ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT
FOR THE PROPOSED
FISHERIES AND AGRICULTURAL DEVELOPMENT PROJECT
ON
GAAUNDOODHOO ISLAND, RAA ATOLL
October 2018
Prepared for
Sea Partners Maldives Pvt Ltd, G.Swan lake
Consultant
CDE Consulting, Maldives
ެގުމަކިރެވުޑނަދ ިއާމަކިރެވްސަމ ޫދޫޑނުއާގ.ރ
ްނުޢޫރްޝަމ ެގުމުރުކީޤްއަރަތ ިއަގުތޮގ ެގްއެށަރ
ްޓޯޕިރ ާރުކްނާޔަބ ުރަވްނިމ ެނާރުކުރަސައ ްށަޓްއެވާމިތ
2018 2018 ރަބޯޓްކޮއ
:ުރާޔިދެއ ެގުޢޫރްޝަމ
ސީ ޕާޓްނާރސް މޯލްޑިވްސް ޕވޓ ލޓޑ، ގ.ސްވާން ޭލ ްކ
:ްޓްނަޓްލަސްނޮކ ޭއ.ިއައ.ީއ ެގުޢޫރްޝަމ
ްޑެޓިމިލ ްޓެވިއަރްޕ ީއ.ީޑ.ީސ
EIA for the Proposed Agricultural Development Project in Gaaundoodhoo Island, Raa Atoll
Table of Contents Table of Contents ...... i List of Figures ...... vi List of Tables ...... ix List of Abbreviations ...... x Acknowledgements ...... xi Lead Consultant’s Declaration ...... xii Proponent’s Declaration...... xiii Executive Summary ...... xiv 1 INTRODUCTION ...... 1 1.1 Purpose of the EIA ...... 1
1.2 Project Proponent ...... 1
1.3 Project Background ...... 1
1.4 Statement of Need ...... 2
1.5 Legal Status of Land ...... 2
1.6 Project Scope ...... 2
1.7 Aim and Objectives ...... 3
1.8 Project Location ...... 3
1.9 Consultants, Contractors and Government Institutions...... 8
1.10 Project Financing...... 8
1.11 Scope and Terms of Reference of EIA ...... 8
1.12 Assessment Methodology ...... 9
1.12.1 General Approach ...... 9 1.12.2 The Study Area...... 9 1.12.3 Field Observations ...... 10 1.12.4 Desk Study Review ...... 12 1.12.5 Public and Key Stakeholder Consultation ...... 13 1.12.6 Data Analysis ...... 13 1.12.7 Report Format ...... 13 1.13 Study Team Members ...... 14
1.14 Limitations of the study...... 14
2 PROJECT DESCRIPTION ...... 16 2.1 Project Outline and Project Site Plan ...... 16
2.2 Detailed Project Description and Work Methodology ...... 20
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2.2.1 Access Jetty ...... 20 2.2.2 Administration and Staff Facilities ...... 21 2.2.3 Utilities ...... 21 2.2.4 Storage Facilities ...... 24 2.2.5 Post-Harvest Processing facilities ...... 24 2.2.6 Training and Experience Centre ...... 26 2.2.7 Mariculture Activities ...... 26 2.2.8 Agricultural Activities...... 34 2.2.1 Support Facilities ...... 36 2.3 Project Schedule and Life Span ...... 37
2.4 Labour Requirements and Availability ...... 40
2.5 Waste Management, Logistics and Safety Measures ...... 40
2.5.1 Site Office and Temporary Accommodation ...... 40 2.5.2 Construction Waste Management and Disposal ...... 40 2.5.3 Pollution and Emission Control Measures ...... 40 2.5.4 Sediment Containment and Turbidity Control Measures ...... 40 2.5.5 Health and Safety Measures ...... 41 2.5.6 Emergency Spill Response Plan ...... 41 2.5.7 Utilities ...... 42 2.5.8 Fire Prevention ...... 42 2.6 Summary of Project Inputs and Outputs ...... 42
2.7 Demobilization ...... 44
3 POLICY AND LEGAL FRAMEWORK ...... 45 3.1 Relevant Legislation ...... 45
3.1.1 Environment Protection and Preservation Act (Act no. 4/93)...... 45 3.1.2 Uninhabited Islands Act ...... 46 3.1.3 Hazardous Substances Act...... 46 3.1.4 Employment Act (2/2008) ...... 48 3.1.5 Immigration Act (1/2007) ...... 50 3.1.6 Anti-Human Trafficking Act (12/2013)...... 50 3.1.7 Public Health Protection Act (07/12) ...... 51 3.1.8 Substances Prohibited to be Brought into the Maldives Act (04/75) ...... 51 3.1.9 Pesticides Bill ...... 51 3.2 Relevant Regulations and Guidelines ...... 52
3.2.1 Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations 2012 ...... 52 3.2.2 Regulation on Sand and Coral Mining ...... 52
