ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT for Proposed Coastal Protection Works in AA

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT For Proposed Coastal Protection Works in AA. Ukulhas Island

October 2015

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

TABLE OF CONTENTS

ާސާ ލާ ހު ދާ ސާ ...... 9 1. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ...... 11 2. INTRODUCTION ...... 13 2.1 PROJECT BACKGROUND ...... 13 2.2 PROPONENT AND CONTRACTOR ...... 13 2.3 BACKGROUND TO THE EIA ...... 14 2.4 RATIONALE ...... 14 2.5 EIA SCOPE AND APPROACH ...... 15 2.6 REVIEW OF RELEVANT STUDIES ...... 16 2.7 EIA STRUCTURE ...... 17 2.8 IMPACT PREDICTION AND EVALUATION...... 18 2.9 EIA TEAM ...... 18 3. STUDY AREA ...... 20 4. PROJECT DESCRIPTION ...... 23 4.1 PROJECT LOCATION ...... 23 4.2 JUSTIFICATION ...... 24 4.3 PROJECT OUTLINE...... 25 4.3.1 Project Scope...... 25 4.3.2 Detailed Design ...... 26 4.3.3 Dredging and Reclamation ...... 27 4.3.4 Rock Boulder Revetment ...... 29 4.4 PROJECT INPUT/OUTPUT ...... 30 4.5 PROJECT SCHEDULE ...... 31 4.6 KEY ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND AFFECTED BOUNDARIES...... 33 5. LEGAL, POLICY AND ADMINISTRATIVE FRAMEWORK ...... 34 5.1 APPLICABLE LAWS AND REGULATIONS ...... 34 5.1.1 Environmental Protection and Preservation Act (Law No. 4/93) ...... 34 5.1.2 Maldives EIA Regulation, 2012 ...... 35 5.1.3 Environmental Damage Liabilities Regulation, 2011 ...... 36 5.1.4 Dredging and Reclamation Regulation, 2013 ...... 37 5.1.5 Waste Management Regulation, 2013 ...... 37 5.2 RELEVANT POLICIES ...... 37 5.2.1 National Framework for Development, 2009-2013 ...... 37 Page 2

EIA for Proposed Coastal Protection Works in AA Ukulhas October 2015

5.2.2 3rd National Environmental Action Plan, 2009-2013 ...... 38 5.2.3 Maldives national Strategy for Sustainable Development, 2009 ...... 39 5.2.4 National Solid Waste Management Policy, 2007...... 40 5.3 RELEVANT AUTHORITIES ...... 41 5.3.1 Ministry of Environment and Energy, MEE ...... 41 5.3.2 Environment Protection Agency, EPA ...... 41 5.3.3 Councils ...... 41 5.4 ENVIRONMENTAL PERMITS REQUIRED ...... 42 5.4.1 Dredging and Land Reclamation Approval ...... 42 5.4.2 EIA Decision Statement ...... 42 6. EXISTING ENVIRONMENT ...... 43 6.1 DATA COLLECTION METHODS ...... 43 6.1.1 Geophysical Environment ...... 43 6.1.2 Climatic Environment ...... 43 6.1.3 Coastal Environment ...... 43 6.1.4 Marine Environment ...... 44 6.1.5 Socio-Economic Environment ...... 44 6.1.6 Uncertainties on Data Collection Methods ...... 44 6.2 GEOPHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT ...... 44 6.2.1 Geography ...... 44 6.2.2 Geology ...... 45 6.2.3 Topography and Geomorphology ...... 45 6.3 CLIMATIC ENVIRONMENT ...... 46 6.3.1 Climatic Setting ...... 46 6.3.2 Monsoons ...... 47 6.3.3 Temperature ...... 47 6.3.4 Sunshine and Rainfall ...... 48 6.3.5 Relative Humidity ...... 48 6.3.6 Winds ...... 49 6.3.7 Currents, Tides and Swells ...... 50 6.4 COASTAL ENVIRONMENT ...... 51 6.4.1 Beach and Coastal Area ...... 51 6.4.2 Coastal Dynamics and Erosion ...... 51 6.4.3 Lagoon Bathymetry ...... 58 6.4.4 Currents ...... 59 6.5 MARINE ENVIRONMENT ...... 60 6.5.1 Assessment Locations ...... 60 6.5.2 General Observations ...... 60

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6.5.3 Assessments on Coral Reefs ...... 62 6.5.4 Seawater Quality ...... 64 6.5.5 Marine Protected Areas and Protected Species ...... 65 6.6 SOCIO-ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT ...... 66 6.6.1 Introduction to North Ari Atoll ...... 66 6.6.2 Housing ...... 67 6.6.3 Health and Education ...... 67 6.6.4 Water, Sanitation and Energy ...... 67 6.6.5 Electricity ...... 67 6.6.6 Waste Management ...... 68 6.6.7 Public Infrastructure ...... 68 6.6.8 Transportation ...... 68 6.6.9 Local Economy ...... 68 6.7 ENVIRONMENTAL VULNERABILITY ...... 69 7. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS ...... 74 7.1 METHODS ...... 74 7.1.1 Impact Prediction ...... 74 7.1.2 Assessing Impact Significance ...... 74 7.1.3 Limitations and Uncertainties ...... 76 7.1.4 Justification of the Method Used ...... 76 7.2 IMPACT PREDICTION ...... 76 7.3 DESCRIPTION OF IMPACTS ...... 78 7.3.1 Construction Phase Impacts ...... 78 7.3.2 Post Construction Impacts ...... 82 7.3.3 Indirect Impacts ...... 82 7.3.4 Cumulative Impacts ...... 82 7.3.5 Positive Impacts ...... 82 7.4 IMPACT ANALYSIS AND EVALUATION ...... 83 8. MITIGATION MEASURES ...... 84 8.1 CONSTRUCTION PHASE ...... 84 8.1.1 Mitigation Measures to Reduce Sedimentation ...... 84 8.1.2 Mitigation Measures to reduce Reclamation-related Impacts ...... 85 8.1.3 Mitigation Measures to Reduce Revetment Construction Impacts...... 85 8.1.4 Mitigation Measures to Reduce Construction Vehicle Impacts ...... 86 8.2 POST CONSTRUCTION PHASE ...... 86 8.2.1 Mitigation Measures to Reduce Flooding Risks...... 86 8.3 COMMITMENT ...... 87 9. ALTERNATIVES ...... 88

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9.1 NO DEVELOPMENT OPTION ...... 88 9.2 OTHER ALTERNATIVES ...... 89 9.2.1 Alternative Burrow Sites ...... 89 9.2.2 Beach Replenishment as an Alternative ...... 90 9.2.3 Alternative Coastal Protection Method ...... 90 9.2.4 Breakwater Alternative...... 91 10. STAKEHOLDER CONSULTATION ...... 92 10.1 UKULHAS ISLAND COUNCIL ...... 92 10.2 MEETING WITH INDIVIDUALS FROM THE ISLAND ...... 93 10.2.1 List of Participants ...... 94 11.1 BACKGROUND ...... 95 11.1.1 Aim ...... 95 11.1.2 Objective ...... 95 11.2 MONITORING REPORT ...... 96 11.2.1 Report Format ...... 96 11.2.2 Reporting Frequency ...... 96 11.3 MONITORING PLAN AND COSTS ...... 97 11.4 COMMITMENT ...... 97 12. CONCLUSIONS ...... 98 13. REFERENCES ...... 100 14. APPENDICES ...... 102

