reef while the top of the reef is mainly made up from a sandy bottom with isolated old dead blocks, rubbles and massive type corals. Facing the island the enclosed inner lagoon is a sandy bottom with patches of filamentous seaweed (Thalassia hemprichi). The most abundant species of fish family observed was Acanthuridae (Surgeon fishes).

Figure 4.22: Top panel shows the benthic substrate in the reef slope while bottom panels shows the reef top at shallow point.

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Site 2 – TS2

This site is located at top of reef in shallow area where transect 2 was deployed. Similar to site TS1, this site compromises of a slow steep reef slope with sandy rocky bottom with massive blocks facing the inner basin of the atoll. Where live coral coverage is relatively good compared to TS1. The top of the reef, live massive corals (Porites) was observed in one long stretch while at some areas isolated massive blocks with corals rubble was observed.

Figure 4.23: Benthic Substrate and Reef view.

Site 3 – Giri

This site is located on western side of the existence channel entrance, depth range 3~4meters. The Giri is dominated by old dead corals while few isolated massive corals and Pocillopora corals was observed. The most abundant species of fish family observed was Balistidae (Trigger fish) followed by Acanthuridae (Surgeon fish) and Caesionidae (Fusiliers).

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Figure 4.24: Benthic Substrate and Giri view.

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Table 4.6: Fish species recorded along transect 1, 2, and 3

Abundance Species Common Name T1 T2 SQUIREL FISHES & SOLDIERFISHES Sargocentron caudimaculatum White-tail Squirrelfish 2 GROUPERS Aethaloperca rogaa Red-flushed grouper 2 2 EMPERORS Monotaxis grandoculis Large-eye Bream 2 2 SPINECHEEKS Scolopsis bilineata Monacle Bream 2 SNAPPERS Lutjanus bohar Red Bass (Red Snapper) 2 BUTTERFLYFISHES Chaetodon trifasciatus Pinstriped Butterflyfish 2 Chaetodon meyeri Meyer's Butterflyfish 2 Chaetodon auriga Threadfin Butterflyfish 2 Chaetodon collare Head-band Butterflyfish 2 Forcipiger flavissimus Long-nose Butterflyfish 2 ANGELFISHES Centropyge multispinis Many-spined angelfish 2 DAMSELFISHES Chromis virdis Green Puller 2 Chromis dimidiata Two-tone Puller 2 2 Pomacentrus nagasakiensis Scribbled Damsel 2 2 Pomacentrus indicus Indian Damsel 2 2 Pomacentrus philippinus Philipine Damsel 2 Pomacentrus chrysurus White-tail Damsel 2 Abudefduf vaigiensis Sergeant Major 3 4 WRASSES Halichoeres scapularis Zigzag Wrasse 2 Halichoeres hortulanus Checkerboard Wrasse 2 Thalassoma hardwicke Six-bar Wrasse 2 Thalassoma lunare Moon Wrasse 2 2 Cheilinus fasciatus Banded Maori Wrasse 2 2 Novaculichthys taeniourus Reindeer Wrasse 2 Bodianus axillaris Coral Hogfish 2 PARROTFISHES Scarus sordidus Shabby Parrotfish 2 3 Leptoscarus vaigiensis Seagrass Parrotfish 2 GRUBFISHES

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Abundance Species Common Name T1 T2 Parapercis millipunctata Thousand-spot Grubfish 2 MOORISH IDOLS Zanclus cornutus Moorish Idol 2 SURGEONFISHES Acanthurus leucosternon Powder-blue Surgeonfish 2 2 Ctenochaetus striatus Fine-lined Bristletooth 3 2 Zebrasoma scopas Brown Tang 2 2 Naso lituratus Orange-spine Unicornfish 2 2 Naso hexacanthus Sleek Unicornfish 2 Acanthurus nigrofuscus Dusky Surgeonfish 2 2 TRIGGERFISHES Balistapus undulatus Striped Triggerfish 2 2 Balistoides viridescens Titan Triggerfish 2 Melichthys indicus Indian Triggerfish 2 2 Cantherhines dumerilii Barred Filefish 2 PUFFERFISHES Canthigaster valentini Saddled Pufferfish 2 2

4.2.2 Marine protected areas and sensitive sites

There are no sensitive or protected environments within a 10 km radius of the site (see Figure 2.2).

4.2.3 Breeding or nursery grounds for protected or endangered species

All coral reef areas have the potential to be used as breeding/nurseries for reef fishes. No literature is available to indicate that reef system of Maafaru is used as breeding/nursery for fishes, crustaceans, marine mammals, sharks or turtles. Further studies are required to determine the specificity of the sites.

The inland marsh areas of Vakabe Hasanu Fengandu and to some extent, Kandoofaa Kulhi has been identified as a frequenting site for the young of some marine species. This was a recent occurrence (since 2008, according to locals) created due to the unusual natural opening between the marshland and the lagoon. A number of young marine life including, sharks, rays and unidentifiable species of fish was observed during the field visit. This site may well be breeding ground but the time available for this EIA was not sufficient to declare this site as a breeding ground.

Maafaru lagoon is also well known as feeding site for a large number of turtles. It is also a well- known turtle breeding island. Three nests were observed during the field visit (See Appendix J or initial EIA report).

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4.3 Hazard Vulnerability of the Site

According to the UNDP Disaster Risk Assessment Report of Maldives in 2006, proposed extension of Maafaru is located in an area exposed to tsunamis wind storms, storm surges and swell waves. It does not identify the island as being exposed to heavy rainfall flooding. The Indian Ocean tsunami of 2004 devastated parts of the settlement and affected the livelihood of the inhabitants. Maafaru was identified as one of the most affected islands in Noonu Atoll.

Historical records also state that Maafaru was severely affected in 1955 when a storm devastated parts of the island and flooded up to 300 m from the oceanward coastline. This event is known to have affected almost all the islands in Thiladhunmathi Atoll.

The following parameters can be deduced for the Male’ Region based on Disaster Assessment Report and the Detailed Island Risk Assessment Reports (UNDP, 2009).

Tsunami: Maximum probable wave height range 0.8-2.50

Cyclone or storm (wind): Probable maximum wind speed 84.2 knots (category 2 cyclone).

Storm surge: predicted storm surge height – 0.45; predicted storm tide height 1.38.

Rainfall: probable maximum daily rainfall for Hanimaadhoo for a 500 year return period 175.6 mm

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

In general, due to the proposed high elevation of the island and its relative location within the atoll, the proposed island may be relatively safe from most predicted high intensity hazard events in Maldives. The table below summarises the key findings from the assessment.

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Table 4.7: Predicted disaster risks in Maafaru

Hazard Max Impact thresholds Probability of Occurrence Predictio (based on UNDP 2009) (based on UNDP 2006) n (based on UNDP 2006) Low Modera Severe Low Modera Severe te te Impact Impact Impact Swell Waves/storm 1.4 m < 1.2 m > 1.2 m > 2.0m High Moderat Low surges e

(wave heights on reef flat – Average Island ridge height +1.6 m above reef flat) Tsunami 2.5 m <1.5m > 1.5 m > 2.0m Moderat Low Very e low (wave heights on reef flat) SW monsoon high seas 0.5m <1.2m > 1.2 m > 2.0m High Very Unlikel low y

Heavy Rainfall 175mm <60mm > 60mm >175m High Moderat Low m e (For a 24 hour period) Wind storm 84.2 knots <30 > 30 > Very High Moder knts knts 45Knts High ate

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5 Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Measures

5.1 Introduction

The construction of the channel on Maafaru Island will lead to modification and changes of 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 harbour development 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 5.1. 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 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.

5.2 Evaluation of Significant Impacts

Environmental and socio-economic components that may be impacted by the project as identified in Table are further evaluated to identify significant impacts. Assessments of the impacts are conducted using the four criteria of magnitude, reversibility, duration and distribution as described below. Evaluation of key impacts is provided in table 5.1.

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 5.1: Estimated Affected Area

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Table 5.1: Impact Identification Matrix for the project

Activity

& safety

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 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 + Channel widening - - - X X - X X - X + + X Dredge disposal - - - - X - X + - X X - X Temporary sand bed - - - +/- X - X X - X + - X Removing temporary sand bed - X - + X - X X - X X - X Operation Stage Operation of channel X X - +/- X - X X - X + + X Operation of the sand bed

X (no impact), - (negative impact) + (positive impact)

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Table 5.2: Evaluation of impacts on the natural environment during construction and operation stage

Nature/Distribution/D Impact area Potential impacts Reversibility Significance uration/Magnitude

Construction stage Ambient noise Noise pollution: Operation of vehicles, Direct/negative; Easily reversible In significant – Site level machineries during site preparation, dredging, Vicinity of project site; located away from and construction. Short term; settlement Major negative change; Ambient air Air quality degradation: Small amounts of Direct/negative; Easily reversible Insignificant - quality emission are anticipated during operation of Vicinity of project site; Negligible level of machineries and vehicles. Short term; emissions over a short Minor negative change; time period. GHG emissions Increase in GHG gas in atmosphere; Direct/negative and Reversible in the Insignificant - Operation of vehicles that emit GHGs. positive; long run negligible amount of Regional level; GHGs are anticipated Short term; to be released. Minor negative change; Coastal Processes Changes to the flow velocity: The widening Direct/negative and Reversible with Moderately of the channel and dredged waste disposal will somewhat positive maintenance insignificant- changes change the flow of currents around the channel activities and erosion around the channels but will not affect the island. Changes resulting Southern shoreline; mitigation area does not pose a from flow changes around temporary sand bed risk; Potential for Shore-term; may affect shoreline. dredge waste to seep Major negative into channel; Changes to the coastal hydrodynamics: The Temporary sand bed extension of existing sand bed will cause may effect shoreline

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Nature/Distribution/D Impact area Potential impacts Reversibility Significance uration/Magnitude

changes to the coastal hydrodynamics. but the existing bed has been there for a long time now.

Marine water Contamination of marine water; During Direct/negative; Reversible in the Significant - High channel dredging, and dredge disposal, it is medium to long term sedimentation level anticipated that sediment plumes will be Project site; degrades the overall generated and will increase turbidity and water quality, and is a sedimentation, degrading the overall quality of Short term; major stressor on the marine water temporarily marine ecology. The Major negative project also requires most activities to be carried out within the lagoon or in close proximity to marine water, thereby increasing the risk of accidents affecting marine water. Terrestrial Flora Additional site of terrestrial flora and Direct /positive; Reversible if island Moderate- Positive and Fauna fauna: Positive benefits for birds from the Project site; eroded or removed benefits for birds as newly created island.. Short term; they get a roosting Minor negative site.

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Nature/Distribution/D Impact area Potential impacts Reversibility Significance uration/Magnitude

Marine Flora Loss of marine flora and fauna: The benthic Direct/negative; Reversible Significant – and Fauna organisms and habitat of marine organisms in Permanent alteration the direct foot print of the dredging site and Project site; of marine habitat sand bed site. along the project foot Long term; print. Increased turbidity and sedimentation: Degradation of marine water during dredging Major negative will harm the bottom dwelling Holothuroids, other fish species and corals Natural hazard No change on natural hazards Direct/postive; Reversible Moderate – Wider risk and safety Better safety for vessels using channel Project site; channel reduces the Long term; risk of vessel Moderate positive grounding.

Health and safety Risks to health and safety; During the Direct/negative; Reversible Significant - Risks to construction risks to workers health and safety health and safety is increased, as chances of accidents are high. Project site; especially during However, the installation of harbour facilities construction stage. Short term; such increases the visibility during low light conditions thereby reducing risk to workers. Moderate negative

Operation stage Coastal Processes Changes to the flow velocity: The creation of Direct/negative and Reversible with Moderately the channel will change the flow of currents somewhat positive maintenance insignificant – Channel around the channel site. Disposed dredge waste activities and too far from Maafaru

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Nature/Distribution/D Impact area Potential impacts Reversibility Significance uration/Magnitude

may seep into the channel Project site and erosion mitigation island to cause erosion. Northern shoreline of Sand bed has been Changes to the coastal hydrodynamics: The the island; around for many years presence of the sand bed will act as a groyne at the site. building pressure on the shoreline on side. Short-term; However, this has been around for a number of years now, limiting the groyne effect. Minor negative to positive Coastal erosion: No significant erosion expected

Marine water Contamination of marine water; Accidental Direct/negative; Reversible Minor – While spillage of waste, fuel, and lubricants from difficult to clean up vessels during operation of the channel will Project site; and will cause stress to result in contamination. marine ecology, the Short term; probability of an accident occurring is Minor low. Health and safety Risks to health and safety; Use of the newly Direct/positive; Reversible Moderately significant developed channel will reduce chances of Project site; – Increases safety for vessel grounding Long term; the residents of the Moderate positive island.

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5.3 Impacts on Natural Environment during Construction

5.3.1 Noise Pollution and Vibration Impacts

During the mobilisation of equipment and operation of heavy machinery, it is anticipated that significant noise will be generated. The following activities are expected to generate noise pollution.

a. Dredging channel b. Constructing sand bed

However, there are no sensitive receptors within the vicinity of the project site except for the marine life.