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3.2.3 Regulation on Cutting Down, Uprooting, Digging Out and Export of Trees and Palms from One Island to Another ...... 53 3.2.4 Regulation on Dredging and Land Reclamation ...... 53 3.2.5 Dewatering Regulation (Regulation No. 2013/R-1697) ...... 54 3.2.6 Waste Management Regulation 2013 ...... 55 3.2.7 The Environmental Liability Regulation (Regulation 2011/R-9) ...... 55 3.2.8 Regulation on Employment of Foreign Workers in the Maldives ...... 56 3.2.9 Vector Control Regulation...... 57 3.3 Environmental Permits Required for the Project ...... 58
3.3.1 Approval of the concept and site plan ...... 58 3.3.2 Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Decision Note ...... 58 3.3.3 Registration of Desalination Plants ...... 58 3.3.4 Domestic Wastewater Disposal Consent ...... 58 3.3.5 Dewatering Permit ...... 58 3.3.6 Aquaculture License ...... 59 3.4 Responsible Institutions ...... 59
3.4.1 Ministry of Fisheries and Agriculture ...... 59 3.4.2 Ministry of Environment and Energy ...... 59 3.4.3 Labour Relations Authority & Employment Tribunal ...... 60 3.4.4 Department of Immigration ...... 60 3.4.5 Maldives Pensions Administration Office ...... 60 3.4.6 Health Protection Agency ...... 60 3.4.7 Ministry of Defence and National Security ...... 60 3.4.8 Atoll Council ...... 61 3.5 Guiding Policies and Documents ...... 61
3.5.1 National Environmental Action Plan II (NEAP II) ...... 61 3.5.2 Waste Management Policy ...... 62 3.6 International Conventions ...... 62
3.6.1 Convention on Biological Diversity ...... 62 3.6.2 International Plant Protection Convention ...... 62 3.6.3 UNFCCC and Kyoto Protocol ...... 63 3.6.4 International labour related commitments ...... 63 3.7 Compliance...... 66
4 EXISTING ENVIRONMENT ...... 68 4.1 Physical Environment ...... 68
4.1.1 Meteorology ...... 68
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4.1.2 Hydrology ...... 74 4.2 Physical Environment ...... 79
4.2.1 Marine Water Quality Assessment ...... 79 4.2.2 Ground Water Quality Assessment ...... 79 4.2.3 Bathymetry ...... 80 4.2.4 Noise ...... 80 4.2.5 Soil ...... 81 4.2.6 Land and Marine Resource Use ...... 82 4.2.7 Coastal Environment ...... 82 4.3 Natural and Biological Environment...... 84
4.3.1 Terrestrial ecology ...... 84 4.3.2 Marine Ecology ...... 90 4.1 Visual Snorkelling Survey ...... 96
4.2 Marine protected areas and sensitive sites ...... 99
4.3 Breeding or nursery grounds for protected or endangered species ...... 99
4.4 Natural Hazard Assessment ...... 99
4.5 Raa Atoll socio-economic setup ...... 100
4.5.1 Population Structure and Migration Characteristics ...... 100 4.5.2 Education ...... 104 4.5.3 Employment and Economic Industries ...... 107 4.5.4 Health Services ...... 110 5 IMPACTS IDENTIFICATION ...... 111 5.1 Introduction ...... 111
5.2 Boundaries of Affected Areas ...... 111
5.3 Impact Identification and Evaluation ...... 111
6 SIGNIFICANT IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES ...... 116 6.1 Environmental Aspects with Significant Impacts ...... 116
6.1.1 Natural Environment ...... 116 6.1.2 Socio-economic Environment ...... 122 6.2 Mitigation Measures for Adverse Impacts ...... 125
7 ALTERNATIVES ...... 130 7.1 “No-project” Alternative ...... 130
7.2 Alternative Design...... 130
7.3 Alternative Irrigation Techniques ...... 131
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7.4 Alternative Water Intake Locations ...... 132
7.5 Alternative Sediment Control Measures ...... 132
8 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN ...... 133 8.1 Environmental management system...... 133
8.2 Management structure and responsibilities ...... 134
8.2.1 Project proponent ...... 135 8.2.2 Ministry of Fisheries and Agriculture ...... 135 8.2.3 Environmental Consultant ...... 135 8.2.4 Environmental Protection Agency ...... 135 8.2.5 Contractor ...... 135 8.3 Management Programme ...... 136