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LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 1: Location of Ukulhas Island in AA Atoll ...... 21 Figure 2: Aerial view of Ukulhas Island ...... 22 Figure 3: Study area boundary ...... 22 Figure 4: Area proposed to be replenished and protected by rock revetment ...... 23 Figure 5: Impacts of beach erosion from 2012 (top left) to 2015 (bottom right): ...... 24 Figure 6: Project scope ...... 25 Figure 7: Approved project outline ...... 26 Figure 8: Approved rock revetment plan ...... 27 Figure 9: Burrow sites options and approved burrow site (encircled)...... 28 Figure 10: Option to add extra 10m at the end of the revetment to prevent flanking ...... 30 Figure 11: Key impact boundaries ...... 33 Figure 12: Average temperatures for Regional Met Centers in 2013 (Source: Statistical Yearbook of Maldives 2014) ...... 47 Figure 21: Monthly average sunshine and rainfall for Male’ for 2013 (Source: Statistical yearbook of Maldives 2014) ...... 48 Figure 22: Average wind speed and direction (www.windfinder.com) ...... 49 Figure 23: Male’ tide predictions from 30 Sept – 8 Oct 2015 (www.tide-forecast.com)...... 50 Figure 16: Beach erosion affected area on the northern side ...... 51 Figure 17: Shoreline with beach erosion in 2005 ...... 52 Figure 18: Partial loss of reclaimed area in the north in 2011 ...... 52 Figure 19: Complete loss of reclaimed area in 2013 ...... 53 Figure 20: Extent of erosion in 2014 ...... 53 Figure 21: Damaged sand-cement bag revetment developed in 2005 on the NW side ...... 54 Figure 22: Parts of the damaged sand-cement bag revetment in the lagoon of the northern side ...... 54 Figure 23: Comparison of changes in the shoreline with the recent survey in 2015...... 55 Figure 24: Location of beach profiles from the project area ...... 56 Figure 25: Beach profiles taken in the project area ...... 57 Figure 26: Beach profiles taken in the project area ...... 58 Figure 27: Currents measurements ...... 59 Figure 28: Marine environment survey sites (R = reef survey, V = visual assessment sites, W = seawater quality ...... 60 Figure 29: General characteristics at V1 site with high percent of sand and rubble content. The site is selected as alternative burrow sites...... 61 Figure 30: General characteristics at V2 site with rocks and rubble as well as remains of the 2005 revetment closer to the island ...... 62 Figure 31: Reef composition at surveyed sites from the reef of Ukulhas ...... 62 Figure 32: Main reef characteristics at R1 with higher live coral content ...... 63 Figure 33: Main reef characteristics at R2 with massive coral composition ...... 63 Figure 34: Reef fish assessment results at two locations ...... 64 Figure 35: MPAs found in AA Atoll (encircled) ...... 65 Figure 36: Tsunami hazard zones ...... 69 Figure 37: Tracks of cyclones affecting Maldives from 1877-2004 ...... 71 Figure 38: Tracks of cyclones passed within the scan radius of 500km...... 71 Figure 39: Regions to capture cyclones passing through Maldives for hazard zoning...... 71 Figure 40: 3D view of bathymetry of Maldives (depth in meters)...... 72 Figure 41: Storm surge hazard zones with cyclones affected ...... 72 Figure 42: Maldives seismic hazard zones ...... 73 Figure 43: Alternative burrow sites...... 89 Figure 44: The EIA consultant meeting with member of Ukulhas Island Coulcil ...... 93 Page 6

EIA for Proposed Coastal Protection Works in AA Ukulhas October 2015

TABLE OF TABLES

Table 1: Key project inputs...... 31 Table 2; Key project outputs...... 31 Table 3; Project schedule ...... 32 Table 4: Key meteorological information of Maldives ...... 46 Table 5: Relative humidity recoded from Regional Met Centers for 2013 (Source: Statistical yearbook of Maldives 2014) ...... 49 Table 6: Seawater analysis results ...... 65 Table 7: Population of AA Atoll (Source: Preliminary Results of Population and Housing Census, 2014, DNP) ...... 66 Table 8: Impact significance criteria...... 75 Table 9: Significance rating matrix ...... 75 Table 10: Significance colour scale...... 75 Table 11: Impact prediction table ...... 77 Table 12: Impact analysis table ...... 83 Table 13: List of persons consulted ...... 94 Table 14: Monitoring plan...... 97

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CONSULTANT DECLARATION

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

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

Name: Mohamed Zuhair (EIA01/15)

Signature:

Date: 20 October 2015

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EIA for Proposed Coastal Protection Works in AA Ukulhas October 2015 1. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

The Project is proposed by Ministry of Environment and Energy for undertaking coastal protection measures on the northern shoreline of AA. Ukulhas Island. The focus of the project is to protect the northern side of AA. Ukulhas Island as the area is currently undergoing serious beach erosion, which is currently reaching up to island infrastructures. In order to protect the area, the Ministry of Environment and Energy proposes to undertake beach replenishment of a 6,600sqm area on the north and design and construct a 280m long rock boulder revetment along the replenished shoreline.

The project has been awarded to Sas e Senok JV Pvt. Ltd. on design and built basis. As the contractor for the project, Sas e Senok JV Pvt. Ltd. has undertaken the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Report to be submitted to Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for approval.

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

The scope of this EIA is to assess the existing environmental condition of Ukulhas Island and surrounding environment, identify potential environmental impacts, propose environmental management and mitigation measures to minimize environmental impacts as well as propose an environmental monitoring plan with appropriate environmental parameters to monitor changes on a regular basis.

Ukulhas Island is located at 4°12'56.35"N and 72°51'49.13"E in a single reef found on the NE corner of North Ari Atoll. Both the island and reef is elliptical in shape and has a SE and NW orientation. The length and width of the island are approximately 1000m and 215m respectively. The area of the island is estimated to be 22ha.

Main environmental impacts from the proposed project will be from sedimentation including water quality deterioration, reef damage as well as direct destruction of lagoon habitats within the project boundary. Although, these impacts are inevitable, it is effects can be reduced by implementing various environmental management and mitigation measures such as undertaking sand pumping and beach nourishment operations coinciding with low tide and on

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EIA for Proposed Coastal Protection Works in AA Ukulhas October 2015 calm days as well as undertaking the operations in the quickest possible timeframe to reduce impact exposure period.

During the operation of the resort, solid waste and wastewater disposal as well as certain tourist activities is believed to generate the most significant environmental impacts especially on the marine environment where the impacts may range from marine pollution, water quality deterioration, potential health risks, destruction of marine habitats as well as aesthetic and cumulative impacts.

The project is believed to generate a number of beneficial impacts. These include protection of a critical island environment, protection of school and waste management center.

With regards to mitigating and reducing significant environmental impacts from the project, the following measures including use physical barriers such as earthen berms, sand beds and rock boundaries to close reclamation areas, undertake the activities in shortest possible time and on calm days at low tides, reclamation to be undertaken in sections within the boundary, directing sedimentation into the deep lagoon area and number of other measures have been proposed.

Although during construction of the project, significant environmental impacts from dredging and land reclamation activities as a result of sedimentation and direct destruction of habitats have been envisaged, with appropriate environmental management and mitigation measures, these impacts will be reduced to a considerable level. Also, with positive social outlook of the project and considering the overall need for the project, it is concluded that the project should go ahead as planned.

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EIA for Proposed Coastal Protection Works in AA Ukulhas October 2015 2. INTRODUCTION

2.1 PROJECT BACKGROUND

The following project is proposed by Ministry of Environment and Energy for undertaking coastal protection measures on the northern shoreline of AA. Ukulhas Island. The focus of the project is to protect the northern side of AA. Ukulhas Island as the area is currently undergoing serious beach erosion, which is currently reaching up to island infrastructures. In order to protect the area, the Ministry of Environment and Energy proposes to undertake beach replenishment of a 6,600sqm area on the north and design and construct a 280m long rock boulder revetment along the replenished shoreline.

2.2 PROPONENT AND CONTRACTOR

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

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

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

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2.3 BACKGROUND TO THE EIA

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

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

The approved TOR is attached in Appendix 1.

As the project involves a small dredging and reclamation component, a dredging and reclamation permit was obtained from EPA under the Dredging and Reclamation Regulation 2013 on 26 August 2015, prior to approval of the TOR for the EIA.

The dredging and reclamation permit is attached in Appendix 2.

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

2.4 RATIONALE

Beach erosion on the northern shoreline of the island started immediately after development of the harbor in 1998 and ever since the area has been undergoing serious beach erosion. From 1998 to 2005, a large area from the island has been lost as a result. In order to restore affected area by beach erosion, the area was reclaimed up to its original shoreline and a sand- cement bag revetment was constructed to protect the area. As the area has been experiencing cross currents from swells generated from NE and SW, the sand-cement bag revetment was damaged and the reclaimed area started to erode immediately after it was installed.

The reclaimed area continued to be eroding away and posing serious threats to some of the infrastructures such as primary school and waste management center of the island. In 2013, only 15 feet was observed between these infrastructures and the area affected by erosion.

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Occasional flooding of the area affecting the school and the waste management center has been observed in 2013.

Several times, the Island Council has brought the issue to the concerned authorities and only recently the proposed project has been approved.

As the erosion continued, the road going to the waste management center has been lost and the erosion has reached up to the walls of the primary school. It is estimated that over 30 feet of land has been lost from the area since 2005. If the current rate of erosion in the area continues, important infrastructure on the island such as primary school and the waste management area will be badly affected.

2.5 EIA SCOPE AND APPROACH

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

The broad aims and objectives of this report are outlined below;

 Describe in detail the proposed project;  Identify the need for the proposed development;  Describe the biophysical status of the existing environmental condition of the affected area based on the findings undertaken during the site visits;  Assess, identify and predict potential environmental impacts of the proposed development activities;

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 Evaluate the significance and magnitude of impacts that will be generated; and identify and predict ways in which these environmental impacts will be prevented and removed through appropriate environmental management and mitigation measures;  Develop a mechanism to closely monitor and understand the long-term effects and changes of the proposed development on the environment with respect to the available baseline information, mostly collected from field assessments and site visits;  Provide alternative means for project development in terms of minimizing environmental impacts;  Provide legal protection with regards to the proposed development activities; and  Review the predictions and assessments made on environmental impacts that are associated with the proposed development activities.