With proper mitigation measures, it is unlikely that noise pollution impacts will cause an impact on the settlement or long-term impacts on marine life.

5.3.2 Marine Water Quality

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 and reclamation activities, including the construction of temporary sand bed. 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.

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Construction activities require the use of fuel. Accidental spillage of fuel, particularly during transportation or offloading, and the construction of shore protection measures, can lead to marine water contamination.

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.

5.3.3 Marine Biodiversity

Construction stage of the project is expected to have direct and indirect adverse impacts on the flora and fauna of the marine environment. The impact foot prints and affected live coral zones are identified in Figure 5.2.

Direct impacts on marine biodiversity will include permanent loss of benthic organisms, habitats and coral colonies within the dredging foot print, due to direct removal at the channel site or burial during the sand bed construction. The most significant impact on marine biodiversity will be felt on the seagrass bed, where all seagrass within the foot print will be removed and other areas within a 100m radius will be significantly affected. The sedimentation is also likely to temporarily discourage the turtles to use the site. The areas where seagrass are removed is to be intended affect the seagrass bed in that zone so that it could be used for tourism purposes, particularly for the transit hotel.

In addition, lagoon bottom is a habitat for certain organisms such as worms, molluscs, amphipod etc. which are important food sources for bottom feeders such as certain species of fishes. However, it has been found elsewhere that lagoon bottom dwelling organisms re-establish within few months after such disturbances.

Baseline assessments showed that there is no live coral cover on the dredging foot print. However, there are a number of corals on the reef slope within the vicinity of the project site.

A significant amount of siltation and sedimentation of the lagoon waters is anticipated. Similarly, increased turbidity of the lagoon water is expected. These factors will cause adverse impacts such as smothering of corals and reduced light penetration to the seagrass, coral and benthic communities. Under normal circumstances, corals have a self-cleansing mechanism and can withstand a certain rate of sedimentation. Hence, detrimental impacts such as reduced coral growth and recruitment rate and decreased visibility can be short term effects. However, if the sedimentation exceeds the rate at which corals can self-clean then it may lead to serious detrimental impacts such as coral mortality and alteration of habitat and species composition within the lagoon.

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The resilience and survival rates of coral colonies against sedimentation also depend on the type of coral. Branching corals such as Acropora are more tolerant to sedimentation while plate and brain corals are more sensitive to sedimentation and sand can be trapped more easily. The lagoon faros and the atoll lagoon ward side coral colonies contain a large proportion of plate corals which are likely to bleach if buried for more than 48 hours. The live colonies within the deep lagoon are most at risk. Fortunately they are located away from the dredge site.

Fish population is often affected when their gills are stuck by suspended sediments. There will be loss of habitat for a large portion of the juvenile species. Most species will stay out of the harm’s way by moving to safer areas of the lagoon. However, the juveniles may lose their habitats and this may affect the fish population in the short term.

Frequent short-term exposures or chronic long-term exposure to sedimentation and turbidity will result in mortality for many coral species. If moderate levels of impacts on a coral reef persist for particularly long periods of time, the coral reef may undergo changes in diversity, with more sensitive coral species gradually being replaced by more tolerant ones. This may result in an overall reduction in the biodiversity of the coral reef. The risk and severity of impacts from dredging activities on coral reefs are directly related to both the intensity and duration of impacts causing stress.

Degradation of the water quality due to spillage of substance used in construction and construction waste, and sedimentation due to disturbance of bottom sediments and generation of sediment plumes would degrade the habitat of marine organisms. In particular, significant increases in the level of suspended and bedded sediment within the water column for a prolonged period will alter the habitat and adversely affect the living organisms at the site.

Foraging behaviour of fishes may be impeded by turbid conditions as well; gills maybe 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.

In addition, sedimentation is 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.

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5.3.4 Changes in Hydrodynamics

Dredging and reclamation works generally result abrupt changes to coastal hydrodynamics. Based on experience from similar projects, it is anticipated that the local current patterns around deepened borrow areas are likely to get stronger. The proposed borrow areas used source sand for the sand beds will also result in an increase in the flow depending on the season SW monsoon will have the strongest effect.

Dredging from immediate lagoon area may attract more sediment to be transported offshore to adjust for the steep profile. Further, the dredged area is likely to act as sediment sink and therefore lagoon conditions may take a number of years to stabilise against the prevailing conditions.

The placement of the dredge waste within the vicinity of the channel may cause some of the eroded sediments to settle in the channel, thereby reducing the depth of the channel. However, the channel is to be deepened to -4 m and is sufficient for the next 5 years considering the distance of the dredge waste area to the site and the predominant east to west current flow pattern.

5.3.5 Coastal Processes

Dredging and reclamation, even if temporary, often results in an equivalent response from coastal processes and subsequently the island beach.

The proposed channel is unlikely to cause any significant coastal change as the site is located too far from the island.

The proposed temporary sand beds are likely to alter nearshore processes and will be localized within a 300 m radius of the site. The temporary bed will act as a groyne there by putting erosional pressure on one side of the groyne depending on the monsoon season. However, it has to be noted that this bed has been present on the site for over 5 years. The extension of the bed is unlikely to have significant abrupt changes.

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Figure 5.2: Marine impact footprint

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5.3.6 Impact on unique habitats

There are no listed marine Environmentally Sensitive Sites near Maafaru.

The loss of seagrass patches is a concern but the direct removal of the seagrass bed is less than 1% of the bed.

5.3.7 Impacts from waste

Waste is also expected from the dredging activities, particularly access dredge material and larger coral material.

5.4 Impacts on the Natural Environment during Operational Phase

5.4.1 Coastal Processes

As noted in the construction stage, the newly disposed dredge waste may find its way back into the channel in the long-term due to erosion and deposition. However, given the east-west current patterns, the distance between the channel and dredge disposal site and the dredge depth of -4 m, it is unlikely that the deposition will be significant enough to make the channel unusable.

The temporary sand bed may continue to function as a groyne as long as it stays.

5.5 Impacts on the Socio-economic Environment

5.5.1 Impacts on accessibility and transportation

The widened channel is going to improve island access due to the wider and deep channel. The wider channel will allow easy two way traffic through the channel, which is necessary given that the airport will significantly increase the marine traffic into Maafaru Reef. It is planned to use the existing channel as the main entrance for the airport as well.

5.5.2 Impacts on Safety

The widened channel will reduce the risk of vessel grounding significantly, improving the safety of marine traffic through the channel.

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5.6 Mitigation Measures for Significant Adverse Impacts

5.6.1 Air and Noise Pollution

Project activities that can lead to air and noise pollution are operation of equipment and machinery, including excavators and trucks

Mitigation Measures

 Properly tune and maintain all vehicles and machinery  Conduct construction activities during daytime to minimize nuisance to humans and fauna  Monitor all occupational areas to ensure noise levels do not exceed WHO standards

No additional costs.

5.6.2 Increased Turbidity and Sedimentation

Dredging and sand bed construction associated turbidity and sedimentation is the most significant impact of this project.

Mitigation Measures

 All reclamation works should be undertaken during calm conditions and preferably before SW monsoon .  Excavator movement should stick to predefined routes for travel along the reef.  All staff involved in dredging and reclamation works must be briefed on the sensitivity of the reef and the mitigation measures proposed in the EIA report.  Supervise all construction activities to ensure that large vehicles and excavators do not move outside the project boundary, and ensure the reef flat leveling is restricted to the required area only.  All dredging works should be completed within the defined timeframe including removal of bunds and temporary sand beds. Contingency measures for damaged equipment should be in place to avoid delays due to mechanical failure of equipment.

5.6.3 Contamination of Marine Water

Construction activities that can lead to contamination marine waters include:

 Accidental spillage of construction materials

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Mitigation Measures

 Oil, solid waste & hazardous waste handled carefully & transported in sealed containers.  Keep spill cleanup materials readily available  Train workers in spill prevention and cleanup, and designate responsible individuals  Properly tune and maintain all machinery  Carry out construction activities user the supervision of a suitably experiences person

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

5.6.4 Change in Coastal Processes

Issues related to the disposed dredge waste making its way to the channel will remain a concern Similarly the temporary sand bed acting as a groyne has been identified as a potential challenge during construction and operation.

Mitigation Measures

 Ensure that the channel is located a safe distance away from the channel. The recommended distance is 80-100 m.  Complete works in shortest time period possible  Orient the dredge waste disposal site perpendicular to the reef as identified in the site plan.  Remove the temporary sand bed as soon as the main access channel of the airport is constructed or when the channel is no longer necessary for large barge landings.

Construction activities are included in the contract value and are the contractor’s responsibility.

5.6.5 Marine Habitat Destruction

1. Clearly mark the dredging and reclamation boundaries, and ensure no dredging, reclamation works are conducted outside these boundaries. 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

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6 ALTERNATIVES

6.1 “No-project” Alternative

The no project option takes the following into account.

 The existing channel remains as it is and will not be widened  The temporary sand bed will not be constructed

The comparison of benefits of each alternative is provided in the table below.

Table 6.1 Summary of no project alternative

Option Advantages Disadvantages  Channel will not be  Environmental impacts of  Proponent will be unable to widened dredging will be avoided deliver the material to the  No development costs to the island at a reasonable cost. Proponent  Cost of transporting in smaller vessels or unloading to smaller vessels outside the lagoon and transferring to the island will be very high  Project work schedule may be severely affected.  An opportunity for Maafaru community to improve access with no additional cost is lost  Heavy marine traffic for airport use can create safety risks due to the narrow width of existing channel. Channel may have to be widened in the future anyway.

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Option Advantages Disadvantages  Additional temporary  Environmental impacts of  Landing the barge directly sand bed will not be dredging will be avoided to the island is not possible constructed due to shallow depth.  Using the harbour as a landing area may damage the harbour  Delays in the project for loading and unloading

The environmental problems associated with dredging are always substantial. However, the channel for all practical purposes, has been deemed (by the contractor and proponent) too narrow and shallow to transport the material and equipment required to build an international airport. Moreover, the high passenger traffic estimated during airport operations may require widening the channel in the future. Thus, the widening the channel is preferred.

Constructing the temporary sand bed also involves marine life impacts and potential shoreline impacts. However, the sand bed was constructed by the previously developer as a landing site. Extending the existing sand bed involves far less impacts and smaller foot print then dredging a channel to access the site. The identified site for the sand bed is also earmarked for seagrass removal as part of the original project. Using the island harbour is not an option as it could damage the newly constructed quawall and would require heavy vehicles to shuttle through the settlement. Thus, the extending the sand bed is preferred.

Further alternatives to enhance the project components are considered in the next subsections.

6.2 Alternative Dredge Waste Disposal Options

Storing dredge waste within proximity of the channel has been identified as a potential issue with chances of sediment seeping back into the channel. The volume of sand expected to go into the channel is small, if the proper design guidelines given in this EIA is followed. However, the following alternatives can be considered.

Option 1: Use it for sand bed construction

The removed material can be used for sand bed construction rather than the dredging with in the lagoon for bed construction. This will require loading the material on to a barge and shuttle between the dredging site and sand bed construction site. The main advantage of this option is that additional dredging is avoided by reusing the dredge waste. The environmental impacts on

Prepared by: CDE Consulting Page|91 EIA for the proposed Outer Reef Maintenance Dredging Project in Maafaru Island, Noonu Atoll the dredge waste disposal foot print will be reduced and any potential sediment seeping back into the channel will be avoided.

The disadvantages of this option are:

1. Using a barge to shuttle between the two sites is time consuming and expensive. It may take up to a month to transport the material back and forth with the currently proposed equipment. 2. The volume of sand resulting from dredging is 30,000 cbm while the sand required for the sand bed is 3000. The excess sand will still have to be disposed. 3. The material placed for sand bed will need to disposed once the bed is demobilized. If there is no dredge whole in the lagoon (as is the case when dredging immediately next to the sand bed), it will require to be transported somewhere else again. 4. The material brought in from the channel site is expected to be contain larger proportion of coral rubble compared to what is found at the sand bed site. Placement of the rubble material may alter the condition of the lagoon bed even once removed.

Thus, given the mismatch between dredge waste generated from the channel and material required of the sand bed, and logistical costs of transporting the material to the sand bed site, this option is not preferred.

Option 2: Reuse for reclamation on the airport side

Another option to reuse the channel dredge waste is to use them for backfilling or land reclamation. As noted in the original EIA, there is a requirement for 220,000 cbm of sand to backfill the low lying areas of the island and for reclamation on the runway end. The original proposal is to source the material from designated borrow sites and proposed channels. Figure 6.1 provides the original dredging and reclamation map as presented in the Maafaru Airport EIA (2017).

The material available from the channel will be ideal for land reclamation on the runway end, which requires about 73,000 cbm.

As in Option 1 the main advantage of this option is that additional dredging is avoided by reusing the dredge waste and an important component of the project. The environmental impacts on the dredge waste disposal foot print will be reduced and any potential sediment seeping back into the channel will be avoided.