8.4 Communications...... 147
8.5 Monitoring and Reporting Responsibilities ...... 149
8.6 Evaluation...... 150
8.7 EIA Implementation Budget ...... 150
8.8 Health and Safety Management ...... 150
8.9 Grievance Redress Mechanism ...... 153
9 ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING PLAN ...... 154 9.1 Introduction ...... 154
9.2 Objectives of the Monitoring Plan ...... 154
9.3 Before construction ...... 154
9.4 Construction Phase Monitoring Plan ...... 154
9.5 Operating Phase Monitoring Plan ...... 155
9.6 Monitoring Report ...... 163
9.7 Cost of Monitoring ...... 163
9.8 Commitment for Monitoring ...... 163
10 STAKEHOLDER CONSULTATIONS ...... 164 10.1 R.Hulhudhuffaaru Island Council ...... 164
10.2 Island community of R.Hulhudhuffaaru ...... 166
10.3 Raa Atoll Council ...... 167
10.4 Maldives Energy Authority ...... 168
10.5 Ministry of Fisheries and Agriculture ...... 169
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10.6 Marine Research Centre ...... 169
11 POTENTIAL DATA GAPS AND ASSESSMENT LIMITATIONS ...... 171 11.1 Gaps in Information ...... 171
11.2 Uncertainties in Impact Prediction ...... 171
12 CONCLUSIONS ...... 172 REFERENCES ...... 174 APPENDIX A – Terms of Reference ...... 176 APPENDIX B – Site Plan ...... 177 APPENDIX C – Approvals ...... 178 APPENDIX D – Survey Locations ...... 179 APPENDIX E – Beach Profiles ...... 180 APPENDIX F – Water Quality Results ...... 181 APPENDIX G – Bathymetry and Shorelines ...... 182 APPENDIX H – Vegetation Classification ...... 183 APPENDIX I – CV’s of Consultants ...... 184 APPENDIX J – Stakeholder Consultation Attendees ...... 185 APPENDIX K – Commitment Letter ...... 186 APPENDIX L – Atoll Council Acknowledgement ...... 187
List of Figures
Figure 1.1: Location map of Gaaundoodhoo Island ...... 5 Figure 1.2: Satellite images of Gaaundoodhoo Island ...... 6 Figure 1.3: Locality map showing nearby islands and declared environmentally sensitive areas . 7 Figure 1.4: Study Area boundary ...... 10 Figure 2.1: Proposed Site Plan (reduced version) ...... 17 Figure 2.2: Proposed alternative site plan (reduced version) ...... 18 Figure 2.3: Project foot print and Potential Affected Areas ...... 19 Figure 2.4 Cross-sectional design of jetty stilts ...... 20 Figure 2.5: Fuel supply line ...... 23 Figure 2.6: Sea water intake, brine outfall and hatchery outfall ...... 25 Figure 2.7: Production plan of marbled grouper (Epinephelus fuscoguttatus) ...... 27 Figure 2.8: Sample drawing of broodstock tank design ...... 28 Figure 2.9: Diagrammatic plan for hatchery complex, North male (A=larvae culture; B=nursery; c=rotifer tank; D=laboratory/storage/workshop/feed processing; E=wastewater treatment; F=generator plant) ...... 29 Figure 2.10: Diagrammatic plan for algae/rotifer culture ...... 30 Figure 2.11: Diagrammatic plan for multi-purpose facility ...... 30
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Figure 2.12: Diagrammatic plan for larval and nursery culture ...... 31 Figure 2.13: Diagrammatic plan for seawater pump shed ...... 32 Figure 2.14: Grow-out plan for marbled grouper (Epinephelus fuscoguttatus)...... 33 Figure 2.15: Diagrammatic plan for one unit of grow-out cages, top view (surface area: 34x24m) ...... 33 Figure 4.1: Monthly frequencies of wind direction in central Maldives based on National Meteorological Centre 10 year data (adapted from Naseer, 2003) ...... 70 Figure 4.2: 24 year wind frequencies recorded at National Meteorological Centre ...... 70 Figure 4.3: Mean daily wind speed and direction recorded at National Meteorological Centre (1978 to 2004) ...... 