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

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

2.6 REVIEW OF RELEVANT STUDIES

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

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

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

2.7 EIA STRUCTURE

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

 Description of the Project: A description of the overall project including coastal protection designs, extent of beach replenishment, and project justification, main project inputs and outputs, project schedule.  Legal Considerations: An assessment of the existing policies, laws, regulations that the project has to comply with, and information on relevant agencies responsible for environment administration, management and protection;  Existing Environment: An assessment of the existing environmental status of the affected area of AA Ukulhas Island;  Potential Environmental Impacts: Prediction of potential environmental impacts and a detailed evaluation of these impacts through appropriate methods and means;

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

2.8 IMPACT PREDICTION AND EVALUATION

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

2.9 EIA TEAM

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

Mr. Ibrahim Shakir, Registered Land and Hydrographic Surveyor, is as experienced Land Survey Consultant who has undertaken a number of land surveys for the purpose of land registration and development, undertaken many hydrographic surveys for development of

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EIA for Proposed Coastal Protection Works in AA Ukulhas October 2015 important facilities such as jetties, harbours, water villas, as well as other water-associated facilities in many islands in the Maldives.

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

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EIA for Proposed Coastal Protection Works in AA Ukulhas October 2015 3. STUDY AREA

The main focus of the EIA is to undertake baseline environmental conditions of the project area in AA Ukulhas Island and surrounding environment with regards to identifying the existing status of the environments relevant for the proposed project. Figure 1 shows location of AA Ukulhas Island in the Atoll, and Figures 2 and 3 show aerial of the region including the island and the surrounding environment that constitutes the main study area for the proposed project.

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Figure 1: Location of Ukulhas Island in AA Atoll

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Figure 2: Aerial view of Ukulhas Island

Figure 3: Study area boundary

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EIA for Proposed Coastal Protection Works in AA Ukulhas October 2015 4. PROJECT DESCRIPTION

4.1 PROJECT LOCATION

The proposed project involving beach replenishment of 6,600sqm area and protection of the shoreline by a 280m long rock revetment will be carried out on the northern side of AA Ukulhas Island (Figures 2 and 3).

Figure 4: Area proposed to be replenished and protected by rock revetment

The nearest inhabited islands are Bodufulhadhoo, situated 10km SW and Rasdhoo, situated at 13km NE and the nearest tourist resort is Velidu Island Resort situated at 5.25km SW.

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4.2 JUSTIFICATION

The northern side of the island requires immediate protection from coastal erosion. The area has been undergoing serious erosion since 1998 after the development of the harbor. Although coastal protection measures have been developed in 2005, beach erosion still continues on the island and now has reached to a critical stage where some of the island infrastructure including the primary school and the waste management center are at risk.

Due to continued erosion, the access road to the waste management site found on the northern side of the island has now been completely lost and also has reached up to the primary school. Occasional flooding of the area has been observed during the season and bad weather and there is fear that these infrastructures on the island will soon be lost.

Figure 5: Impacts of beach erosion from 2012 (top left) to 2015 (bottom right): Extent of the area with access road in 2012 (top left), flooding in 2013 (top right), erosion in 2014 (bottom left) and erosion affecting school wall in 2015 (bottom right).

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4.3 PROJECT OUTLINE

4.3.1 Project Scope

The scope of the proposed project involves;

a. Replenishment of the beach area having 6,600 sqm on the northern side of the island b. Development of a rock boulder revetment of 280m along the northern shoreline to protect the beach area

Figure 6: Project scope

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4.3.2 Detailed Design

The detailed design of the project involving reclamation and revetment has been approved by Ministry of Environment and Energy on 11 October 2015.

The approval letter is attached in Appendix 3.

The following figures show approved plans of the proposed project to be carried out in AA Ukulhas.

Figure 7: Approved project outline

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Figure 8: Approved rock revetment plan

4.3.3 Dredging and Reclamation

The proposed project involves reclamation of a 6,600sqm area on the erosion affected area on the northern side of the island. The estimated fill material requirement is 9,240cbm. Three burrow site options have been proposed for approval and option 3 located on the NE side by an existing reef entrance has been approved by EPA. Hence, the required fill material will be obtained from the approved site.

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

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Figure 9: Burrow sites options and approved burrow site (encircled)

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

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

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

For reclamation below sea level, dredged material will be directly placed in reclamation areas. Large pieces of coral deposited on reclamation area will be spread over the full width of the reclamation area with sufficient small coral pieces or other fine material will be sued to fill voids to ensure compact reclamation.

For reclamation above sea level, coral material will be placed in level and horizontal areas will not exceed 0.3m (loose measurement) thick and will be compacted before the next layer

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EIA for Proposed Coastal Protection Works in AA Ukulhas October 2015 is placed. Effective spreading equipment will be used on each lift to obtain a uniform thickness prior to compacting. As the compaction of each layer progresses, levelling and adjustments will be performed continuously to ensure uniform density.

4.3.4 Rock Boulder Revetment

A 280m long rock boulder revetment will be placed along the shoreline of the reclaimed land as the coastal protection measure. The agreed codes of practice in BS 6349, Part 1 and Part 2, Maritime structures will be followed.

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

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

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

Although the initial project approved a 280m long rock revetment, based on the baseline survey of the existing environment of the area, the contractor proposes to add an extra 10m on the NW end of the revetment in order to prevent flanking at the end of the revetment as shown below.

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Figure 10: Option to add extra 10m at the end of the revetment to prevent flanking

4.4 PROJECT INPUT/OUTPUT

Following the key project inputs and outputs.

Project Input Type Source Labor Foreign and local Contractor (10-15 persons) Technical personnel Foreign and local Contractor (2-3 persons) From burrow site, and rocks Fill material and rock Material imported and contractor’s boulder material Landing craft 450T, crawlers cranes (3), excavators (450, Machinery Contractor’s machinery 350, 330), wheel loader (3), dumpers (3) Spare parts for all Spare parts Contractor and local suppliers machineries Water supply During construction From the island Fuel supply Diesel, petrol, lubricants Contractor and locally Page 30

EIA for Proposed Coastal Protection Works in AA Ukulhas October 2015

purchased Locally arranged and hired Food and accommodation During construction from the island Fire extinguishers, first aid, Health and safety Contractor safety equipment

Table 1: Key project inputs

Quantity Disposal Method Project Output Dredged material 9,240cbm Fill material burrow site Developed on the northern Rock revetment 280m side Construction waste Small Re-used Re-used or stocked to transfer Oil and lubricant waste Small for final disposal in Thilafushi Air and Noise Pollution Small Fixed working hours

Table 2; Key project outputs

4.5 PROJECT SCHEDULE

Following is the project schedule.

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Table 3; Project schedule

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4.6 KEY ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND AFFECTED BOUNDARIES

The proposed reclamation and development of rock revetment in AA Ukulhas will generate in number of environmental impacts both during construction and post construction phases. During construction, dredging and land reclamation as well as movement of rock boulder within the lagoon is believed to generate the key environmental impacts on the immediate and surrounding marine environment. Dredging and land reclamation operations will generate the key environmental impacts both short-term and long-term as well as irreversible damage to the marine environment from sedimentation, deterioration of seawater quality due to increased turbidity and direct destruction of marine habitats.

During post construction, the environmental impacts will be less, however, may pose some risks of flooding of the reclaimed land due to heavy weather.

The following figure shows distribution of the most significant environmental impact from the proposed development, which is believed to be from dredging and land reclamation operations where large amounts of sedimentation will be released into the marine environment that may harm the immediate and surrounding coral reefs.

Direct impact zone

Sedimentation during dredging

Direct damage during construction of revetment

Sedimentation during construction of revetment

Figure 11: Key impact boundaries

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EIA for Proposed Coastal Protection Works in AA Ukulhas October 2015 5. LEGAL, POLICY AND ADMINISTRATIVE FRAMEWORK

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

5.1 APPLICABLE LAWS AND REGULATIONS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

5.1.2 Maldives EIA Regulation, 2012

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

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

5.1.3 Environmental Damage Liabilities Regulation, 2011

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

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

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5.1.4 Dredging and Reclamation Regulation, 2013

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

5.1.5 Waste Management Regulation, 2013

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

5.2 RELEVANT POLICIES

5.2.1 National Framework for Development, 2009-2013

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

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

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

5.2.2 3rd National Environmental Action Plan, 2009-2013

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

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

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

The key principles of the NEAP 3 are;

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

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

5.2.3 Maldives national Strategy for Sustainable Development, 2009

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

The guiding principles outlined in the NSSD are;

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

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

5.2.4 National Solid Waste Management Policy, 2007

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

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

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

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

5.3 RELEVANT AUTHORITIES

5.3.1 Ministry of Environment and Energy, MEE

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

5.3.2 Environment Protection Agency, EPA

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

5.3.3 Councils

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

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With regards to the proposed coastal protection works to be carried out in Ukulhas Island, the Ukulhas Island Council and AA Atoll Council will act as the key liaising local councils.