The main disadvantage of this project will be the cost of shuttling the material back and forth and impacts on the project time frame. This issue of timing can be reduced by stockpiling the

Prepared by: CDE Consulting Page|92 EIA for the proposed Outer Reef Maintenance Dredging Project in Maafaru Island, Noonu Atoll material next to the channel and complete the channel works first. The material can be transported to the island at a more practical pace.

The material is likely to contain large percentage of rubble and may therefore not be suitable for backfilling on the island. However, it is well suited for reclamation on site A or C (See Figure 6.1).

Environmental impacts of reclamation and required mitigation measured are addressed in detail in the original EIA and do not require further assessment in this EIA.

Option 3: Stock pile sand on Maafaru settlement

The Island Council indicated that they are willing to receive the dredge material from the channel and reuse it for road levelling and backfilling requirements on the island. They would prefer to stock pile the sand near the habour site (site yet to be identified by Council). The advantages and disadvantages are similar to Option 2 above.

The proponent was presented with the alternatives and they are in favour of implementing Option 2 subject to cost considerations. Therefore, the alternative option of reusing the dredge waste from the channel to reclaim Maafaru Island airport side as proposed in the original EIA is preferred in this EIA.

6.3 Alternative options to land barge

The following options to land the barge on the island can be considered.

Option 1: Dredge the entrance new channel

New entrance channels have been proposed for the project in the original EIA (See Figure 6.1). It is possible to dredge one of these channels and use it for the barge to access the island. The main advantage of this option is that it will reduce the affected foot print by concentrating dredging in areas that are necessary.

The main disadvantages are:

1. Channel dredging will be undertaken at a later date and timing for initial mobilization and transport of equipment will not match. This will result in a delay in the project. 2. The channels proposed have been designed for light craft vessels and therefore will require adjustments for a 30ft width barge to access. This in turn results in unnecessary dredging.

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Option 2: Use island harbour

Using island harbour or boat yard option is an option and will reduce the dredge footprint. However the disadvantages are numerous:

1. It will require shuttling heavy machinery through the settlement. 2. It will affect island transport activity as barge unloading will take space and time. 3. Noise and aesthetic impacts will be substantial on the community 4. Roads will be affected due to heavy machinery use. 5. Habour quay walls could be damaged.

Thus, the least disruptive and fasted option is to extend the existing sand bed. Environmental impact foot print for this option is also limited and within the originally planned foot print. The originally proposed option is preferred.

6.4 Alternative Channel

During consultations with the Council, it was revealed that they would like to explore the option of a second channel north of the existing channel. The main reason being the presence of three patch reefs (giri) in front of the channel on the atoll lagoon side. While these reefs do not directly limit the use of the channel, the approach to the channel is affected (see Figure 1.4), particularly during night travel. The Council is concerned with the high marine traffic especially during night can lead to an accidental grounding.

This is a valid concern and the issue was put to the Contractor as well. The Contractor noted that their barge can access the channel with no safety concerns since there is a 180 m distance between the patch reefs and the channel.

The issue was also put to the Proponent but they were of the opinion that may not be able to consider an alternative channel under this project due to the high costs and time construction. They also raised the point that the channel has been used for many years.

From a practical perspective, the patch reefs also provide protection for the channel entrance against strong SW monsoon waves.

Nonetheless, the following alternative channels have been considered and is presented in Figure 6.2.

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Option A - North side channel

The north side channel is located away from the patch reefs and is closest to the Maafaru Island Habour. The length is about 425 m. The main disadvantage for this project is that travel distance to airport increases.

Option B – South Side channel

The south side channel is also located away from the patch reefs and is closest to the airport. The length is 405 m.

If the proponent is to decide on an alternative channel it is the South Side channel as it is closest to the airport.

However, as noted above, this project may not have the resources to construct a new channel. Thus, this project will proceed with the originally proposed option of widening the channel.

6.5 Sedimentation control measures

Table 6.2 indicates the alternative methods for the sediment containment.

Table 6.2 Summary of sediment containment measures

Type of Advantages Disadvantages Measure Bund Wall Effective method for containing High impact on marine environment when sediments creating and removing the bund. Durable Impractical when dredging channels or Cost effective constructing sand beds.

Work during low Suitable for smaller projects and High impact from turbidity and tide and calm mitigation measures themselves sedimentation. conditions involve impacts. Silt screens Durable Large quantities not locally available Easy to handle Not cost effective for small projects Environmentally friendly Sometimes ineffective in SW monsoon conditions May damage coral reefs during deployment.

Bund walls have been recommended in the original EIA for reclamation works but is not recommend when dredging channels. It may create more damage during bund construction given that the dredging works itself is expected to only last 3 weeks. Silt screens may not be cost

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Figure 6.1: Original dredging, reclamation and back filling plan (Maafaru Aiport EIA, 2017)

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Figure 6.2: Alternative channels Prepared by: CDE Consulting Page|98 EIA for the proposed Outer Reef Maintenance Dredging Project in Maafaru Island, Noonu Atoll

7 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.

It has to be noted that there is an overall EMP for the airport project. This EMP must be incorporated into the overall plan before implementation. The purpose of this plan is to comply with the EIA regulations which required to create a separate EIA for this activity, even though it is part of the original airport development project.

7.1 Environmental Management System

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

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

The environmental management strategy is demonstrated in the following figure.

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Commitment to environmental regulations, policies and guidelines

Environmental Management Plan (EMP)

Implementation of EMP

Improvements to Corrective and EMP preventative actions Monitoring EMP

Review of EMP

Figure 7.1: Environmental Management Strategy flow diagram 7.2 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.

7.2.1 Project proponent

 Execution of all project activities  Preparation of EMP

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 Detailed designs of island  Monitoring of the project activities  Submission of annual environmental monitoring reports as required by the EPA

7.2.2 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 8 of this report)

7.2.3 Environmental Protection Agency

 Review environmental monitoring report  Intervention in the event of a breach in environmental permit conditions

7.3 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.

7.4 Reporting

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

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

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Figure 7.2: Environmental Management Plan for construction and operation phase

Environmental Protection Agency Project proponent Environmental consultant

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

Preparation of draft environmental report

Submission of report Annual environmental monitoring report finalized

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Table 7.1: Environmental management plan for construction and operation phase

Responsible Activity Management measures Timing party Training of staff All construction workers and project management staff provided with information Proponent & Before and contractors on general environmental issues, compliance with environmental permits and EMP. commencement of Environmental construction All staff involved with environmental monitoring provided with training in Consultant activities environmental monitoring procedures.

Documenting All non-conformances to the environmental permit conditions, observed during Proponent & Continuous during non- monitoring will be documented. construction phase conformances Environmental and corrective Necessary corrective actions and preventative actions will be identified consultant actions Corrective actions implemented, with systematic follow ups to ensure effectiveness of these measures

Managing marine Complete works in shortest time period possible Contractor Continuous during environment construction phase impacts Prepare contingencies for equipment failure.

Carry out work in low tide hours, calm condition

Carry out work in SW monsoon, if possible

Control of water Oil, solid waste & hazardous waste handled carefully & transported in sealed Proponent Continuous during contamination containers. construction phase

All paints, lubricants, and other chemicals used on site stored in a secure and bunded location

Keep spill clean-up materials readily available

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Responsible Activity Management measures Timing party Properly tune and maintain all machinery

Carry out construction activities user the supervision of a suitably experiences person

Regular visual inspection of surrounding marine environment for waste

Coastal process Remove temporary sand beds as soon as its purpose is fulfilled Proponent Continuous during impact construction phase minimization Carry out work in low tide hours and in calm condition Complete works in shortest time period possible

Occupational Implement health and safety precautions described in Section 2.6.4 Proponent Continuous Health Impact throughout construction and management operation phase

Supervision of Assign suitably experienced and qualified personnel to supervise the entire project Proponent Before project activities and ensure that all activities are carried out with minimal adverse impact on the commencement of environment the project

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8 ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING PLAN

8.1 Introduction

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

There is an existing monitoring plan for the project. The plan presented in this assessment must be combined with the original EIA monitoring plan for implementation.

8.2 Objectives of the Monitoring Plan

The main objectives of the monitoring plan are:

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

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

3) To eliminate or reduce environmental costs

8.3 Before construction

The monitoring assessments prescribed in Table 8.1 are required before construction, if the construction activities begin 12 months after this EIA.

8.4 Construction Phase Monitoring Plan

Table 8.2 below summarizes the key aspects of the construction phase monitoring plan. The table indicates the methodology, frequency and estimated cost for each monitoring attribute that will be required for the proposed project.

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

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1. Daily monitoring to ensure that the cleared areas and other construction processes are not creating any significant dust nuisance for the local environment. 2. Daily monitoring of vehicle refuelling and repair should be undertaken to ensure that these exercises are carried out on hardstands and to ensure that they are done properly. This is to reduce potential of soil contamination from spills. The site supervisor will conduct spot checks. 3. Daily inspection of site clearance activities to ensure that the proposed construction plans are followed. 4. Monitor and ensure that approved suppliers and sources of local materials used.

8.5 Operating Phase Monitoring Plan

Operational phase monitoring program will be carried out for a period of 2 years from the date of commencement of airport operations. Table 8.3 provides the schedule for operational phase monitoring

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Table 8.1: Monitoring Schedule for pre-construction stage (if required)

Monitoring Indicator Methodology Locations and Frequency Applicable Est. Total Cost attribute samples standards (MVR)*

Water Quality Temperature, On-site testing / SW5 and SW6 Once prior to the Maldives EPA 2,500 (Marine) Salinity, pH, Total Laboratory commencement of standards Suspended Solids, Analysis construction Turbidity, Nitrate, activities Phosphate, BOD

Bathymetry Depth Sonarmite and Sand borrow areas, Once prior to NA 10,000 echo sounder and reclamation commencement of site construction activities

Coral Reef Health Percentage of live Photo Quadrat and Marine Transect Once prior to Maldives EPA 6,000 coral cover, and Fish Census locations: T1, T2, commencement of standards fish species construction abundance and activities composition

Erosion and Beach profiles Surveying using Profile locations Once prior to Maldives EPA 10,000 coastal changes level, staff, P1-P15 (refer to commencement of standards compass and D- original EIA) construction GPS activities

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Beach line (at high D-GPS tracks Entire island Once prior to Maldives EPA 12,000 tide) and along the beach commencement of standards vegetation line construction activities

*Does not include logistics, and consultant’s fees.

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Table 8.2: Monitoring Schedule for construction stage

Monitoring Indicator Methodology Locations and Frequency Applicable Est. Total Cost attribute samples standards (MVR)*

Temperature, Weekly during Salinity, pH, dredging, 7500 (monthly) On-site testing / Water Quality Nitrate, Phosphate, reclamation, and Maldives EPA Laboratory SW5 and SW6 (Marine) BOD, Turbidity, shore protection standards Analysis works. Total Suspended Solids

Sedimentation Sedimentation Sediment Traps Marine Transect Every 14 days Maldives EPA 5000 (monthly) Rate Locations: T1, T2 during standards construction period.

Bathymetry Depth Sonarmite and Channel area Once after the NA 10,000 echo sounder completion of dredging works

Coral Reef Health Percentage of live Photo Quadrat and Marine Transect Once upon Maldives EPA 6,000 coral cover, and Fish Census locations: T1, T2, completion of standards fish species dredging, abundance and reclamation, and shore protection

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composition works

Erosion and Beach profiles Surveying using Profile locations Once upon Maldives EPA 10,000 coastal changes level, staff, P1-P15 completion of standards compass and D- dredging, GPS reclamation, and shore protection Beach line (at high D-GPS tracks Entire island works Maldives EPA 12,000 tide) and along the beach standards vegetation line

*Does not include logistics and consultant fees

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Table 8.3: Monitoring Schedule for operation stage

Monitoring Indicator Methodology Locations and Frequency Applicable Est. Total Cost attribute samples standards (MVR)

Water Quality Temperature, On-site testing / SW 5 and SW 6 Bi-annually during Maldives EPA 12,000 (annual) (Marine) Salinity, pH, Laboratory operation phase standards Nitrate, Phosphate, Analysis Turbidity, Total Suspended Solids

Coral Reef Health Percentage of live Photo Quadrat and Marine Transect Once annually for Maldives EPA 9,000 (annual) coral cover, and Fish Census locations: T1, T2 two years standards fish species abundance and composition

Erosion and Beach profiles Surveying using Profile locations Bi-annually for Maldives EPA 10,000 coastal changes level, staff, P1-P15 two years standards compass and D- GPS

Beach line (at high D-GPS tracks Entire island Maldives EPA 12,000 tide) and along the beach standards vegetation line

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8.6 Monitoring report

A detailed environmental monitoring report is required to be compiled and submitted to the Ministry of Environment yearly based on the data collected for monitoring the parameters included in the monitoring plan given in the EIA. This report can form subsections in the Monitoring Report to be submitted under the original EIA. This report may be submitted to the relevant Government agencies in order to demonstrate compliance. If required, however, a monitoring report for the proposed work phase may be prepared and submitted to the Ministry of Environment. The report will include details of the site, strategy of data collection and analysis, quality control measures, sampling frequency and monitoring analysis and details of methodologies and protocols followed. In addition to this more frequent reporting of environmental monitoring will be communicated among the environmental consultant, project proponent, the contractors and supervisors to ensure possible negative impacts are mitigated appropriately during and after the project.