71 Figure 4.4: Mean monthly rainfall in Hulhumale’ (1975 – 2004) ...... 72 Figure 4.5: Maximum daily rainfall by year in Hulhule’ (1975 – 2005) (Source: Hay, 2006) .... 72 Figure 4.6: Maximum temperature by year in Hulhulé, 1975 – 2005 (Hay, 2006) ...... 73 Figure 4.7: Predicted tides for April 2017, based on data from Department of Meteorology, Maldives ...... 74 Figure 4.8: Estimated wave conditions around Gaaundoodhoo Island ...... 77 Figure 4.9: Currents measurement at Gaaundoodhoo Island on September 2018 ...... 78 Figure 4.10: Noise level measurement sites ...... 81 Figure 4.11: Vegetation classification results ...... 88 Figure 4.12: locals taking forest products back to the island of Hulhudhuffaaru on small boats . 89 Figure 4.13: Coconuts and dried palm leaves are the most commonly harvested products ...... 89 Figure 4.14: Central parts of the island are very low lying with marshy ground and small puddles ...... 89 Figure 4.15: Abandoned structures are found throughout the northern half of the island ...... 89 Figure 4.16: Vegetation throughout the island is very dense with multiple footpaths available .. 89 Figure 4.17: The old football ground on the island ...... 89 Figure 4.18: Left panel shows an overview of the reef while right panel shows the benthic substrate. (T1-5m, 2018) ...... 90 Figure 4.19: Benthic substrate composition in Transect 1 - 5meters depth (28th September 2018) ...... 91 Figure 4.20: Left panel shows benthic substrate with live coral while right panel shows an over view of the reef with massive rocky block (T2-3m, September 2018) ...... 92 Figure 4.21: Benthic substrate composition in Transect 2 - 3meters depth (28th September 2018) ...... 93 Figure 4.22: Left and right panel shows benthic substrate with massive Porites and Pocillopora live corals. (T3-5meters depth) ...... 94 Figure 4.23: Benthic substrate composition in Transect 3 - 5meters depth (28th September 2018) ...... 95
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Figure 4.24 : Left panel shows the shallow top reef closer to shoreline; right panel shows the spur and grooves...... 97 Figure 4.25: Left and right panel shows an over view of the top reef, with its unique formation of groove and spurs...... 97 Figure 4.26: Left panel shows the benthic substrate pavement, Right panel shows an overview of the shallow top reef...... 98 Figure 4.27: Left and right panel shows an overview of the top reef with live massive corals. ... 98 Figure 4.28: Islands by Population Sizes, R. Atoll, Preliminary results of Census 2014 ...... 100 Figure 4.29: Sex Ratio by Locality, R. Atoll, Preliminary results of census 2014 ...... 102 Figure 4.30: Population Pyramid for R. Atoll, Census 2006 ...... 102 Figure 4.31: Out-Migration from R. Atoll by place of Enumeration, Census 2006 ...... 103 Figure 4.32: In-Migration to R. Atoll by place of Registration, Census 2006 ...... 104 Figure 4.33: Student enrolment in Raa Atoll schools ...... 104 Figure 4.34: Percentage Literate by Locality, R Atoll, Census 2006 ...... 105 Figure 4.35: Percentage literate by Sex and Locality, R Atoll, Census 2006 ...... 106 Figure 4.36 Education Attainment Rates for R. Atoll, Census 2006 ...... 107 Figure 4.37: Labour Force Participation Rate by Locality, R. Atoll Census 2006 ...... 108 Figure 4.38: Labor force Participation by Locality and Sex, R. Atoll, Census 2006 ...... 108 Figure 4.39 Unemployment Rate by Locality, Census 2006 ...... 109 Figure 4.40: Unemployment Rates by Locality and Sex, R. Atoll, Census 2006 ...... 109 Figure 4.41: Employment by Industry, R. Atoll. Census 2006...... 110 Figure 6.1: Estimated vegetation cover affected area ...... 121 Figure 8.1 Environmental Management Strategy flow diagram ...... 134 Figure 8.2: Environmental Management Plan for construction and operation phase ...... 148