5.4 ENVIRONMENTAL PERMITS REQUIRED

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

5.4.1 Dredging and Land Reclamation Approval

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

5.4.2 EIA Decision Statement

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

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EIA for Proposed Coastal Protection Works in AA Ukulhas October 2015 6. EXISTING ENVIRONMENT

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

6.1 DATA COLLECTION METHODS

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

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

6.1.1 Geophysical Environment

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

6.1.2 Climatic Environment

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

6.1.3 Coastal Environment

A GPS was used to collected information on the existing shoreline affected by beach erosion in Ukulhas Island. A bathymetric survey using an echo-sounder and GPS was undertaken in the lagoons to identify nearshore depths of the affected area. Differential GPS technique was

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EIA for Proposed Coastal Protection Works in AA Ukulhas October 2015 used for correction of GPS locations points. Echo sounder measurements were corrected and related to the mean sea-level for the area. A drogue and a GPS were used to identify the currents around the project area in two locations. Beach profiles were undertaken by using a standard leveler and profile locations were geo-referenced.

6.1.4 Marine Environment

Since a large component of the project involves dredging, status of existing coral reefs have been assessed by photo quadrats on selected locations, lagoon bottoms especially in alternative burrow sites were visually assessed for presence of corals and other benthic life.

6.1.5 Socio-Economic Environment

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

6.1.6 Uncertainties on Data Collection Methods

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

6.2 GEOPHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT

6.2.1 Geography

The nearest inhabited islands are Bodufulhadhoo, situated 10km SW and Rasdhoo, situated at 13km NE and the nearest tourist resort is Velidu Island Resort situated at 5.25km SW.

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6.2.2 Geology

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

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

A key geological characteristic of the island is its narrow and isolated formation. The reef structure around the island is observed to be quite old well established. Only northern side of the island has a lagoon and everywhere else, the island is saturated. A large natural harbor is found on the northern side of the reef with a very gentle slope at the northern tip of the reef. The immediate depths around Ukulhas are believed to be between 40m – 60m.

6.2.3 Topography and Geomorphology

The land features and surface configuration observation undertaken on the island indicate that the terrain features of the island are quite uniform and regular. No depressions and neither altitude changes are observed. The average height of the island is 1.42m above MSL. The key characteristic of the topography of the island is presence of very dark and rich soil, hence presence of good and healthy vegetation.

The northern side of the island has extensive lagoon areas that are quite shallow and the lagoon bottom consists of aged rocks, rubble and sand. Small beach length as well as small reef extents is observed on the southern side of the island. The SE tip of the island is somewhat dynamic and is extended right up to the reef edge. North eastern side of the island has the harbor hence no erosion is observed. The northern tip of the island and the area is

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EIA for Proposed Coastal Protection Works in AA Ukulhas October 2015 observed to be quite dynamic with serious beach erosion and cross currents in the lagoon as the main feature.

6.3 CLIMATIC ENVIRONMENT

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

6.3.1 Climatic Setting

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

Parameter Data Average Rainfall 9.1mm/day in May, November 1.1mm/day in February Maximum Rainfall 184.5 mm/day in October 1994 Average air temperature 30.0oC in November 1973 31.7oC in April Extreme Air Temperature 34.1oC in April 1973 17.2oC in April 1978 Average wind speed 3.7 m/s in March 5.7 m/s in January, June Maximum wind speed W 31.9 m/s in November 1978 Average air pressure 1012 mb in December 1010 mb in April Table 4: Key meteorological information of Maldives

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6.3.2 Monsoons

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

6.3.3 Temperature

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

Figure 12: Average temperatures for Regional Met Centers in 2013 (Source: Statistical Yearbook of Maldives 2014)

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

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6.3.4 Sunshine and Rainfall

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

Figure 13: Monthly average sunshine and rainfall for Male’ for 2013 (Source: Statistical yearbook of Maldives 2014)

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

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

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

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

6.3.5 Relative Humidity

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

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

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

6.3.6 Winds

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

Figure 14: Average wind speed and direction (www.windfinder.com)

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6.3.7 Currents, Tides and Swells

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

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

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

Figure 15: Male’ tide predictions from 30 Sept – 8 Oct 2015 (www.tide-forecast.com)

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EIA for Proposed Coastal Protection Works in AA Ukulhas October 2015

6.4 COASTAL ENVIRONMENT

6.4.1 Beach and Coastal Area

Ukulhas has typical beach characteristics in terms of type that are mostly found in small islands of similar geomorphology and setting. The beach around the island is relative and exists on most parts of the island, even during high and low tides, except for northern side where severe beach erosion has been identified. The shoreline is now very close to some of the infrastructure found on the island as shown below.

Figure 16: Beach erosion affected area on the northern side

6.4.2 Coastal Dynamics and Erosion

Beach dynamics of the project area was studied by taking beach profiles, transacts, comparison of aerial photographs in 2005, 2011 and 2013 from Google Earth and that of the shoreline survey undertaken in 2015. It was found that the area has been affected by beach erosion since 2005 and large a large area has been lost as a result. The area has been identified to be quite dynamic and according to the locals, the area started beach erosion immediately after the development of the harbor in 1998.

As a result of continued beach erosion, the area was reclaimed and a sand-cement bag revetment was placed in 2005. However, due to the dynamic nature of the area, which is believed to have occurred as a result of the harbor development, the sand-cement bag revetment was completely damaged and erosion started again. All sand from the previous reclamation has been lost and the area is back to its 2005 shape. Occasional flooding in the area has been observed from 2012.

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EIA for Proposed Coastal Protection Works in AA Ukulhas October 2015

Also, beach profiles taken from the area indicate heavy scouring of beach material especially in the affected areas.

Figure 17: Shoreline with beach erosion in 2005

Figure 18: Partial loss of reclaimed area in the north in 2011

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EIA for Proposed Coastal Protection Works in AA Ukulhas October 2015

Figure 19: Complete loss of reclaimed area in 2013

Figure 20: Extent of erosion in 2014

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Figure 21: Damaged sand-cement bag revetment developed in 2005 on the NW side

Figure 22: Parts of the damaged sand-cement bag revetment in the lagoon of the northern side

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Figure 23: Comparison of changes in the shoreline with the recent survey in 2015

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Figure 24: Location of beach profiles from the project area

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Figure 25: Beach profiles taken in the project area

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6.4.3 Lagoon Bathymetry

Figure 26: Beach profiles taken in the project area

Bathymetry taken around the project area indicates that the depths are between 0.8m – 1m.

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6.4.4 Currents

Figure 27: Currents measurements

The currents have a northerly flow. On NW corner of the island the currents seem to be low having 0.04m/s. However, on the north a current speed of 0.09m/s was recorded.

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6.5 MARINE ENVIRONMENT

6.5.1 Assessment Locations

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

Figure 28: Marine environment survey sites (R = reef survey, V = visual assessment sites, W = seawater quality

6.5.2 General Observations

Ukulhas Island is found in a single elliptical shape reef that is approximately 1.6km long and 530m wide. The orientation of the reef is similar to that of the island on NW and SE direction. The island fully occupies the SE half of the reef, hence some lagoon areas are found only on the NW. Also more defined reef boundaries including wide reef flat areas, a natural deep lagoon area and distinctive reef slopes are found on the NW half of the reef. At the NW tip of the reef, a gentle reef slope occurs, which is observed to be quite prominent. Elsewhere on the reef, the reef slopes are steep.

The reef flats found on the NE side is wide compared to the NW side having 100m and 50m respectively.

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A large harbor has been developed in the middle of the reef on the NE side and it is located slightly northwards of the island. Two reef entrances have been created on the NE side, one as a a harbor entrance and the other on the northern side of the harbor. Sandy bottoms have been observed within these entrances. Also, a narrow entrance is observed on the western side of the reef, which is now rarely used.

The reef extent is long on the NW side having approximately 590m, and everywhere else, the reef extent is small having between 50m – 70m.