8.7 Cost of monitoring

Estimated environmental monitoring cost of pre-construction stage (if required) is MVR 22,000.

Estimated monthly environmental monitoring cost for Construction Phase is MVR 62,500

The estimated annual environmental monitoring cost during operation is MVR 86,000.

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

8.8 Commitment to monitoring

The proponent is fully committed to undertake the monitoring programme given in this chapter (see Appendix J).

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9 STAKEHOLDER CONSULTATIONS

Stakeholder consultations for this EIA were undertaken from 4th-13th February 2018. Consultations were held with the following stakeholders:

 N. Maafaru Island Council  Regional Airports  Island community of N. Maafaru  Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure

In each consultation, stakeholders were given a brief introduction of the project and asked about their views, concerns and recommendations about the project. Discussion of the meetings is summarized in sections below.

9.1 Maafaru Island Council

Date: 4th February 2018 Venue: Everlast Café (Maafaru) Time: 16:00

A brief information of the project was given by the team from CDE at the start of the meeting, and the discussions and outcomes of this meeting is given below.

Summary of Discussions

 The council already aware of this project and has been in contact with the contractors of the project on a daily basis. Since several locals are working at the airport site, the proposed project is also well known within the community.  The drawings and locations for the project was also developed in consultation with the council. During the consultations, the council did suggest to make a new channel further north of the existing channel (instead of widening the existing channel) to avoid the 3 patch reefs located near the entrance of the existing channel, if this was feasible for the contractor. However, since the patch reefs pose no restrictions to the contractor, contractor prefers to widen the existing channel, as it is more feasible.  The main expectation of the council to have the existing channel deepened and widened allowing easier access for both locals and the airport project developers. The council believe the existing channel has always been a bit difficult to use and has become very shallow over the years.  In addition to the multiple dinghies on the island, the channel is heavily used by local ferries (within the atoll) as well as Male’ Ferries and a single cargo boat operating on the island.

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 The airport project currently employees over 15+ locals from the island with multiple sources of income opportunities being generated for locals in terms of housing and food services to the expatriate workers.  The project is likely to generate a large amount of sand as dredge waste. The council wishes to give priority to the developers to use the sand as they are carrying it out at their own expense. However, if they do not wish to use the sand, they would like to stockpile the sand on the island (the empty areas near the harbour area) to be used for levelling roads and to give to locals who wish to carry out construction activities.

Table 9.1: List of persons consulted from Maafaru Island Council

# Name Designation Office Address Mobile 1 Abdul Maajid Council Maafaru Island Council AailaaVehi 9869915 Ali President 2 Ahmed Asst. Director Maafaru Island Council Karishma 9877547 Badheeu 3 Musthafa Council Maafaru Island Council Mars 9722008 Adam Member

Follow-up actions/Recommendations;

 If the proponent decides not to reuse the material for airport side reclamation (see Section 6.2), it is recommended to stock pile the material on settlement side near the harbour at a site designated by the Island Council.  Contractors and council to communicate each other on relevant matters of this project.

9.2 Regional Airports- Ministry of Tourism

Meeting with Regional Airports was held on 12th February 2018 at 11:00 am over the phone with Mr. Saamee Ageel. The focus of this meeting was to understand the rationale behind some of the decisions taken regarding the project location and design aspects. Additionally, questions were asked about the alternative options identified in the EIA and requests by the council. Below is a summary of the discussion of the meeting and the contact details of the official consulted.

Contact Details:

Mr. Saamee Ageel

Deputy Director General

Regional Airports- Ministry of Tourism

[email protected]

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Summary of Discussions:

 Mr. Saamee explained that channel widening is required to allow the contractors barge to access the island to unload rocks, material and equipment arriving for the airport. He also believes that the channel may be too narrow for the operations stage when traffic increases and yachts and luxury vessels are required to access the airport.  Mr. Saamee is in agreement to use the alternative option of transporting dredge waste to airport side for reclamation works, as a substantial quantity of sand is required.  Mr. Saamee identified that he will have to look into the possibility of creating a new channel, but acknowledged that it would be difficult to add a component that has high financial implications on the project.

Follow-up actions/Recommendations;

- Alternative option of transporting sand dredged from the channel to the airport side is recommended in this EIA.

9.3 Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure (MHI)

Meeting with MHI was held on 13th February 2018 at MHI at 9:30 hrs. Environment Analyst at the infrastructure department of MHI Ms.Nafha Aujaz represented the ministry during this meeting. Additional components of Maafaru airport development project were briefed and the representative was asked if the project has any overlaps with the ongoing projects of MHI, and whether MHI has any concerns and/or recommendations regarding the proposed activities. Contact details of Ms.Nafha and summary of discussions of the meeting is provided below.

Contact details:

Ms.Nafha Aujaz

Environment Monitoring Units

Infrastructure Department

Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 3004110

Summary of Discussions:

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 It was informed that MHI has no works planned for the proposed channel or the existing sand bed, hence there are no overlaps between the current project and the ongoing projects of MHI at Maafaru Island.  No additional permits are required from MHI for the proposed works.  It was pointed out that there might be potential uses of the dredge waste for the island public. Making the dredge material available for use by Maafaru island or using this material for backfilling and other works of airport project itself, is one way to minimize impacts of dredge waste disposal in the lagoon.  MHI requested to provide a final out survey of the channel to the Ministry, so that the infrastructure of the island can be aligned.

Follow-up actions/Recommendations;

- Alternative option for dredge waste disposal has been recommended in this EIA.

9.4 Consultation with Island community of Maafaru

Date: 5th February 2018 Venue: Maafaru Island Time: 08:00-12:00

Door-to-door consultations were carried out on Maafaru island, and a brief information of the project was given to each member who was interviewed. A total of 18 members of the public were interviewed in the process. As seen in the interview discussions and the discussions with the council, the public is also well aware of this project and is looking forward to it..

Overall, public members of N. Maafaru were very welcoming of this project as it is likely to benefit the entire community. Everyone supported the idea of widening the channel as it would make travel easier (especially during the night). According to some, it is very difficult to find the channel at night as it is very far away from the island (over a kilometre). They did not have much concerns regarding the project, but a few members (4 persons) expressed their concern to move the channel further north to avoid the sea mounds in front of the existing channel. However, they also understood as this is a contractor financed project, whatever feasible is acceptable for the community. None of the members interviewed wished to note down their names and addresses during the process. This could be due to the sensitive nature of the airport project (12 years history) or the political turmoil happening in the country at the time.

Follow-up actions/Recommendations;

- The council to officially update the residents of Maafaru, and answer relevant questions to this development as they are in regular contact with the developers of this project.

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10 Potential Data Gaps and Assessment Limitations

10.1 Gaps in Information

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

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

 Absence of long-term site specific or even regional data (at least 2 years). Most critical data include current, wave and terrestrial modification history.  Absence of historical and long-term records on reef and lagoon environment.  Absence of detailed topographic model

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

10.2 Uncertainties in Impact Prediction

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

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11 Conclusions

This report has evaluated the environmental impacts and potential mitigation measures for the maintenance dredging and temporary sand bed construction on Maafaru Island, Noonu Atoll. This project forms part of the overall Maafaru International Airport Development Project. An EIA was approved for the main project and the activities proposed in this EIA are additional changes required for the project construction phase. Usually these activities are addressed in an EIA Addendum, but a full EIA has been necessitated as the proposed additional work site is outside the required 500 m distance from the main project site. This EIA submission seeks environmental approvals to start construction work.

The main additional works proposed are to widen and deepen the existing outer reef entrance and to build a temporary sand bed to unload construction material and equipment on to the airport site. The changes are required to allow the Contractor’s barge to access the lagoon and the airport site for unloading. The existing reef entrance and lagoon depths are not suitable for the proposed barge to access.

The proposed channel widening activity offers significant benefits to the local community and the airport. The channel is narrow and with the increase in traffic during airport operations, a widened channel offers a welcome development to the community, especially since the harbour redevelopment project is also ongoing on the island.

The proposed sand bed offers no specific benefit to the community but is meant to be removed.

To-date 3 EIAs have been prepared for this project for different proponents. This report takes note of the progressive changes that have taken place over the life of the project since 2009. The most recent report was approved 2 months ago. Hence, some of the baseline data used in this report uses the latest EIA results especially closer to the island. New assessments were conducted on the outer channel area.

Most components of the proposed developments are generally in conformance to the laws and regulations of the Maldives. Dredging and Reclamation Approval is required from EPA.

The two proposed work sites have been heavily modified in the past. The outer channel was dredged before and the proposed location for the temporary sand bed has been used to create a similar temporary sand bed by the previous developer. Thus the foot print of the impact is largely limited to previously dredged areas.

Significant impacts associated with dredging and reclamation activities are present in this project. However, given the work is being undertaken on previously dredged foot prints and due

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One of the most critical impacts highlighted in the assessment is the potential for dredge waste to create further environmental issues, including continued turbidity due to erosion and deposition in the dredged channel. After discussions during Scoping Meeting, Island Council meeting and Proponent consultations, it has been recommended to avoid disposing the dredge waste on the side of the channel and to transport them back to the Airport Construction site to be used for reclamation. This will help reduce the overall reclamation foot print as envisaged in the original EIA.

The Island Council also sought to address the possibility of creating a new channel instead of widening the existing channel. This was due to the presence of three patch reefs in front of (but 180 m away from) the channel. The Contractor and the Proponent identified that it may be difficult to accommodate a new component to the project that has significant budget implications.

Alternative options have been evaluated for the most significant impacts. Options to avoid the temporary sand beds, create a new channel and to dispose channel dredge waste was considered. Among these a new option to dispose the dredge waste preferred, as explained above.

An Environment Management Plan (EMP) and Monitoring Plan (MP) are presented in this report that addresses the new activities. However, the EMP and MP presented here must be combined with the programmes presented in the Original EIA.

Overall the community of Maafaru, and island council were welcoming of this project. It offers benefits to the community and the airport during operations stage. Thus, this report concludes that the project should be implemented on grounds of very high socio-economic benefits.

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REFERENCES

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

CDE Consulting (2014) EIA for the proposed Airport Development Project at Maafaru, Millenium Capital Private Limited.

CDE Consulting (2017) EIA for the proposed International Airport Development Project at Maafaru, Regional Airports.

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

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

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

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

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

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

National Bureau of Statistics, 2014: Population and Housing Census 2014, Preliminary Results, Male’, National Bureau of Statistics.

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

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

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EIA for the proposed Outer Reef Maintenance Dredging Project in Maafaru Island, Noonu Atoll

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

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APPENDIX A – Terms of Reference

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P.P'? = .0. Pt- et rPy e...t, c-2rrt.-- Environmental Protection Agency EPA 9 -*..,:. No: 203-EIARES/4481201817 Terms of Reference for the Environmental lmpact Assessment for the Proposed Widening of Outer-reef Ghannel of Maafaru lsland, Noonu Atoll

The fof lowing is th€ Terms of Reference (ToR) following the scoping meeting held or QtLEelllgL?U for the proposed widening of outer-reef entrance channel of Maafaru lsland, Noonu Atoll. The proponent of the project is Regional Airports. Ministry of Tourism.

While every attempt has been made to ensure that this ToR addresses all of the major issues associated with development proposal, they are not necessarily exhaustive. They should not be interpreted as excluding fiom considemtion maners deemed to be significant but nol incorporated in them, or matters currently unforeseen, that emerge as important or significant from environmental studies, or otherwise, during the course ofpreparation ofthe EIA report. l. Introduction and rationale - Describe the purpose of the project and, if applicable, the background information of the project/activiry and the tasks already completed. Objectives ofthe development activities should be specific and ifpossible quantified. Define the arrangements required for the environmental assessmenl including how work carried out under this contract is linked to other activities that are canied out or that is being canied out within the project boundary. Identiry the donors and lhe institutional arrangements relevant to this project.

SlqdXjlgg - Submit a minimum 43 size scaled plan with indications ofall the proposed infrastructures. Speci! the agreed boundaries of the study area for the environmental impact assessment highlighting the proposed development location and size. The study area should include adjacent or remote areas, such as relevant developments and nearby environmentally sensilive sites (e.g. coral reef, sea grass, mangroves, marine protected areas, special birds site, sensitive species nunery and feeding grounds).