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List of Tables
Table 1.1: Summary of key information about the proposed Island...... 3 Table 1.2: Limitation of the study...... 15 Table 2.1: Proposed tentative work plan...... 37 Table 2.2: Main inputs during construction stage ...... 42 Table 2.3: Main outputs during construction stage ...... 43 Table 2.4: Major inputs during operational stage ...... 43 Table 2.5: Major outputs during operational stage ...... 44 Table 3.1: Import-Banned Class - A Chemicals ...... 47 Table 3.2: Summary of Approvals required for the project ...... 66 Table 4.1: Key Meteorological information of the Maldives ...... 68 Table 4.2: Summary of general wind conditions from National Meteorological Centre ...... 69 Table 4.3: Probable maximum precipitation for various periods in Hulhulé (UNDP, 2006) ...... 73 Table 4.4: Tidal variations at Hulhulé Island (Velana International Airport) ...... 74 Table 4.5: Marine water quality assessment results ...... 79 Table 4.6: Results for water quality testing for ground water ...... 80 Table 4.7: Average noise levels recorded at proposed project site ...... 81 Table 4.8: Area and percentage cover by vegetation class ...... 85 Table 4.9: Summary of fish census data along Transect 1-5meters depth...... 91 Table 4.10: Summary of fish census data along Transect 2 - 3 meters depth...... 93 Table 4.11 Summary of fish census data along Transect 3-5 meters depth...... 95 Table 4.12 Average Annual Growth Rate, R. Atoll, Preliminary results of Census 2014 ...... 101 Table 4.13: Medical facilities and distribution of doctors and nurses, Raa atoll, 2006 ...... 110 Table 5.1: Impact Identification Matrix for the project ...... 113 Table 6.1: Suggested mitigation measures for potential adverse impacts ...... 126 Table 7.1: Summary of “No Project” Alternative ...... 130 Table 7.2: Evaluation of irrigation techniques ...... 131 Table 7.3: Summary of Sediment Control Measures ...... 132 Table 8.1: Environmental Management Plan for construction and operation phase ...... 136 Table 9.1: Monitoring Schedule for pre-construction stage (if required) ...... 156 Table 9.2: Monitoring Schedule for construction stage ...... 158 Table 9.3: Monitoring Schedule for operation stage ...... 161 Table 10.1 List of some of the public members consulted ...... 167
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List of Abbreviations
°C Degree Celsius ‰ Parts Per Thousand BOD Biological Oxygen Demand COADS Comprehensive Ocean-Atmosphere Data Set DO Dissolved Oxygen EIA Envrionmental Impact Assessment GPS Global Positioning System ICAO International Civil Aviation Organization IPCC Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change IPPC International Plant Protection Convention IUCN International Union for Conservation of Nature MCAA Maldives Civil Aviation Authoity MEE Ministry of Environment and Energy mg/L Miligram per liter MHI Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure MoFA Ministry of Fisheries and Agriculture MoT Ministry of Tourism MSL Mean Sea Level MWSC Maldives Water and Sewerage Company NAPA National Adaptation Programme of Action NDMC National Disaster Management Centre NE North East NEAP II National Environmental Action Plan II NTU Nephelometric Turbidity Unit NW North West SE South East SW South West TDS Total Dissolved Solids TSS Total Suspended Solids ToR Term of Reference UNFCCC United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and the Kyoto Protocol
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Acknowledgements
The lead author of this report is Dr. Ahmed Shaig.