Visual observations in the lagoon (V1 and V2) show that most parts of the lagoon is comprised of dead rocks, rubble and sand. Very few live corals were observed, most of which are quite young. Due to erosion on the northern side, the lagoon has very low visibility. V1 site mainly contains sand and rubble as the main composition, which is also selected as alternative burrow sites and V2 site contains dead rocks, rubble as well as remains of the sand-cement bags within the lagoon closer to the island. Due to these characteristics of the lagoon areas observed, fish life was observed to be very minimal. Few surgeonfish, damsels and parrotfish were observed.

Figure 29: General characteristics at V1 site with high percent of sand and rubble content. The site is selected as alternative burrow sites.

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Figure 30: General characteristics at V2 site with rocks and rubble as well as remains of the 2005 revetment closer to the island

6.5.3 Assessments on Coral Reefs

Ecological condition of the coral reef areas on either side of the reef of Ukulhas was assessed by photo quadrats and visual fish census. R1 was located by the proposed dredge area on the NE reef and R2 was located on the NW reef flat area. Both sites were assessed for coral composition and reef fish abundance and diversity.

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

Reef composition at 2 Reef Sites, AA Ukulhas 50 45 40 35 30 25 20 15 10 5 0 Live Coral Dead Coral Algae Rock Rubble Sand R1 17 43 10 20 9 1 R2 8 30 12 28 15 7

Figure 31: Reef composition at surveyed sites from the reef of Ukulhas

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Among the two sites assessed, the highest live coral cover was found at R1 located on the north-eastern side of the island by the reef crest having around 17%. Live coral cover at R2 was 8%. Similarly the dead corals found at R1 was higher (43%) compared to R2 (30%). All other contents such as algae, rock, rubble and sand were found to be higher at R2. There is a distinct different in types of corals present on both sites. R1 contained more varieties of corals mostly Acropora, while R2 contains more massive corals belong to Porites. Since R2 was located at the reef flat this difference may have occurred as R1 was placed at the reef crest.

Figure 32: Main reef characteristics at R1 with higher live coral content

Figure 33: Main reef characteristics at R2 with massive coral composition

Reef fish abundance and diversity was also assessed during the coral reef assessments. Visual fish censuses were carried out on all reef sites along an approximately 20m belt transects. The

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EIA for Proposed Coastal Protection Works in AA Ukulhas October 2015 reef fish assessments were only done at family level. The findings of the reef fish assessments are presented in the following figure.

Figure 34: Reef fish assessment results at two locations

The results of the reef fish assessments indicate that the reef fish abundance and diversity found among the two sites were quite varied. Both sites 1 and 2 (corresponding to reef sites) were assessed for reef fish abundance and R1 contained more reef abundance and diversity than R2. A total of 67 reef fish belonging to 13 families were recorded from R1. A total 49 reef fish belong to only 7 families were recoded from R2. However, surgeonfish and damsels encountered at both sites were high. No groupers, angelfish, Moorish idol, unicornfish, rabbitfish were found from R2. In terms of reef fish abundance and diversity, R1 has the highest numbers.

6.5.4 Seawater Quality

A seawater sample from one location (north lagoon) was taken and tested by the laboratories at MWSC for the parameters in the following table to establish the baseline status of seawater around the island.

Seawater test results are attached in Appendix 4.

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Perimeter Unit SW 1 Physical Appearance Clear Conductivity 55100 pH 8.06 Nitrate mg/L 1.1 Sulphate mg/L 3100 Salinity mg/L 36.40 TSS mg/L 27500 Turbidity NTU 0.661 Table 6: Seawater analysis results

The seawater quality around the island had no excessive contents of nitrate or sulphates. Other parameters tested were also in normal conditions showing that the seawater around the island is clean at the time of assessment. Turbidity levels are at 0.661. The results will be used as baseline for monitoring the water quality around the island.

6.5.5 Marine Protected Areas and Protected Species

Currently there are four Marine Protected Area in North Ari Atoll, which are Maaya Thila, Kari Beyru Thila situated on the southern side of the island at 13km and 14km respectively. Orimas Thila and Fishhead are found on the far southern side of the island at 27km and 30m respectively. Hence, the closes Marine Protected Area closest to Ukulhas is Maaya Thila.

Figure 35: MPAs found in AA Atoll (encircled)

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6.6 SOCIO-ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT

6.6.1 Introduction to North Ari Atoll

North Ari Atoll (Alifu Alifu) is the northern half of Ari Atoll. North Ari Atoll has been separated from the rest of Ari Atoll due to administrative purposes. Ari Atoll is approximately in the middle of the Maldives chain, on the western side. It is named after the island Ariadhoo, an important historic and religious center of the Maldives during the pre- Islamic days.

There are 33 islands in North Ari Atoll, of which only 8 islands are currently inhabited. They are Thoddoo, Rasdhoo, Ukulhas, Mathiveri, Bodufulhadhoo, Feridhoo, Maalhos and Himandhoo. The total number of currently operating tourist resorts are 12, including Veligandu, Kuramathi, Gangehi, Nika, Velidhu, Best Western, Maayaafushi, Adhaaran, Constance, W Retreat, Chayaa and Dhoni Island. The rest of the islands are either long-term leased for various industrial activities, for development of tourist resorts as well as given for some individuals on Varuva basis.

The 8 inhabited islands and corresponding populations as well as populations in tourist resorts and industrial islands are found in the following table.

Island Population Thoddoo 1,320 Rasdhoo 1,065 Ukulhas 918 Mathiveri 578 Bodufulhadhoo 607 Feridhoo 437 Maalhos 426 Himandhoo 703 Tourist Resorts 2,357 Industrial islands and others 228 Total 8,639 Table 7: Population of AA Atoll (Source: Preliminary Results of Population and Housing Census, 2014, DNP)

The largest population is found in Thoddoo having 1,320. The smallest population is found in Maalhos having only 426 persons. Also there is a population of 2,357 in tourist resorts and a population of 228 working in industrial and other islands.

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

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

6.6.2 Housing

According to the Population and Housing Census of 2006, there are over 96 total households and living quarters in the Island. It is believed that there are over 150 households in the island.

6.6.3 Health and Education

There is a general health center on the island with very limited health services that has only 1 doctor, 2 nurses and 3 assistants. Atoll hospital in Rasdhoo island is widely used for health services as it is located close to the island and have daily transport services.

The Ukulhas School has a primary, secondary and high secondary education up to GCE A’ Levels available. In 2013, the student enrolment in the island is 330, out of which 31 students are enrolled in GCE A’ Level studies (Ministry of Education, 2013). It is the first school in the Atoll where GCE advanced studies are available.

6.6.4 Water, Sanitation and Energy

The island has a desalination plant and a piped network for the houses. The desalination plant is managed and operated by STELCO. The main source of drinking water on the island is desalinated water and bottled water.

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

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

6.6.5 Electricity

Ukulhas has access to 24-hour electricity provided by STELCO. The total installed capacity is 192kW. The monthly average usage is 48,917 kWh and the oil consumption is estimated to be 182,241977 liters per year (MEE, 2013).

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6.6.6 Waste Management

The island has good setup for waste management ranging from household collections to transfer of the waste to the waste management area. The waste management center on the island has been developed under a pilot EU grand aid programme implemented by Ministry of Environment and Energy in 2010.

Since then, the WMC has been managed by the people from the island, with sorting and composting involved in a systematic manner.

Currently, the WMC is at risk due to accelerated beach erosion on the island where it is located. Hence, the proposed project for protecting the northern side of the island is extremely important in order to continue with the currently ongoing and established waste management practice on the island.

6.6.7 Public Infrastructure

The harbour of the island was developed in 1998. Also, in 2013, smaller part of the harbour has been developed, which now makes the harbour one of the largest in the atoll. Two mosques are developed on the island.

6.6.8 Transportation

Transportation from Male to the island and back to Male’ as well as inter island transport between nearby islands are available on a daily basis. MTCC ferry services operate 4 days a week and a private company operates daily ferries except for Friday to the islands in the north including Rasdhoo, Ukulhas, Himandhoo and then to Male and back.

6.6.9 Local Economy

Local economy of Ukulhas is based on tourism and fishing. A number of youth from the island are employed at the nearby resorts and a number of islanders are engaged in fishing activities. Some general goods and retail shops also contribute to the local economy of Ukulhas Island. Currently, some guest houses operate in the island, which greatly contributes to the island economy. Generally, the standard of living in the island is good.

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6.7 ENVIRONMENTAL VULNERABILITY

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

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

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

Figure 36: Tsunami hazard zones

Figure 36 show that Maldives faces tsunami threat largely from the east and relatively low threat from the north and south. So, islands along the eastern fringe are more prone to tsunami hazard than those along the northern and southern fringes. Islands along the western fringe experience a relatively low tsunami hazard. This map is produced based on the experience of the tsunami in 2004 and also occurrence of historic tsunami events in the

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EIA for Proposed Coastal Protection Works in AA Ukulhas October 2015 greater region where most of the events have identified to have occurred from the Sumatra Region (UNDP, 2006).