Scooe of work - Identifo and number tasks ofthe project including preparation, construction and decommissioning phases.

a) Task l. Description of the proposed pmject - Provide a full description and justification ofthe relevant parts of the proposed works, clearly labeled site plan of the project boundary using maps at appropriate scales where necessary. The following should be provided (all inputs and outputs related to the proposed activities shall be justified): b) Description ofthe proposed works: o Dredging ofthe outer reef: widening the existing channel (Design details ofthe reefenrance, location and size of reef entrance (s) on a map, justification for the selection of this location and design, method and equipment used for dredging, including description of positioning system, depth control system and operational conrol procedures, duration of dredging activity) . Placing removed dredge waste on side of channel to create small islet (Location and size of disposal area(s) on a map, justification for the selection ofthis location, quantity, quality and characteristics of fill material required, melhod and equipment used for levelling and profiling, justification for selecting the methods and equipment. erosion m itigation options)

o Extending existing sand bed on the island by 300 m to a depth suitable for barge access o Removal oftemporary access beds upon completion ofworks. c) Emergency plan in case ofspills (diesel, grease. oil)

Environmenta Protection ASency *t i'-:;i; ii.i'.tttt:

Gre€n Bu'ldrn6, 3 " Floo., Handh!va.eefrnEUn .r.!:-/ -rr.',)r- ,t'

Male'. Rep. oi M.ld,ves,20392 :03q:;:j,;?;t j:ja Te l+9601 333 5949 [+950] 333 s9sr Emalr: sererar al@epa gov.mv www.epa.Eov Fax: l+9601 333 5953 1ot 1 webrlte: mv iart; Pit'', =

*i ; : t'*t tii r rrrrrrrrffi p[ 9 Envrronmental rro,.",,on ng.n.y f Trsk 3. Description of the environment - Assemble, evaluate and present the environmental baseline study/data regarding the study area and timing ofthe project (e.9. monsoon season). Identi$ baseline data gaps and identi! studies and the level of detail to be canied out by consultanl. Consideration of likelv monitoring requirements should be bome in mind durine survev planning. so that data collected is suitable for use as a baseline. As such all baseline data must be presented in such a way that they will be usefully applied to future monitoring. The report should outline detailed methodology of data collection utilized. Reference should be made to the original EIA in presenling the findings for this task.

All data must be collected as per the requirements ofthe EPA Data Collection Guidelines (published on uurr.epa.gor.nrr). The report should outline detailed methodology ofthe 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 points, reef transects, and vegetation transects for posterior data comparison. Information should be divided into lhe categories shown below:

Climate . Temperature, rainfall. wind, waves, evaporation rates (including extreme conditions) o Risk ofhurricanes and storm surges; Geoloev and eeomomhology o Offshore/coastal geologr and geomorphology (use maps); . Bathymetry (bonom morphology) ofthe proposed dredge areas (use maps); o Seasonal and Historical pattems ofcoastal erosion and accretion on Maafaru Island, and . Characteristics of seabed sediments to assess direct habitat destruction and turbidity impacts during dredging works:

Hydroeraph),/hvdrodynam ic s (use mans) o Tidal ranges and tidal currents; . Wave climate and wave induced currents; o Wind induced (seasonal) currents: . Seawater quality measuring: temperature, pH, salinity, nitrate, phosphate, turbidity and Total Suspended Solids

Ecolosv o ldenti& marine protected areas (MPAS) and sensitive sites such as breeding or nursery grounds for protected or endangered species (e.g. coral reefs, spawning fish sites, nurseries for crustaceans or specific siteJ for marine mammals, sharks and turtles). Include description of commercial species, species with potential to become nulsances or vector. . Benthic and fish community monitoring around the island; o Landscape integriry

Absence of facilities in the country to carry out the water quality tests will not exempt the proponent from the obligation to provide necessary data.

Tssk 4. Legislstive and regulatory considerations Identiry the peninent legislation, regulations and standards, and environmental policies that are relevant and applicable to the proposed project, and identiry the appropriate authority jurisdictions that will specifically apply to the project.

Legal requirements:

. Concepl Plan Approval by Island Council, and Regional Airpons

Gt>I Envtronmental P.otectron Agency

o G.een Buildhg, 3 Floor, Handhuvare€t nSun

Male, R€p. ol Ma rdives, 20392 Ter: [+960] 333 5949 I+9601 333 5951 Email: secrela,'[email protected] Fax: t+9601 333 5953 2ol2 webster www epa.tov.mv IU'P : a{il* *t ; : t'*t ;i; r rr rr r rrrffi p[ 9 Envrronmentar Protecrron og.".y f Task 5. Potential imprcis (environmental and socio-cultural) of proposed project, incl. all stages - The EIA report should identiS all the impacts, direct and indirect, during and after construclion, and evaluate the magnitude and significance ofeach. Panicular attention shall be given to impacts associated with the following:

ImDacts on the natural environment . Changes in flow velocities/directions, resulting in changes in erosion/sedimentation pattems, which may impact shore zone confi guration/coastal morphology; Loss of marine bottom habitat, both in the dredge area, resulting in (temporary) loss of bottom life, which may impact fish stocks and species diversity and densify ofcmbs, shellfish etc.; Sediment dispersal in water column (turbidity at the dredging site (overflow), and disposal site), possibly resulting in changes in visibility, smothering ofcoral reefs and benthic communities and affecting fish and ihellfish erc.; Impacts of noise disturbance; Impacts on unique or threatened habitats or species (coral reefs, sea turtles etc.), and

Construction related hazards and risxs Pollution ' of the natural environment (e.g. oil spills, discharge of untreated waste water and solid waste, including construction waste); o Risk ofaccidents and pollution on workers and local population, and Impacts on ' social values, norms and beliefdue to presence ofworkers ofdredging company on local population.

The methods used to identif' the significance ofthe impacts shall be outlined. one or more ofthe following methods must be utilized in determining impacts; checklists, matric;s, overlays, networks, expert systems and professional judgment. Justification must be provided to.the selected methodologies. ih. ,"pon should outline the uncertainties in impact prediction-and also outline all positive and negativ€/short ani long-term impacts. Identiry impacts that are cumulative and unavoidable.

Task-6' Altertratives to proposed project Describe altematives including the "no action option" sho.trldbe presented. Determine the best practical environmental oplions. Altemarives examiried for the proposei prolecilrrat wouta acnieve the same objective including the "no action alternative". This should include but not limitea io itemative borrow sites, altemative equipmenVmachinery_ for dredging, alternative disposal sites and alternative containment measures. The repon should highlight how the dredging and ieclamation locaiion was determined. All altematives must be compared according to intemational standards and commonly accepted standards as much as po.riuie. i1"-*rpanson should yield the prefered altemative for implementation.-Mitigation options should be specified for each component proposed project. of the

Task 7' Mitiqation and mrnagement of negative impacts - Identis possible measures to prevent or reduce significant negative impacts to acceptable levels. These will include both environmental and socio-economic mitigation measures with panicular aftention paid to sedimentation control and future changes in .ousur p-"..."s. iJiiig"i"" measures lo avoid or compensate habitat destruction caused by dredging will have io be considerid, e.g. temporai-sediment control structues' coastal protection structures to reduce erosion, Joral reconstruction and MpA riplacement areas. Measures for both construction and operation phase shall be identified. cost the mitigation r"urur"., lluipr*nt and resources required to implement those measures. The confirmation of commitment of the developer to implement the proposed mitigation measures shall also be included. An Environmental management plan for the proposed prqecl, identirying responsible persons, their duties and commitments shall also be given. In cases whire'impacis are unavoidable arrangements to compensate for the environmenlal effect shall be given.

Task 8' Development of monitoring Plsn ldentiry the critical issues requiring moniloring to ensure compliance to mitigation measures and present impact management and monitoring plan for coastal modification, beach morphology, sediment movement around the island. monitoring will bi submined to the EpA to evaluate the damages during construction, after project -Ecological completion ind every lhree months thereafter, up to one y;;;;1"" on a yearly

Green Build nC, 'Floor. 3 HandhulareeHinEun tt-, ,i),t ,'.r:tj ,tj,ji.;- ili Male. Rep. of Mald ves,20392 Tel l+9601 333 s949 lrg6ol i33 5951 Emarl:[email protected]''j:3i Fax l+9601 333 5953 3of3 webslte www.epa.Eov.mv +:,t; F ue/. 9W basis for five years after. The baseline study described in task 2 of section 2 of this document is required for data comparison. Detail of the monitoring program including the physical and biological parameters for monitoring, cost commitment fiom responsible person to conduct monitoring in the form of a commitment letter, detailed reporting scheduling, costs and methods ofundertaking the monitoring program must be provided. . Water quality, especially turbidity; o Sedimentation rates on nearby coral reefs, benthic system and seagrass beds; . Condition ofthe sensitive ecosystems and marine resources; . Re-colonization ofthe benthic organisms in the borrow areas; . Erosion and accretion; o Environmentally sound site clearance; o Environmentally sound removal ofdredging and other equipment inctuding construction materials, and

Task 9, Stakeholder consultation, Inter-Agency coordinetion and public/Nco participation) - Identiry appropriate mechanisms for providing information on the development proposal and its progress to all stakeholdeB, govemment authorities such as Environmental Protection Agency, Island Council, govemment agencies, NGOS, and members of the general public. Major stakeholder consultation shall include; l. Island Council 2. General Public of Noonu Maafaru 3. Ministry ofHousing and Infrastructure and focus on presentation- The environmental impact assessment report, to be presented in digital format, will be concise by summaries lf;iEiii;uiton ental issues. lt will contain the findings, conclusions and recommended actions supported assessment report of-the data collected and citations for any references used in inter?reting those data. The environmental Impact Assessment ,"iti U" org-ir"O according to, but not necessarily limited by, the outline given in the Environmental Regulations, 2012 and relevant amendments

within 6 months fiom Timeframe for submittins the EIA report - The developer must submit the completed EIA report the date ofthis Term ofReference.

Environmenta Protectron Ag€ncy .i.t Green Buildin& 3'" Floor, HandhuvareeHintun tt-. .t;-t ';/:tj ,13.;t'i-

Male, Rep. or Maldivet,20392 Emalr,[email protected] j:): Teli l+9601 333 5949 I+9601 333 5951 Websfie: ww.€pa.8ov.mv ia,:; Fax: I+9601 313 5953 4ofil EIA for the proposed Outer Reef Maintenance Dredging Project in Maafaru Island, Noonu Atoll

APPENDIX B – Site Plan

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73°27'45"E 73°27'50"E 73°27'55"E 73°28'0"E 73°28'5"E

Legend

Existing channel

Proposed New Channel

Sediment Disposal Site Existing channel N " N " 0 Lagoon 0 1 ' 1 ' 0 0 5 ° 5 ° 5 5 InnerReefLine

!

! µ

Proposed Channel Length: 407 m N " Width: 40 m N " 5 ' 5 ' 0 0 5 ° Area: 16,000 sq m 5 ° 5 Dredge Depth: -4 m MSL 5 Estimated Volume: 30000 cbm N " N " 0 ' 0 ' 0 0 5 ° 5 ° 5 5 Dredge Waste Disposal Site Area: 8800 sq m Elevation: 2.0 m MSL Volume: 30000 cbm Meters

0 25 50 100 Maafaru Island, Noonu Atoll Proposed Airport Project Maafaru Reef Outer Channel Maintenance Dredging Project PROJECTION: Transverse Mercator N " N " 5

5 (UTM Zone 43 N); HORIZONTAL DATUM: WGS84; 5 ' 5 ' 9 9 4

° VERTICAL DATUM: Hulhule Tide Gauge 4 ° 5 5 Map version: 31/01/2018 Surveyed and Prepared by: CDE Consulting, Maldives 73°27'45"E 73°27'50"E 73°27'55"E 73°28'0"E 73°28'5"E 73°28'5"E 73°28'10"E 73°28'15"E 73°28'20"E 73°28'25"E 73°28'30"E 73°28'35"E 73°28'40"E Legend -1

- Airport boundary 1

4

- Sand Borrow Area

Additional Sand Bed -1 -1 N " N " 0 0 4 ' 4

' Airport Boundary 9 9 4 ° 4 ° 5 -

1 5

-5 Aiport Buildings

-3 Rundway Stip & Apron

5 - Jetty -4 N "

- N "

5 2 5 3 ' 3

' Shore Protection 9 9 4 ° 4 ° 5

Borrow Site 5 Area: 2700 sq m Reclamation Areas

Dredge Depth: -1 to -3 m MSL ! -1

2 Contour 1m ! - µ -2

2

- Vegetation Line 05 August 2017

- N " 2 N " 0 0 3 ' 3

' High Tide Line 05 August 2017 9 Proposed Temporary Sand Bed

1 9 4 - ° 4 ° 5 Dimensions: 300 m x 6 m x +1.2 m 5 1 Estimated volume: 2500 cbm - Low Tide Line 05 August 2017

Lagoon - 2 - 1- -11 InnerReefLine -1 N " N " 5 5 2 ' 2 ' 9 9 4 ° 4 ° 5

1 5 -

-1 -1 N " N " 0 0 2 ' 2 ' 9 9 4 ° 4 ° 5 5

Meters N " N " 5 5 1 ' 1 ' 9 9 4 ° 4 0 25 50 100 ° 5 5 Maafaru Island, Noonu Atoll Proposed Airport Project Temporary Sand Bed

PROJECTION: Transverse Mercator N " N "

0 (UTM Zone 43 N); HORIZONTAL DATUM: WGS84; 0 1 ' 1 ' 9

9 VERTICAL DATUM: Hulhule Tide Gauge 4 ° 4 ° 5

5 Map version: 05/02/2018 Surveyed and Prepared by: CDE Consulting, Maldives 73°28'5"E 73°28'10"E 73°28'15"E 73°28'20"E 73°28'25"E 73°28'30"E 73°28'35"E 73°28'40"E EIA for the proposed Outer Reef Maintenance Dredging Project in Maafaru Island, Noonu Atoll

APPENDIX C – Approvals

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EIA for the proposed Outer Reef Maintenance Dredging Project in Maafaru Island, Noonu Atoll

APPENDIX D – Work Plan

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2. Project Schedule and Life Span

The work plan proposed activity is presented in Table 1 below. In general, the works are expected to be completed within 3 weeks. The preparatory works are expected to take 2 days as the equipment are already on site.