Additional assessments were undertaken by the following team members.
• Mr. Ali Nishaman (Terrestrial surveying, Stakeholder Consultations and Baseline assessment) • Mr. Mohamed Faizan (Marine assessment) • Ms. Fathimath Shuhaina (Marine assessment) • Mr. Ali Moosa Didi (Beach and bathymetry surveys) • Mr. Mohamed Ali (Marine surveying) • Mr. Ahmed Mahid (Beach surveying)
The curriculum vitae’s of the EIA consultants are attached in Appendix I of this report.
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Lead Consultant’s Declaration
I certify that statements made in this Environment Impact Assessment are true, complete and correct to the best of my knowledge and available information.
Dr. Ahmed Shaig
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Proponent’s Declaration
Intentionally left blank.
(Please Refer to Appendix K)
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Executive Summary
The purpose of this document is to fulfil the requirements to get necessary environmental clearance from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to carry out the proposed fisheries and agricultural development project in Gaaundoodhoo Island, Raa Atoll. The proponent of this project is Sea Partners Maldives Pvt Ltd (C2015/2009, G. Swan Lake, Male’ Maldives). They have a temporary lease agreement with the Ministry of Fisheries and Agriculture for this development with the prospect of a permanent agreement upon approval of this EIA.
The main rationale for the project from the Government perspective is to expand the fisheries and agricultural industry in the atoll, in order to diversify local economy and increase economic and food security. More specifically to advance the growth of grouper export market from the Maldives as it is their core business in this project. The rationale from the Proponents’ perspective is to establish and run a successful business in Raa Atoll which complements their existing grouper export business.
This project involves the establishment of a commercial scale hatchery for grouper farming along with grow-out pens as its core component. Additional activities include developing farming plots, greenhouses and rearing livestock as an agriculture component. The project will also see the development of support infrastructure on the island such as an access jetty, utilities, roads, warehouses, accommodation facilities, training facilities and post-harvest processing facilities. The project is estimated to take 2 to 5 years to achieve full completion of construction works.
All project activities will be in conformance to the laws and regulations of the Maldives, and relevant international conventions that Maldives is party to. The key laws and regulations applicable to this project are Environmental Protection and Preservation Act 1993, Environmental Impact Assessment Regulation 2012, regulation on cutting down trees, and regulation on waste management.
Gaaundoodhoo is an island on the eastern rim of Raa Atoll. The island is a “Gaamathee” island with the centre of the island being of very low elevation and marshy. The island was an inhabited island in the past, and the population has been relocated to Hulhudhuffaaru in 1995. The island is currently under the caretaking of Hulhudhuffaaru council and is regularly used by the locals for harvesting forest products such as coconuts and dried palm leaves. Live coral cover was observed as average on the northern and eastern reef edge. Vegetation cover was high and remains mostly undisturbed. A small patch of mangrove vegetation was observed on the centre of the island with not permanent water bodies being found on the island. Several abandoned structures are observed along the northern half of the island including an old cemetery. The
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shoreline was dominated by beach rock and coarse sand on the lagoon side and finer material facing the ocean side.