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

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

Maldives is also affected by severe local storms- thunder storms/ thunder squalls. Hazards associated with thunder storms are strong winds, often exceeding a speed of 100 kilometres per hour, heavy rainfall, lightning and hail; they also give rise to tornadoes in some regions. In general, thunderstorms are more frequent in the equatorial region than elsewhere, and land areas are more frequently hit by thunderstorms as compared to open oceans. However, thunder storms close to the equator are less violent when compared with those in the tropical regions and beyond. Maldives being close to the equator, thunder storms are quite frequent but less violent here. Strong winds generated by severe local storms generate large wind- driven waves which are hazardous for Maldives (UNDP, 2006).

The islands of Maldives are less prone to tropical cyclones. The northern islands of the country were affected by weak cyclones that formed in the southern part of the Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea. Figure 37 shows the tracks of cyclones affecting Maldives during the period 1877 - 2004. The number of cyclones directly crossing Maldives is small. Only 11 cyclones crossed the islands over the entire span of 128 years. Most of the cyclones crossed Maldives north of 6.0o N and none of them crossed south of 2.7o N during the period (UNDP 2006).

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Figure 37: Tracks of cyclones affecting Maldives from 1877-2004

UNDP (2006) stated that there were 21 cyclonic disturbances within the 500 kilometers radius during 1877-2004, of which 15 were depressions with an average wind speed of about 28 knots. The highest wind speed due to cyclonic disturbances that affected the islands during that time was about 65 knots. Figure 38 shows the tracks of cyclonic disturbances that passed through the circle with 500 kilometers radius.

Figure 38: Tracks of cyclones passed within the scan radius of 500km.

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

Figure 39: Regions to capture cyclones passing through Maldives for hazard zoning. Page 71

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Figure 39 shows the regions used to compute the highest wind speed of each cyclone captured within the region. Majority of the cyclonic disturbances crossed the northern region. The frequency and wind speed decreases from northern region to southern region. Region 1 is not affected by any storm. Thus, Maldives can be divided into three cyclone hazard zones – the northern zone with high cyclone hazard, central zone with moderate cyclone hazard and the southern zone with very little cyclone hazard.

With regards to the storm surge potential, the bathymetry around the Maldives shows that the ocean slope close to the east coast is steeper than the west coast, hence it can be generalized that the eastern islands of the Maldives are vulnerable to higher surge hazard compared to the western islands. Figure 40 shows the bathymetry around Maldives. Figure 41 shows storm surge hazard zones based on computed model with maximum pressure drops for 100 year return period and with historical data (UNDP, 2006).

Figure 40: 3D view of bathymetry of Maldives (depth in meters).

Figure 41: Storm surge hazard zones with cyclones affected

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Based on historical catalogues of earthquakes in the region, identifying seismic sources based on this historical information and based on numerical models, it was found that except for Seenu, Gnaviyani and Gaafu Atolls, earthquake hazard is low across the country. The probable maximum Modified Mercalli Intensity (MMI) is estimated between 7-8 in Zone 5 (Figure 41). This level of MMI can cause moderate to high damages (UNDP, 2006).

Figure 42: Maldives seismic hazard zones

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

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EIA for Proposed Coastal Protection Works in AA Ukulhas October 2015 7. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS

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

7.1 METHODS

7.1.1 Impact Prediction

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

7.1.2 Assessing Impact Significance

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

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Table 8: Impact significance criteria

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

Table 9: Significance rating matrix

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

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

Table 10: Significance colour scale

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7.1.3 Limitations and Uncertainties

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

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

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

7.1.4 Justification of the Method Used

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

7.2 IMPACT PREDICTION

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

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

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

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

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7.3 DESCRIPTION OF IMPACTS

7.3.1 Construction Phase Impacts

7.3.1.1 Impacts from Fill Material Excavation

The required fill material will be obtained from the approved location on the NE side reef by an existing channel. It is estimated that around 10,000cbm of material will be obtained from the location.

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

Sedimentation

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

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

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

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Turbidity and Changes in Light Intensity

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

Water Quality

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

Habitat Destruction and Changes in Reef Community Structure

As sedimentation causes adverse impacts on the general reef ecosystems, it is apprehensible that all levels of physical and biological content of a reef system will undergo drastic changes. In the vicinity of the dredged site, the main damage is caused by sand loading, sedimentation, silt deposition on coral colonies, other organisms, crevices and cavities, and such drastic modifications lead to very important changes in the biotic composition and sometimes lead to the death of the reef. Within the coral reef ecosystem, corals and coralline algae are first to suffer from sedimentation. Some corals and algae will immediately die because they cannot reject mass sedimentation episodes while molluscs and crustaceans as well as fish leave the damaged reef or die, resulting total decrease in species richness and diversity as well as loses its renewable high productivity.

Site After Dredging

After the dredging has taken place, the substrate becomes lifeless, and rock surfaces will be covered by sessile organisms only if larvae can settle and survive. Some areas may be non

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EIA for Proposed Coastal Protection Works in AA Ukulhas October 2015 colonisable. However, it is believed that some sort of coral recolonisation will start even though not immediately after dredging but several years after the operation has taken place and when the condition becomes favourable for corals to restart establishment.

Impacts to Nearby Beaches

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

7.3.1.2 Land Reclamation

The land reclamation requirement for the proposed project is 0.66ha. The land will be reclaimed from fill material obtained by dredging from NE side of the reef. This will no doubt have vast implications in terms of environmental impacts on the area as well as on surrounding areas. Also, the information obtained here was extracted from available scientific literature, as very limited information was available on the impacts of reclamation activities undertaken in the Maldives.

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

Loss of Lagoon Habitat

A major consequence of reclamation on the marine environment included permanent loss of lagoon including loss of lagoon habitats as reclamation converts such habitats into dry land. For Ukulhas island, the lagoon environment does not contain many varieties of lagoon habitats. The nearshore lagoon mostly consisted of rocks, rubble and over thrown snad- cement revetment bags.

Sedimentation and Reef Damage

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

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EIA for Proposed Coastal Protection Works in AA Ukulhas October 2015 occurring on the marine environment from both operations will be largely felt similarly and simultaneously.

Changes in Current Flow

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

7.3.1.3 Development of Rock Boulder Revetment

Due to the sudden change in the shoreline as a result of placement of geo bags, current patterns of the nearshore environment within the project area may be affected. This may divert some currents to other areas in the nearshore environment along the northern shoreline of the island, hence, may cause further beach erosion. If beach erosion distributes to other areas along the shoreline, more coastal vegetation especially on the western side may be affected. On the reverse side, there is also potential to supplement these areas with sand which may be transported during the site preparation process.

7.3.1.4 Operation of Construction Vehicles

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

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

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7.3.2 Post Construction Impacts

7.3.2.1 Impacts from Potential Flooding

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

7.3.3 Indirect Impacts

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

7.3.4 Cumulative Impacts

There are number of development activities that are happening in the island and planned to be undertaken in the future. A number of construction activities are happening in the island and disposal of construction waste within the marine environment have the potential for marine pollution. In a near future, the island has plans to develop its sewerage system, which also has potential for some environmental damages especially during construction. Infrastructures like harbor require maintenance dredging to be undertaken and if such activities occur, there will be similar environmental impacts such as impacts from sedimentation on the reef.

7.3.5 Positive Impacts

The main positive impact from the proposed coastal protection project will be restoration of the northern beach with some added land. During construction direct and indirect benefits to the island economy from the construction workforce is foreseen, as all the contruction staff will stay on the island throughout the duration of project development. An important impact from the proposed project also include protection of the primary school and the waste management center from further damage. Also as requested by the Island Council, a 15 feet

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EIA for Proposed Coastal Protection Works in AA Ukulhas October 2015 wide road will be created along the reclaimed land where the community can use of transporting waste to the waste management area.

7.4 IMPACT ANALYSIS AND EVALUATION

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

Table 12: Impact analysis table

The above environmental impact analysis indicates that most of the environmental impacts occur during construction are of long-term in nature. However, during construction, significant impacts sedimentation, habitat destruction from dredging and land reclamation has been identified. Also, significance of a number of impacts during construction phase has been identified to be major and moderate. These include dredging, reclamation and coastal protection works.

All socio-economic impacts have very positive outcomes, including direct and indirect benefit to the community during construction period, which has been identified to be moderate and the fact that the proposed coastal protection works will protect the primary school and the water management center is believed to have moderate to major positive outlooks.