Table 1: Work plan for additional dredging work

Time Line (Days) No Activity Description 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 Preliminaries 1 Mobilization Construction

activities 1 Dredging Outer reef Constructing 2 temporary sand bed Finalising 1 All other works 2 Demobilization

EIA for the proposed Outer Reef Maintenance Dredging Project in Maafaru Island, Noonu Atoll

APPENDIX E – Survey Locations

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73°27'30"E 73°27'45"E 73°28'0"E 73°28'15"E

Legend N " N " 5 Existing channel 5 1 ' 1 ' 0 0 5 ° 5 ° 5 5 Bathymetry 2 T

! ! C13

! ! ! Currents ! A

! ! ! A ! !

! ! !. Marine Water Samples

! ! ! ! ! ! Marine Transects ! W5 !

!. ! ! ! ! Timed Swims ! ! C15 ! ! Lagoon ! ! A ! ! C!16 ! Coral Reef ! ! A ! 1 T ! !

! Outer reef line

! !

! W6 !

!. ! N " N

C14 " 0 ' 0 ' 0 0 5 ° 5

! ° 5 A 5 µ

C11 A!

73°27'30"E 73°27'45"E 73°28'0"E 73°28'15"E

Marine Transects Bathymetry Currents Meters A! Point_ID X Y SiteID X Y Site_ID X_Start Y_Start X_Start Y_Finish P1 73.461274 5.839262 C13 73.4657 5.83662 0 50 100 200 T1 73.4631 5.83442 73.463 5.83399 P2 73.468276 5.836505 C14 73.4672 5.83328 Maafaru Island T2 73.464 5.83686 73.4641 5.8373 P3 73.466324 5.83183 C15 73.4623 5.83489 Outer Reef Dredging Component Marine Water Samples P4 73.459255 5.834736 C16 73.4647 5.8344 Maafaru Airport Development Project code X Y Survey Locations W4 328978 643692 W5 73.4627 5.83551 PROJECTION: Transverse Mercator (UTM Zone 43 N); HORIZONTAL DATUM: WGS84; VERTICAL DATUM: Hulhule Tide GauAg!e Map version: 12/02/2018

!. Surveyed and Prepared by: CDE Consulting, Maldives

!

!

!

!

!

!

!

!

! !

! !. !

A! !

!

!

! !

A!

! !. A

A!

A!

A!

A! EIA for the proposed Outer Reef Maintenance Dredging Project in Maafaru Island, Noonu Atoll

APPENDIX F – Water Quality Results

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EIA for the proposed Outer Reef Maintenance Dredging Project in Maafaru Island, Noonu Atoll

APPENDIX G – Bathy Chart

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73°27'35"E 73°27'40"E 73°27'45"E 73°27'50"E 73°27'55"E 73°28'0"E 73°28'5"E

8 -20 -1 N " N

9 " 0 0

2 2 ' 2

- ' 0 Area Not Surveyed (Lagoon) 0 5 ° 5 ° 5

7 5 - 2 2 - 3

-21 5 1 -19 - Legend 4 -19 2 -20 1

2

8 -

-

6 1

1 - -

-17 0

2 1 m contours

- Depth in meters N " N " 5 5 1 ' 1

8 ' 0 0

5 2 °

- 5 ° 5

5 -29.7 -20 6 1 - -19.9 -15 9 - 1 1 7 - 8 9 1 -1 - -19

6 -17

1 -15 -14.9 -10 -1 - 5

-2 1 6 -9.9 -5 -2 1 - - 4 5 -

- 7

7 2 - - - 6 1 -4.9 -4 9 N " N " 0

9 0

1 5 - ' -

1 1 '

0 - 1 0 5

9 ° 5 ° 5 5 -3.9 -3 5 -12 2 7 - 1

5

- -2

- 3

- 6 6 0 - 1 2 - - -2.9 -2

- -3 3

8 - 4 3 - - -1.9 -1 2 -1

3

- -0.9 -0 -10 -10

3

- -7 -4 Reef N " N " 5

' 4

5 5 ' 0 - 1 0 5 - ° 5 ° 5 5 - Lagoon 1 5

- - 1 - 1 7 2 9 4 - 2

-2 0 -2 8 -1

4 -

-1

N - " 1 N

" µ 0

' 8 0 ' 0 0 5 ° 5 ° 5

5 Meters -12 -1 0 -9 -6 -4 -5 0 30 60 120 180

Area Not Surveyed (Atoll Lagoon) Maafaru, Noonu Atoll

2 - Channel Dredging Bathymetry

PROJECTION: Transverse Mercator (UTM Zone 43 N); HORIZONTAL DATUM: WGS84; N " N VERTICAL DATUM: Mean Sea Level (2018) - Male' Airport Tide Gauge " 5 5 5

' All features based on GPS surveys (February 2018) 5 ' 9 9

4 Map version 12-02-2018 ° 4 ° 5 5 Surveyed and Prepared by: CDE Consulting, Maldives

73°27'35"E 73°27'40"E 73°27'45"E 73°27'50"E 73°27'55"E 73°28'0"E 73°28'5"E 73°28'5"E 73°28'10"E 73°28'15"E 73°28'20"E 73°28'25"E 73°28'30"E 73°28'35"E 73°28'40"E N " N " 0 0 5 ' 5 ' 9 9 4 ° 4 ° 5 5

-4 -3 Not Surveyed Legend

2

- Airport Boundary -5 N " N " 5 5 4 ' 4 ' 9

4

9 Vegetation Line Aug 2014 4

- ° 4 ° 5 5 Low Tide Line Aug 2014 -1 Not Surveyed - 1 Contour 1m

4

- Bathymetry -1 -1 Depth m MSL N " N

3 " 0 - 0 4 ' 4 ' 9 9 4 -5.5 - -5.0 ° 4 ° 5 -1 5 -4.9 - -4.0

-3.9 - -3.0

5 - -2.9 - -2.0 N

" - -1.9 - -1.0 N

2 " 5 5 3 ' 3 ' 9 9 4 ° 4 ° 5 5 -0.9 - -0.5 4 - Lagoon -1

2 -2 - Coral Reef

2 - Outer reef line N " N

- " 0

0 µ 2 3 ' 3 ' 9 9 4 ° 4 ° 5 -1 5

1 -

- 2 - 1- -11 -1 N " N Meters " 5 5 2 ' 2 ' 9 9 4 ° 4 ° 5 5 1 - 0 25 50 100 Maafaru Island, Noonu Atoll Not Surveyed -1 -1 Proposed Airport Development Bathymetry PROJECTION: Transverse Mercator (UTM Zone 43 N); HORIZONTAL DATUM: WGS84; VERTICAL DATUM: Hulhule Tide Gauge N "

0 Map version: 12/02/2018 2 ' 9 4 ° Surveyed and Prepared by: CDE Consulting, Maldives 5 73°28'5"E 73°28'10"E 73°28'15"E 73°28'20"E 73°28'25"E 73°28'30"E 73°28'35"E 73°28'40"E EIA for the proposed Outer Reef Maintenance Dredging Project in Maafaru Island, Noonu Atoll

APPENDIX H – CV’s of Consultants

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

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

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

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

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

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

Employment History

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

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

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

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

Ahmed Shaig page 1

Experience in Consultancy

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

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. 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.

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. 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

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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 CURRICULUM VITAE SHAHDHA

Address: Ma.Mahal- 3F, Nikagasmagu Magu, Male’, Maldives NID: A 234112 Telephone: + 960 9700169 Email: [email protected]

Profile

Bachelor of Environments graduate with a major in environmental geography, politics and cultures. Excellent understanding of human-environment relationship, factors contributing to human vulnerabilities and strategies to build human capacity and resilience. Thorough knowledge of sustainable development principles and goals. Skilled in analyzing and assessing complex environmental and development issues and preparation of reports and relevant communication materials. Experienced in working with stakeholders at government, private sector, NGOs and local communities. Passionate about human development and working with community groups to achieve sustainable development goals.

Education

Bachelor of Environments (Major in Environmental Geographies, Politics and Cultures) University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia January 2012-December 2014

Advanced Level Edexcel Examination and Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) Examinations, Center for Higher Secondary Education, Male’, Republic of Maldives. 2007-2009

Cambridge GCE O-level, IGCSE Examinations and Secondary School Certificate (SSC) Examination, H Dh. Atoll School, HDh.Vaikaradhoo, Republic of Maldives. 2004-2006

Employment Record

From March 2015 To : Present Client: CDE Consulting Pvt Ltd Positions held: Sustainable Development Consultant

From: February 2010 To: December 2011 Client: Indhira Gandhi Memorial Hospital Positions held: Clinical Assistant

From: July 2009 To: November 2009 Client: HDh. Atoll School Positions held: Relief Teacher

Professional Development and Memberships:

• Member of University of Melbourne Alumni Association

• Member of Maldives Australia Alumni

• Member of the University of Melbourne Australian Awards Club from September 2013 to December 2014

• Volunteer with Maldivian Red Crescent

• Volunteer with Volunteers for Environment and Social Harmony and Integration (VESHI)

Other Training

• Completed Emergency Response Training conducted by Maldivian Red Crescent from 21-25 August 2016.

• Participated as an observer in the Sixth Regional 3R Forum for Asia and the Pacific from 16th August to 19th August 2015.

• Workshop on knowledge and information sharing on issues and challenges in implementing Water supply and Sewerage projects in Maldives on 13th August 2015

• Endorsement workshop of Maldives Intended Nationally Determined Contributions (INDC)- 10th September 2015

• First National Dialogue on Intended Nationally Determined Contributions (INDCs) of the Maldives- 21st May 2015

• Standard course in First Aid at Faculty of Health Sciences, Maldives College of Higher Education 2010

Achievements

• Awarded Dean’s Honours Award Bachelor of Environments Year Level 3 by University of Melbourne in 2014 • Awarded Australian Development Scholarship in 2011 • Achieved fourth place among the National Top 10 Achievers in the Higher Secondary School Completion Examinations 2009. • Achieved second place among the National Top 10 Achievers in the Secondary School Completion Examinations 2006. • Awarded the Best All Round Student of H Dh. Atoll School in 2006.

Language Skills

Language Reading Writing Speaking English Excellent Excellent Excellent Dhivehi Excellent Excellent Excellent

Computer Skills Experience with Microsoft office word, excel, power point and project

Professional Work Experience

Name of assignment or project: Development of Island Level Waste Management Plans for Islands of Laamu Atoll Year: 2015 Location: Laamu Atoll, Maldives Client: UNOPS- LECReD & CDE Consulting Private Limited Main project features: Preparation of island level waste management plans for the inhabited islands of Laamu Atoll Positions held: Associate Consultant Activities performed: Assisted in preparing methodology, designed questionnaires for household, government institutions, businesses, health care facilities and schools, visited the islands and undertook assessment of existing waste situation, undertook stakeholder consultations, surveyed households, visited Island Waste Management Centers and prepared Waste Management Centers report, prepared existing situation reports, prepared solid waste management plans, researched and contacted waste equipment suppliers, contributed to investment plan preparation.

Name of assignment or project: EIA for the Proposed 25-storey Building of IGMH Year: 2016 Location: Male’, Maldives Client: Indhira Gandhi Memorial Hospital Main project features: EIA for the proposed 25-storey Building of IGMH Positions held: Sustainable Development Consultant Activities performed: Undertook baseline surveys, stakeholder consultations, socioeconomic impact assessment, assessed waste impacts and prepared waste management plan, and contributed to EIA report writing.

Name of assignment or project: EIA for the development of Plots N3-56 and N3-57 under the Proposed 3000 housing units at Hulhumale’ Year: 2016 Location: Huhumale’, Kaafu Atoll Client: Sea Life Global Inc Private Limited Main project features: EIA for the development of Plots N3-56 and N3-57 under the Proposed 3000 housing units at Hulhumale’ Positions held: Sustainable Development Consultant Activities performed: Undertook baseline surveys, stakeholder consultations, and socioeconomic impact assessment, prepared waste management plan, and contributed to EIA report writing.

Name of assignment or project: EIA for the development of Plot N3-55 under the Proposed 3000 housing units at Hulhumale’ Year: 2016 Location: Huhumale’, Kaafu Atoll Client: Sea Life Global Inc Private Limited Main project features: EIA for the development of Plot N3-55 under the Proposed 3000 housing units at Hulhumale’ Positions held: Sustainable Development Consultant Activities performed: Undertook baseline surveys, stakeholder consultations, and socioeconomic impact assessment, prepared waste management plan and contributed to EIA report writing.