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EIA for Proposed Coastal Protection Works in AA Ukulhas October 2015 8. MITIGATION MEASURES

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

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

8.1 CONSTRUCTION PHASE

8.1.1 Mitigation Measures to Reduce Sedimentation

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

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

 Use physical barriers such as earthen berms and sand beds to close the area that will be excavated. Since sand excavation will be undertaken by use of excavators, the excavator pathway as well as the disposal site will be physically closed by laying a sand bed to confine sedimentation.  The required 9,240cbm of sand will be excavated by use excavator to ensure that the operation will be completed in the shortest time frame. Since the burrow area is shallow having 1m, the excavator can excavate the required material soon. In order to reduce effects of sedimentation, consideration has been given to excavate the sand in the shortest possible time, thus sedimentation will be seen only for a short period of time.

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

8.1.2 Mitigation Measures to reduce Reclamation-related Impacts

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

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

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

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

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

8.1.3 Mitigation Measures to Reduce Revetment Construction Impacts

In order to reduce impacts during construction of the revetment, the operation will be coincided with low tide and calm days. Once, the revetment is constructed on the desired Page 85

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

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

8.1.4 Mitigation Measures to Reduce Construction Vehicle Impacts

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

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

8.2 POST CONSTRUCTION PHASE

8.2.1 Mitigation Measures to Reduce Flooding Risks

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

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

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8.3 COMMITMENT

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

Commitment letter from the proponent is attached in Appendix 5.

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EIA for Proposed Coastal Protection Works in AA Ukulhas October 2015 9. ALTERNATIVES

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

9.1 NO DEVELOPMENT OPTION

The no development option have been outlined here only to address the consequences if the proposed development did not go ahead as a result of environmental impacts that the implementation of the project will generate. If the development does not go ahead, there would be no environmental impacts, however, there will be more risks to the island and some of the infrastructure such as school and waste management site as the erosion is getting worse day by day.

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

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9.2 OTHER ALTERNATIVES

9.2.1 Alternative Burrow Sites

During the process of obtaining dredging and reclamation permit, a total of 3 sites have been proposed, one on the NE side of the island and two sites located on the northern lagoon of the island.

Figure 43: Alternative burrow sites

The alternative burrow sites are located on the shallow lagoon found on the northern side of the island. The approved burrow site is found on the NE side of the island by the existing harbor. The baseline condition of the burrow sites was also assessed.

The area contains high rubble and sand content and in terms of fill material these have adequate material.

EPA approved the option 3 (NE side of the island) as the burrow site for the project. The proposed burrow site has been preferred over the proposed alternative sites, mainly for the following reasons;

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 A good access channel is required during the process of coastal protection works in terms of loading and unloading heavy machinery. The alternative sites will be difficult to access by the excavators.  Dredging in the alternative sites has the potential to spread sedimentation on either side of the reef. Hence increasing the turbid water conditions within the lagoon.  Dredging closer to the reclaimed land may not be practical.  More distance will need to be covered in terms of laying a sandbed, thus environmental impacts can be reduced.

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

9.2.2 Beach Replenishment as an Alternative

The northern shoreline of the island affected by beach erosion can be replenished as an alternative to coastal protection with sand obtained from the approved burrow site. The beach replenishment can be undertaken all along the affected area of 280m on the northern side to a width of 50m having an average height of 1.4m. To obtain the amount of sand required for the replenishment, the proposed burrow site can be used.

Since beach erosion is historic and prone in the northern shoreline, only replenishing the affected beaches may not suffice to restore the whole area. The northern side of the island is exposed to strong currents generated from either side of the sea, hence, sand from the replenished beaches have greater potential to be washed away without further protection measures. Due to the above reasons, the alternative is less favourable.

9.2.3 Alternative Coastal Protection Method

With regards to protecting the reclaimed land, it is proposed to develop a 280m long rock boulder revetment.

As an alternative coastal protection method, a sand-cement geo-bag breakwater having 280m has been considered. Based on the experience of the 2005 sand-cement bag revetment, which only lasted for a short period of time, due to the dynamic nature of the lagoon, the rock boulder revetment is believed to be more practical and susceptible to the envirommental

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EIA for Proposed Coastal Protection Works in AA Ukulhas October 2015 conditions of the area, hence, it is more practical and ensures more protection, hence the rock boulder revetment has been selected.

9.2.4 Breakwater Alternative

In order to protect the reclaimed land on the northern side of the island, an offshore rock boulder breakwater has been looked as an alternative.

If an offshore breakwater is laid as an alternative to the rock boulder revetment, the length of the breakwater will need to be extended to cover the whole of the northern area in order to obstruct the cross currents found within the northern lagoon. This option is vbelied to be far more expensive than the proposed revetment. As the project budget has already been approved, consideration is only given for the proposed rock boulder revetment as the preferred alternative for coastal protection.

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EIA for Proposed Coastal Protection Works in AA Ukulhas October 2015 10. STAKEHOLDER CONSULTATION

In order to identify key stakeholder concerns and interests with regards to the proposed coastal protection works, a stakeholder consultation with the key stakeholder of the project, the Ukulhas Island Council was undertaken.

Some of the individuals from the island community were also interviewed in order to get their general opinion on the project.

10.1 UKULHAS ISLAND COUNCIL

In order to understand the broad view of the island with regards to the proposed coastal protection project, the Ukulhas Island Council was met in Ukulhas during the field assessments by the consultants.

Following are the key points discussed;

 Since 2012, the Ukulhas Island Council has been working hard to bring the seriousness of this matter to all government authorities including the Ministry of Environment.  Beach erosion on the area has been going for some time now and in recent times, the issue has accelerated and more land have been lost as a result. It is believed that around 50ft – 70ft has been lost from the 2005 reclaimed areas.  As a result of erosion, the primary school and the waste management center has been at risk and needs an urgent solution.  The electric cable for the WMC is now exposed  The Ukulhas Council is aware of the project as the council has brought the issue to the Ministry of Environment and Energy as well as to the Environment Protection Agency since 2012.  As part of the proposed reclamation, Ukulhas Island Council wants to re-establish the road on the northern side of the island going to the MWC.

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 The Ukulhas Island Council and community wants the project to go ahead as planned by the Ministry of Environment and Energy.  The proposed coastal protection plan has been shared by the concerned government authority with Ukulhas Island Council.  The Island Council desires to implement the project as soon as possible, and they regard the project as an important activity for the development of the island. They are generally in support of the project, provided that if there are no budgetary implications to the project, their requirements of backfilling can be incorporated in the scope of the proposed project.

Figure 44: The EIA consultant meeting with member of Ukulhas Island Coulcil

10.2 MEETING WITH INDIVIDUALS FROM THE ISLAND

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

Ali Waheed, School Security

According to him, he is aware of the project from the talks of the island and considers the project to be implemented very soon as the school is currently under threat as a result of erosion on the area.

He also informed that a large area from the island has been lost as a result of development of the harbor on NE side.

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Ahmed Akram, Ferry Terminal

Akram is a youth and considers that the areas need to be immediately protected. He remember that the area had been reclaimed and protected once.

Shakeeb, Guest House Partner

Mr. Shakeeb thinks the area is affecting the island badly. Both the school and the waste management center need to be immediately protected. He is aware of the proposed project.

10.2.1 List of Participants

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

NAME DESIGNATION CONTACT President Shaukath Ibrahim 7989552 Ukulhas Island Council Member Ali Waheed 7622141 Ukulhas Island Council Member Mohamed Hussain 7906804 Ukulhas Island Council Vice President Abdulla Firag 7943727 Ukulhas Island Council Zinmaadhaaru Is Veriya Ishaq Moosa 7778613 Ukulhas Island Council School Security Guard, Ali Waheed Ukulhas School Shakeeb Guest House 7778331 Ahmed Akram Ferry terminal Table 13: List of persons consulted

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EIA for Proposed Coastal Protection Works in AA Ukulhas October 2015 11 ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING

11.1 BACKGROUND

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

11.1.1 Aim

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

11.1.2 Objective

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

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

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

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11.2 MONITORING REPORT

A detailed environmental monitoring report will be compiled and submitted to the Ministry of Tourism during construction and post-construction periods of the project based on the data collected for monitoring the parameters included in the monitoring plan outlined for the project. An Addendum Monitoring Report and an EIA Monitoring Report will be done simultaneously.

11.2.1 Report Format

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

11.2.2 Reporting Frequency

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

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

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11.3 MONITORING PLAN AND COSTS

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

Baseline Monitoring Approx Cost Indicators Reference Technique Frequency Requirements (US$) Values Sediment deposited Qualitative & Siltation Normal 6 months 200.00 on reef substrate Quantitative Aerial 2005 Beach erosion Erosion/Accretion photograph and 6 months 200.00 Shoreline GPS survey Laboratory Pre- Turbidity and TSS Analysis from 6 months 200.00 Construction MWSC Conductivity Seawater pH Quality Laboratory Salinity Baseline EIA Analysis from 6 months 120.00 TSS MWSC TDS Turbidity Standard Beach profiles Sand movement Baseline EIA leveling 6 months 400.00 technique Drought Currents Seasonal directions Baseline EIA 6 months 100.00 technique

Bathymetry Varying depths Baseline EIA Echo-sounder 6 months 400.00

TOTAL COST 1,620.00 Table 14: Monitoring plan

11.4 COMMITMENT

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

Commitment letter from the Project Proponent is attached in Appendix 5.

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EIA for Proposed Coastal Protection Works in AA Ukulhas October 2015 12. CONCLUSIONS

Following are the conclusions with regards to the proposed coastal protection works to be carried out in AA Ukulhas Island; o Beach erosion on the northern side of Ukulhas is quite severe as it now has the potential to damage the school and the waste management center. Beach erosion started immediately after the development of the harbor in 1998. Since then erosion has been continuing. In 2005, the affected area was reclaimed and protected with a sand-cement bag revetment, however, it was damaged and displaced as a result of the dynamic conditions of the area. Due to the existing condition of the northern side, it requires immediate coastal protection measures. The overall benefit of the project is to protect the northern side from further erosion as well as protecting the school and waste management center from potential damage. o The project involves dredging, land reclamation and development of rock boulder revetment to be undertaken as part of the overall coastal protection works. The environmental impacts from sedimentation and direct destruction and loss of habitat from these activities have been identified to be the most significant environmental impacts from the project. Especially in areas where dredging and land reclamation occur, irreparable damages in these areas of the marine environment have been identified.

 Careful planning and scheduling of the proposed activities to coincide with calm days and low tide operations has been proposed as the main mitigation measures in addition to regular monitoring of the various aspects of the environment. o Alternatives to some of the project components such as alternative burrow sites, alternative dredging and reclamation method, and alternative mitigation measures to mitigate and reduce spread of sedimentation as well as alternative coastal protection measures have been identified and evaluated. The process of selecting preferred alternative has also been stated.

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EIA for Proposed Coastal Protection Works in AA Ukulhas October 2015 o Environmental monitoring during both construction and post construction stages has be given serious consideration in order to assess the degree and magnitude of environmental changes in the biophysical environment, severity of impacts as a result of the proposed development. An environmental monitoring programme will be implemented during construction and operation stages of the proposed development. o Although there are a number of environmental impacts from the proposed development, most of these impacts can be reduced and mitigated by use of appropriate methodology. The effectiveness of these methodologies can be documented by implementing a comprehensive monitoring programme. Also, with positive social outlook of the project and considering the overall need for the project, it is concluded that the project should go ahead as planned.

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EIA for Proposed Coastal Protection Works in AA Ukulhas October 2015 13. REFERENCES

Developing a Disaster Risk Profile of Maldives, 2006, UNDP

Dredging and Reclamation Regulation, 2013, EPA

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

EIA Regulation (Amended), 2015, EPA

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

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

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

Maldives Energy Outlook, 2013, Ministry of Environment and Energy

Ministry of Education, 2013, Schools Statistics

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

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

Population and Housing Census 2006, Ministry of Planning and Development

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

Regulations on Environmental Impact Assessment, 2012, MEE

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

Statistical Yearbook of Maldives, 2013, Department of National Planning

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

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

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EIA for Proposed Coastal Protection Works in AA Ukulhas October 2015 14. APPENDICES

APPENDIX 1: Approved Terms of Reference (TOR) 172

APPENDIX 2: Reclamation Approval Letter and Map 179

APPENDIX 3: Approval Letter for Detailed Design 181

APPENDIX 4: Seawater Test Results 182

APPENDIX 5: Commitment Letter from Proponent 200

APPENDIX 6: Letter from Ukulhas Island Council 201

APPENDIX 7: Letter from AA Atoll Council

APPENDIX 8: CVs of Consultants 204

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APPENDIX 1: Approved Terms of Reference (TOR)

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APPENDIX 2: Reclamation Approval Letter and Map

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APPENDIX 3: Approved Letter for Detailed Design

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APPENDIX 4: Seawater Test Results

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APPENDIX 5: Commitment Letter from Proponent

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APPENDIX 6: Letter from Ukulhas Island Council

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APPENDIX 7: Letter from AA Atoll Council

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APPENDIX 8: CVs of Consultants

Mr. Mohamed Zuhair

Personal Details

Full Name: Mohamed Zuhair

ID Card: A-045870

Date of Birth: 18 December 1971

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

Marital Status: Married with 3 children

Languages: English (Professional) Dhivehi (Mother tongue)

Education and Training

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

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

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

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

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

Employment

 Freelance Environmental Consultant (2011 - Present)

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

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

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

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

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

Recent Consultancies Undertaken

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 Environmental Impact Assessment Proposed Tourist Resort Development on Akirifushi Island, K. Atoll, Maldives. 2014 Page 118

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Professional Certifications

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

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

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Ibrahim Shakir (Shark)

Date of Birth: 18 July 1967

Contact Address: Ma Sharky Shark

Koarukendi Magu

Male’ 20-30

Maldives

E-mail: [email protected]

Nationality: Maldivian

Contact no: +9607759695

Qualifications

Associate Diploma of Land information Management Systems

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

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

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

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

Relevant Experience

Surveying projects

Current______

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

Completed ______

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Gdh.Dhigulaabadhoo Topographic survey and Hydrograhic Survey.

K.Kaashidhoo set-out survey for tourist hotel

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

Laguna Maldives (Male’ Atoll) managed by Universal Enterprises

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

Konnota Island (Gaafu Dhaal atoll) managed by PCH

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

Maavelavaru Island (Noonu atoll) managed by Athama Marine

Topographic Survey, Hydrographic Survey and Setout Survey.

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

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

HANDHUFUSHI (Herathere) ADDU Atoll / managed by Yatch tours

Hydrographic Survey of the proposed water villa site

Madoogali Island (Ari atoll)

Topographic survey includes buildings, structures and water villas.

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

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

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Full Moon Maldives / Universal Enterprises

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

Baros island Resort / Universal Enterprises

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

Dhigufinolhu island Resort / Universal Enterprises

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

Palm Beach Resort, Lhaviyani Atoll, Maldives

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

Ari Beach Resort, Ari Atoll, Maldives

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

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

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

Veligandu Huraa, Maafushivaru (Twin island)

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

Fesdu Fun island / Universal Enterprises

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

NakatchaaFushi / Huvafenfushi

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

Hilton on Rangali / Crown company

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

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Reethi Rah Resort / One & Only

Environment impact assessment study.

Moofushi island Resort

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

Villivaru & Biyadhoo / Ministry of Tourism

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

Mushimas Migilli / Dhoani Migilli

Environment impact assessment study including Harbour development.

Keekimini / Fisheries Project

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

Hudhufushi island Resort / Abdul Rauf

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

Ministry of Health, Malé Maldives

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

Hinnavaru island, Lhaviyani Atoll, Maldives

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

Maadhoo island, Maldives

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

Fuah Mulaku

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

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Mirihi island Resort

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

Hebadhoo island Resort

Hydrographic Study and Environmental impact assessment on harbour Development.

Embudhoo Finolhu island Resort / Taj

Hydrographic Study and Environmental impact assessment on harbour Development.

Shaviyani Atoll (all inhabited islands)

Hydrographic Study and Environmental impact assessment on Harbour Development.

Hulhumeedu island

Hydrographic Study and Environmental impact assessment on Harbour Development.

Kulhuduffushi island Harbour

Hydrographic Study and Environmental impact assessment on Harbour Development.

Vangaaru(shaviyani atoll)

Dh.Eboodhoo/Olhuveli

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

Gdh.Gazeera

Topographic survey for resort construction

ADh.Athurugaa

Topographic survey and Hydrograhic Survey

AA.Thundufushi

Topographic survey and Hydrograhic Survey

Ha.Uligamu

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

STO Building

Set-out survey in Male’,Maldives.

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Velaanaage office Building

Set-out survey in Male’,Maldives.

K.Giraavaru

Topographic survey for Resort Construction

Ga.Handahaa

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

N.Huivani

Topographic survey and Hydrograhic Survey.

N.Minaavaru

Topographic survey and Hydrograhic Survey.

Gdh.Baulhagilaa

Topographic survey and Hydrograhic Survey.

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

Setout Survey of Rendheli Island, Noonu Atoll.

Finolhas Island (Baa atoll) managed by Coastline Maldives

Topographic & Hydrographic Survey of Finolhas Island, Baa Atoll.

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

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

EIA Projects Participated

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

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

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

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

Environmental Impact Assessment for Resort Development in K.Akirifushi, North Male Atoll, Maldives, Akirifushi Investment Pvt. Ltd. Page 126

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

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

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

Employment

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

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

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

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