Name of assignment or project: EIA for the Proposed Nationwide Submarine Cable by Ooredoo Maldives Year: 2016 Location: Maldives Client: Ooredoo Maldives Main project features: EIA for the Proposed Nationwide Submarine Cable by Ooredoo Maldives Positions held: Sustainable Development Consultant Activities performed: Undertook baseline surveys, stakeholder consultations, and socioeconomic impact assessment and contributed to EIA report writing.

Name of assignment or project: EIA for the Proposed Raffalhuhuraa Resort Development Project at Maifalhu, Kaafu Atoll Year: 2016 Location: Kaafu Atoll Client: Mesa RF Private Limited Main project features: EIA for the Proposed Raffalhuhuraa Resort Development Project at Maifalhu, Kaafu Atoll Positions held: Sustainable Development Consultant Activities performed: Undertook baseline surveys, stakeholder consultations, and socioeconomic impact assessment, assessed waste impacts and prepared waste management plan and contributed to EIA report writing.

Name of assignment or project: EIA for the Proposed Resort Development Project at Huruvalhi Island, Raa Atoll Year: 2016 Location: Male’, Maldives Client: Mr.Amir Mansoor Main project features: EIA for the Proposed Resort Development Project at Huruvalhi Island, Raa Atoll Positions held: Sustainable Development Consultant Activities performed: Undertook baseline surveys, stakeholder consultations, and socioeconomic impact assessment, assessed waste impacts and prepared waste management plan and contributed to EIA report writing.

Name of assignment or project: EIA for the Proposed Land Reclamation and Resort Development Project in Maagaa, North Ari Atoll Year: 2016 Location: North Ari Atoll Client: Big Stone Private Limited Main project features: EIA for the Proposed Land Reclamation and Resort Development Project in Maagaa, North Ari Atoll Positions held: Sustainable Development Consultant Activities performed: Undertook baseline surveys, stakeholder consultations, and socioeconomic impact assessment, assessed waste impacts and prepared waste management plan and contributed to EIA report writing.

Name of assignment or project: EIA for the Proposed Resort Development Project in Miriyandhoo, Baa Atoll Year: 2016 Location: Baa Atoll Client: Miriyandhoo Maldives Resorts Private Limited Main project features: EIA for the Proposed Resort Development Project in Miriyandhoo, Baa Atoll Positions held: Sustainable Development Consultant Activities performed: Undertook baseline surveys, stakeholder consultations, and socioeconomic impact assessment, assessed waste impacts and prepared waste management plan and contributed to EIA report writing.

Name of assignment or project: EIA for the Proposed Resort Development Project in Aluvifushi Island, Dhaalu Atoll Year: 2016 Location: Dhaalu Atoll Client: Ocean Islands Private Limited Main project features: EIA for the Proposed Resort Development Project in Aluvifushi Island, Dhaalu Atoll Positions held: Sustainable Development Consultant Activities performed: Undertook baseline surveys, stakeholder consultations, and socioeconomic impact assessment, assessed waste impacts and prepared waste management plan and contributed to EIA report writing.

Name of assignment or project: EIA for the Proposed Land Reclamation and Resort Development Project in Rasdhoo Madivaru, North Male’ Atoll Year: 2016 Location: North Male’ Atoll Client: Veli Madivaru Private Limited Main project features: EIA for the Proposed Land Reclamation and Resort Development Project in Rasdhoo Madivaru, North Male’ Atoll Positions held: Sustainable Development Consultant Activities performed: Undertook baseline surveys, stakeholder consultations, and socioeconomic impact assessment, and contributed to EIA report writing.

Name of assignment or project: EIA for the proposed Hulhule’-Male’ Bridge Project Year: 2015 Location: Male’ & Hulhule’, Maldives Client: Ministry of Housing and Environment, Maldives Main project features: EIA for the proposed Hulhule’-Male’ Bridge Project Positions held: Sustainable Development Consultant Activities performed: Undertook baseline transport and traffic surveys, contributed to designing methodology and survey questionnaires for public consultation, conducted stakeholder consultations, contributed to assessment of waste impacts and preparation of waste management plan and contributed to EIA report writing.

Name of assignment or project: EIA for the proposed test drilling For Hulhule’-Male’ Bridge construction project Year: 2015 Location: Male’ & Hulhule’, Maldives Client: Ministry of Housing and Environment, Maldives Main project features: EIA for the proposed test drilling For Hulhule’-Male’ Bridge construction project Positions held: Sustainable Development Consultant Activities performed: Undertook baseline surveys, stakeholder consultations, and socioeconomic impact assessment and contributed to EIA report writing.

Name of assignment or project: EIA for the proposed redevelopment of Nasandhura Palace Hotel, Male’ Year: 2015 Location: Male’, Maldives Client: Nasandhura Palace Hotel Investments Private Limited Main project features: EIA for the proposed redevelopment of Nasandhura Palace Hotel, Male’ Positions held: Sustainable Development Consultant Activities performed: Undertook baseline surveys, stakeholder consultations, and socioeconomic impact assessment, Contributed to assessment of waste impacts and preparation of waste management plan and contributed to EIA report writing.

Name of assignment or project: EIA for the proposed construction of a 9-storey building at the compound of ADK Hospital, Sosun Magu, Male’, Maldives Year: 2015 Location: Male’, Maldives Client: ADK Hospital Private Limited Main project features: EIA for the proposed construction of a 9-storey building at the compound of ADK Hospital, Sosun Magu, Male’, Maldives Positions held: Sustainable Development Consultant Activities performed: Undertook baseline surveys, stakeholder consultations, and socioeconomic impact assessment, assessed waste impacts and prepared waste management plan and contributed to EIA report writing.

Name of assignment or project: EIA for the proposed tourist development project at Madivaru Island, Kaafu Atoll Year: 2015 Location: K. Madivaru, Maldives Client: Shuaz Investment Private Limited Main project features: EIA for the proposed tourist development project at Madivaru Island, Kaafu Atoll Positions held: Sustainable Development Consultant Activities performed: Contributed to writing the EIA Report

Name of assignment or project: EIA for the proposed land reclamation and resort development project in Ithaafushi Reef, South Male’ Atoll Year: 2015 Location: Kaafu Atoll, Maldives Client: Sumaiyya Holdings Private Limited Main project features: EIA for the proposed land reclamation and resort development project in Ithaafushi Reef, South Male’ Atoll Positions held: Sustainable Development Consultant Activities performed: Contributed to writing the EIA Report

Name of assignment or project: EIA for the proposed resort development in Bodukaashihuraa, Alifu Dhaalu Atoll, Maldives Year: 2015 Location: Alifu Dhaalu Atoll, Maldives Client: Millenium Capital Management Private Limited Main project features: EIA for the proposed resort development in Bodukaashihuraa, Alifu Dhaalu Atoll, Maldives Positions held: Sustainable Development Consultant Activities performed: Undertook baseline surveys, undertook socioeconomic impact assessment and contributed to EIA report writing.

Name of assignment or project: EIA for the Development of a Tertiary Hospital at Hulhumale’ Year: 2015 Location: Hulhumale’, Maldives Client: Tree Top Investment Private Limited Main project features: EIA for the Development of a tertiary hospital at Hulhumale’ Positions held: Sustainable Development Consultant Activities performed: Undertook baseline surveys, undertook socioeconomic impact assessment and contributed to EIA report writing.

Name of assignment or project: EIA of the Shore protection project at HDh.Kulhudhuffushi Year: 2015 Location: Haa Dhaalu Atoll, Maldives Client: Capital Investment and Finance & Ministry of Environment Main project features: EIA of the Shore protection project at HDh.Kulhudhuffushi Positions held: Sustainable Development Consultant Activities performed: Designed consultation methodology and questions, undertook socioeconomic impact assessment and contributed to EIA report writing.

Name of assignment or project: EIA of the Shore protection project at B.Thulhaadhoo Year: 2015 Location: Baa Atoll, Maldives Client: Capital Investment and Finance & Ministry of Environment Main project features: EIA of the Shore protection project at B.Thulhaadhoo Positions held: Sustainable Development Consultant Activities performed: Designed consultation methodology and questions, undertook stakeholder consultations and socioeconomic impact assessment and contributed to EIA report writing.

Name of assignment or project: EIA of the channel dredging and beach replenishment activities at Canareef Resort Maldives, Addu City, Maldives Year: 2015 Location: Addu City, Maldives Client: Canaries Resort Private Limited Main project features: EIA of the channel dredging and beach replenishment activities at Canareef Resort Maldives, Addu City, Maldives Positions held: Sustainable Development Consultant Activities performed: Designed consultation methodology and questions, undertook stakeholder consultations and socioeconomic impact assessment and contributed to EIA report writing.

Name of assignment or project: EIA for Resort Development at Kudadhoo Island, Lhaviyani Atoll Year: 2015 Location: Lhaviyani Atoll Maldives Client: Chamapalars Private Limited Main project features: EIA for Resort Development at Kudadhoo Island, Lhaviyani Atoll Activities performed: Designed consultation methodology and questions, undertook stakeholder consultations and socioeconomic impact assessment and contributed to EIA report writing

Name of assignment or project: Disaster Management Plan for Maldives Explorer Yatch Year: 2015 Location: Maldives Client: Capital Travel and Tours Private Limited Main project features: Development of a disaster management plan for Maldives Explorer Yatch Positions held: Sustainable Development Consultant Activities performed: Undertook disaster risk assessment and prepared disaster management plan

Name of assignment or project: Maldives Visitor Survey February 2015 Year: 2015 Location: Maldives Client: Ministry of Tourism Main project features: Understanding tourist composition, reasons for visiting and tourist perception of Maldives. Positions held: Enumerator Activities performed: Supervised survey enumerators and undertook enumeration.

Name of assignment or project: Maldives Democracy Survey 2015 Year: 2015 Location: Maldives Client: International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES) Main project features: Assessment of the state of democracy in Maldives Positions held: Enumerator Activities performed: Supervised survey enumerators and undertook enumeration.

Name of assignment or project: Coastal Vulnerability and adaptation assessment of North Ari Atoll Year: 2015 Location: North Ari Atoll Maldives Client: International Union for Conservation on Nature ( IUCN) Main project features: assessment of coastal vulnerability and adaptability of North Ari Atoll Positions held: Sustainable Development Consultant Activities performed: Designed survey questionnaires for government agencies and institutions

Name of assignment or project: Environmental Monitoring of Hulhule’-Male’ Bridge Project Year: 2016- present Location: Male’, Maldives Client: CCCC Second Harbour Engineering Company Limited Main project features: Environmental monitoring data collection as per the monitoring plan in the EIA report and preparation of monitoring reports Positions held: Consultant – In charge of monitoring and reporting solid waste Activities performed: site visits, consultations with client and stakeholders about management of bridge construction waste, advising client on construction and domestic waste management at work sites and accommodation areas, preparation of waste audit methodology and preparation for quarterly waste audit Name of assignment or project: Environmental and Social Performance Annual Monitoring of Shangri- La’s Vilingili Resort & Spas 2014 Year: 2015 Location: Addu Atoll, Maldives Client: Shangri-La’s Vilingili Resort & Spa Main project features: Annual monitoring of environmental and social parameters at Shangri-La’s Vilingili Resort & Spa Positions held: Consultant – In charge of monitoring and reporting solid waste, noise and air pollution Activities performed: Site visits, data collection, data analysis, report writing and advising the client

Name of assignment or project: Environmental Monitoring of Vilamendhoo Island Resort & Spa Year: 2015 Location: Alifu Dhaalu, Maldives Client: Vilamendhoo Island Resort & Spa Main project features: Annual monitoring of environmental parameters at Vilamendhoo Island Resort & Spas Positions held: Sustainable Development Consultant Activities performed: Undertook solid waste monitoring, advice and reporting and beach and coastal area surveying

Name of assignment or project: Environmental Monitoring of Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives Year: 2015 Location: Maldives Client: Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives Main project features: Environmental Monitoring of Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives Positions held: Sustainable Development Consultant Activities performed: Undertook beach and coastal surveying and reportin

Volunteer Work

Name of assignment or project: Introducing Green Healing Hospital Concept at ADh. Atoll Hospital Year: 2016 Location: Alifu Dhaalu Atoll, Maldives Client: ADh.Atoll Hospital & Volunteers for Environment and Social Harmony and Integration Main project features: Waste audit of ADh.Atoll Hospital Positions held: Consultant (volunteer) Activities performed: Prepared methodology, visited the hospital and undertook assessment of existing waste situation at the hospital, undertook stakeholder consultations, conducted hospital waste audit, prepared waste audit report and presentation

Name of assignment or project: Environment Day 2015 Beach Cleanup at Lh.Kurendhoo Year: 2015 Location: Lhaviyani Atoll, Maldives Main project features: Beach cleanup and waste awareness for public of Lh.Kurendhoo Positions held: Consultant (volunteer) Activities performed: Took the initiative of a beach cleanup activity at Kurendhoo on the occasion of environment day, coordinated with island council to arrange the activity and mobilize the public, lead a team effort with other volunteers to get sponsors, lead the activity and conducted an awareness session on solid waste management

Certification:

I, the undersigned, certify that to the best of my knowledge and belief, these data correctly describe me, my qualifications, and my experience.

______Date: 20 October 2016

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

Mohamed Faizan

WORK ADDRESS

Address: H. Orchidmaage, 4th Floor, Orchidmaage, 20095, Malé, Maldives Email: [email protected] Tel: +960-3312514

EDUCATION

University of Malaya (Malaysia) Master of Technology (Environmental Management) August 2012 – October 2014

International Islamic University Malaysia (Malaysia) Bachelor of Biotechnology (Honors) July 2006 – June 2010

Centre for Higher Secondary Education (Maldives) GCE Advanced Level Certificate June 2002 – June 2004 Subjects: Biology, Chemistry and Mathematics Higher Secondary Education Certificate Subjects: Dhivehi, Islam

EMPLOYMENT RECORD

CDE Consulting (Maldives) Senior Environmental Consultant July 2014 – Present Key Roles & Plan, organize and undertake Responsibilities: environmental baseline assessments, environmental impact assessments and environmental monitoring programs Supervisors: Dr. Ahmed Shaig, Director, Environmental Services Email: [email protected]

Mohamed Faizan Page 1 of 9 CDE Consulting (Maldives) Environmental Consultant June 2010– July 2012 Key Roles & Assist in preparation of Responsibilities: Environmental Impact Assessment reports; undertake environmental baseline surveys and monitoring. Supervisors: Dr. Ahmed Shaig, Director, Environmental Services Email: [email protected]

Integrated Climate Change Strategy (Project funded by UNDP/GEF, and implemented by the Ministry of Environment and Energy, Maldives) Project Assistant February 2005– April 2006 Key Roles & Assist project manager in organizing Responsibilities: workshops and field visits related to the projects. Assist in financial management and reporting for the project. Prepare monthly newsletter to update all stakeholders on project activities. Helped in development of climate change awareness materials. Supervisors: - Dr. Mizna Mohamed, Former ICCS Project Manager Email: [email protected] - Ms. Lubna Moosa, Former ICCS Project Manager Email: [email protected]

CONSULTANCY EXPERIENCE

Client: Vita Heights Company Limited Title: Environmental Monitoring for the dredging and resort May 2017 - ongoing development project at Bolidhuffaru Reef, Kaafu Atoll Contributions: - Plan, organize, and co-ordinate environmental monitoring surveys

- Seawater quality, sedimentation, and coral reef assessments

- Prepare environmental monitoring reports

Mohamed Faizan Page 2 of 9 Client: Vita Heights Company Limited Title: EIA for the proposed dredging component of the resort April 2017 development project at Bolidhuffaru Reef, Kaafu Atoll Contributions: - Plan, organize, and co-ordinate baseline survey

- Baseline environment, and impact assessment

Client: Fushifaru Investments Private Limited Title: First Addendum to the EIA prepared for the proposed March 2017 resort development in Fushifaru Island, Lhaviyani Atoll Contributions: - Marine baseline environment assessment, and impact assessment

Client: Ministry of Environment and Energy Title: EIA for the proposed Water Supply System in Rasdhoo March 2017 Alif Alif Atoll Contributions: - Marine baseline environment assessment

Client: Nakachaa Huraa Development Private Limited Title: EIA for the proposed land reclamation and resort March 2017 development project at Nakachaa Huraa, North Male’ Atoll Contributions: - Plan, organize, and co-ordinate baseline survey

- Baseline environment, and impact assessment

Client: Ithaafushi Investments Private Limited Title: Second Addendum to the EIA prepared for the proposed February 2017 land reclamation and resort development in Ithaafushi Reef, South Malé Atoll Contributions: - Assessment of the marine environment and environmental impacts of the project.

Mohamed Faizan Page 3 of 9 Client: KASA Holdings Pvt Ltd Title: Meeru Island Resort and Spa, Coral Gardening Project January 2017 - Ongoing Contributions: - Design coral gardening project. - Preparation of Environmental Management Plan for the project - Monitoring and reporting

Client: Dredging International Services (Cyprus) Ltd Title: Construction phase environmental monitoring for the January 2017 - Ongoing Emboodoofinolhu Falhu Resort Development Project Contributions: - Plan, organize and co-ordinate Environmental monitoring schedule, and activities. - Seawater quality, sedimentation, and coral reef assessments - Prepare environmental monitoring reports

Client: Mesa RF Private Limited Title: First Addendum to the EIA for the proposed January 2017 Rahfalhuhuraa Resort Development Project At Mai Falhu, Kaafu Atoll Contributions: - Plan, organize, and co-ordinate baseline survey

- Baseline environment, and impact assessment and compile EIA report

Client: Vita Heights Company Ltd Title: EIA for the proposed land reclamation and resort October 2016 development project at Bolidhuffaru Reef, Kaafu Atoll Contributions: - Plan, organize and co-ordinate environmental baseline surveys. - Undertake coral reef assessment - Impacts assessment for of EIA report.

Mohamed Faizan Page 4 of 9 Title: Construction phase environmental monitoring for the May 2016 - Ongoing China-Maldives Friendship Bridge Contributions: - Plan, organize and co-ordinate Environmental monitoring schedule, and activities. - Undertake coral reef monitoring - Prepare environmental monitoring reports

Client: Ooredoo Maldives Title: EIA for the proposed Nationwide Submarine Cable by May 2016 Ooredoo Maldives Contributions: Undertook marine baseline assessments, and prepared marine assessment report and impacts section of EIA report.

Client: MESA RF Private Limited Title: EIA for the proposed Rahfalhuhuraa Resort April 2016 Development Project, at Maifalhu, Kaafu Atoll Contributions: Undertook marine baseline assessments, and prepared marine assessment report. Undertook marine impact assessments.

Client: Big Stone Investment Title: EIA for the proposed land reclamation and resort April 2016 development project in Maagaa North Ari Atoll Contributions: Undertook marine baseline assessments, and prepared marine assessment report. Undertook marine impact assessments.

Client: Ocean Islands Pvt Ltd Title: EIA for the proposed land reclamation and resort April 2016 development project in Maagaa North Ari Atoll Contributions: Undertook marine baseline assessments, and prepared marine assessment report. Undertook marine impact assessments.

Client: Champalars Holdings Pvt Ltd Title: EIA for the proposed tourist resort development at December 2015 Kudadhoo Island, Lhaviyani Atoll Contributions: Undertook marine baseline assessments, and prepared marine assessment report. Prepared the overall EIA Report.

Mohamed Faizan Page 5 of 9

Client: Maldives Inflight Catering Private Limited Title: EIA for the proposed tourist resort development at December 2015 Madifushi Island, Meemu Atoll Contributions: Undertook marine baseline assessments, and prepared marine assessment report. Prepared the overall EIA Report.

Client: Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure Title: EIA for the proposed Malé – Hulhulé Bridge July 2015 Contributions: Undertook marine baseline assessments, and prepared marine assessment report. Prepared the overall EIA Report.

Client: Nasandhura Palace Hotel Investments Private Limited Title: EIA for the proposed redevelopment of Nasandhura June 2015 Palace Hotel Contributions: Undertook marine baseline assessments, and prepared marine assessment report. Prepared the overall EIA Report.

Client: Shuaz Investment Private Limited Title: EIA for the proposed resort development in Madivaru, May 2015 Kaafu Atoll Contributions: Undertook marine baseline assessments, and prepared marine assessment report.

Client: Velaa Private Island Title: EIA for the proposed coral rejuvenation project at Velaa March 2015 Private Island Contributions: Undertook marine baseline assessment surveys, including stakeholder consultations. Prepared and complied the EIA report.

Client: Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort and Spa Title: Coral gardening project Shangri-la’s Villingili Resort and February 2015 Spa Contributions: Undertook baseline coral reef assessment of Shangri-La’s reef. Designed the coral gardening programme. Undertook the EIA for the coral gardening programme.

Mohamed Faizan Page 6 of 9

Client: Malé Water and Sewerage Company Pvt Ltd Title: EIA for the proposed sewerage system project at April 2014 Kanditheem, Shaviyani Atoll Contributions: Marine environment assessment and section for EIA report

Client: Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives Title: EIA for the proposed beach replenishment project in April 2014 Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma, South Malé Atoll Contributions: Marine environment assessment and section for EIA report

Client: Mr. Ibrahim Shazyl, Venture Maldives Pvt Ltd Title: EIA for the proposed sewerage system Maduvvari, Raa February 2012 Atoll Contributions: Undertook the baseline assessment surveys, including stakeholder consultations. Prepared and complied the EIA report

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

Client: Tatva Global Renewable Energy (Maldives) Pvt Ltd Title: EIA for the proposed Solid Waste Management facility at December 2011 Thilafushi Contributions: Undertook marine baseline surveys, and prepared the marine assessment section for the EIA report. Complied the overall EIA report

Client: Bonnavvista (Maldives) Private Limited Singapore Title: EIA for the development of a domestic airport on October 2011 Koodoo, GA Atoll Contributions: Undertook environmental baseline surveys for the EIA, and prepared the Existing Environment chapter for the EIA report.

Mohamed Faizan Page 7 of 9 Client: Ministry of Housing and Environment Title: EIA for the proposed harbor entrance channel dredging August 2011 project in Bodufolhudhoo Island, North Ari Atoll Contributions: Undertook environmental baseline surveys for the EIA, and prepared the Existing Environment chapter for the EIA report and complied the overall EIA report

Client: Mr. Hussain Afeef Title: EIA for the proposed redevelopment Phase I of July 2011 Gasfinolhu Island Resort, Kaafu Atoll Contributions: Undertook environmental baseline surveys for the EIA, and prepared the marine environment section for the EIA report

Client: Ministry of Housing and Environment Title: EIA for the proposed reconstruction of Shaviyani March 2011 Foakaidhoo Harbour Contributions: Undertook environmental baseline surveys for the EIA, and prepared the marine environment section for the EIA report

Client: Department of National Planning Title: Household Income and Expenditure Survey for March 2011 Foreigners Contributions: Lead and organized the survey for 82 households in Malé

Client: Works Corporation Limited Title: EIA for the sewerage system development in N. September 2010 Miladhoo Contributions: Undertook baseline surveys, and prepared the marine environment section

Mohamed Faizan Page 8 of 9 KEY WORKSHOPS, AND TRAININGS ATTENDED

Coral Database Training, organized by Lim Geomatics, Malé, Maldives November 2013

Workshop on Training and Capacity Building in Coral Reef Monitoring May 2012 Identifying Indicators for Regional Adaptation and Resilience, Hikkaduwa, Sri Lanka

PADI Open Water Dive Certification, Malé, Maldives July 2009

South Asia MCPA Managers Training Course June 2008

Regional Workshop on Climate Change Negotiations in South and October 2005 South Asia, Bangladesh, Dhaka

REFERENCES

Dr. Simad Saeed Dr. A. Sasekumar Managing Director Senior Research Fellow (Retired) CDE Consulting University of Malaya Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]

Dr. Ahmed Shaig Director, Environmental Services CDE Consulting Email: [email protected]

Mohamed Faizan Page 9 of 9 Ali Nishaman Nizar G. Dhoores Villa, 20132 06th March 1988 (00) 960 778 5767 [email protected]

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

EDUCATION

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

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

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

EXPERIENCE

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

WORKSHOPS / SHORT-TERM TRAININGS ATTENDED

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

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

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

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

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

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

ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENTS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY Ø Fluent in both writing and reading of Dhivehi (mother tongue) Ø Fluent in both writing and reading of English ALI MOOSA DIDI 4th floor, MA. Rose Villa • Dhevina Magu • Male' • Maldives • 00 960 791-2001• [email protected]

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

Personal

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

Education

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

Employment

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

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

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

俀A Skills

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

俀A

Work Experience

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

References

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

EIA for the proposed Outer Reef Maintenance Dredging Project in Maafaru Island, Noonu Atoll

APPENDIX I – Beach Profiles

The following beach profiles were derived from the original EIA.

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EIA for the proposed Outer Reef Maintenance Dredging Project in Maafaru Island, Noonu Atoll

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EIA for the proposed Outer Reef Maintenance Dredging Project in Maafaru Island, Noonu Atoll

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EIA for the proposed Outer Reef Maintenance Dredging Project in Maafaru Island, Noonu Atoll

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EIA for the proposed Outer Reef Maintenance Dredging Project in Maafaru Island, Noonu Atoll

Beach Profile 15 0.5

0 0 5 10 15 20 25 30

-0.5 Depth(m) -1

-1.5 Distance (m)

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EIA for the proposed Outer Reef Maintenance Dredging Project in Maafaru Island, Noonu Atoll

APPENDIX J – Commitment Letter and Declaration

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EIA for the proposed Outer Reef Maintenance Dredging Project in Maafaru Island, Noonu Atoll

APPENDIX K – Acknowledgement Letter by Noonu Atoll Council

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