Significant adverse impacts of this project during construction phase are anticipated from vegetation clearing on terrestrial biodiversity, impact of sedimentation on the marine water quality and marine life, and the health and safety risks to construction workers. Maricultural activities such as the disposal of waste water from the hatchery and grow-out pens along with agricultural activities such as the use of pesticide and artificial fertilisers, can also have significant negative impacts on the environment during the operational phase. These include soil erosion and loss of soil fertility, and groundwater and marine water contamination. All these impacts can be minimized with proper mitigation measures recommended in the report.
The main mitigation measures during construction include minimising and phasing vegetation clearing, revegetation after construction, carrying out marine construction activities during low tide hours and calm weather, construction of bunds where appropriate to reduce sediment dispersal and avoid adverse sedimentation impacts, and employee training and proper supervision of all activities by qualified personnel. During the operational phase, sustainable agricultural practices, including drip irrigation, crop rotations and composting will be adopted to minimise the impacts associated with intensive agriculture. Regular inspections and maintenance of all tanks will be adopted to minimise the impacts associated with mariculture.
The alternatives evaluated for the project are alternative design, alternative irrigation techniques, alternative water intake locations and alternative sediment control measures. The “No Project” option has also been explored and this option is not deemed preferable.
The management plan for this project is designed to produce a framework for anticipated impacts, including practicable and achievable performance requirements and systems for monitoring, reporting and implementing corrective actions. In addition, it will provide evidence of compliance to legislation, policies, guidelines and requirements of relevant authorities.
The monitoring plan is designed to assess any changes to the coral reef environment of the island, coastal changes as well the groundwater and marine water quality as these are the key areas that may be impacted from this project in the long term. Use of pesticides, artificial fertilisers, fish feed, hormones and irrigation water will also be monitored.
Consultations were carried out with members of Hulhudhuffaaru Island Council, Island community of Hulhudhuffaaru, Raa Atoll Council, Marine Research Centre, Ministry of Fisheries and Agriculture, Maldives Energy Authority and the proponent. Main concerns raised were by the island council and residents of Hulhudhuffaaru as the locals heavily utilise the island for harvesting forest products. However most of them agree that the project can bring new
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opportunities to the region and wishes to work with the proponent to formulate a plan for continued use of the island by the locals. MRC provided information mainly on technical aspects related to the maricultural components of this project, while MEA did not have any comments for the project. The views and opinions of the stakeholders were shared with the proponent and is the key reason for the revised design for the island. The new design leaves more than 50% of the island undisturbed and upon acquiring the island, the proponent is willing to work with the locals to formulate a sustainable harvesting plan for the forest products the locals require.
In conclusion, this project has been designed in conformance to the relevant laws and regulations of Maldives. The most significant environmental impacts are expected to be short-term impacts on the terrestrial environment due to vegetation clearing and marine water quality and marine biodiversity due to construction activities, as well as the potential long-term impacts of intensive agriculture and mariculture on soil, groundwater and marine environment. The most significant socio-economic impacts will be felt by the residents of Hulhudhuffaaru in terms of potential loss of income generating activities. However, mitigation measures have been proposed to minimise these impacts, including certain design changes as well.
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ާސާލުހ ާދާސ
ެނާފްށޮކ ްށަޓްއެވާމިތ ްނެގިޅުގ ިއާއުޢޫރްޝަމ ެގުމުރުކ ްނަކިރެވުޑނަދ ިއާމަކިރެވްސަމ ޫދޫޑނުއާގ.ރިއަގ ީކަޓޯޕިރ ާސާރިދ ިމ
ާވްނުނޭބ ިއަކަޓްށަމުގްނިހ ުޢޫރްޝަމ ީކަމުނޭބ ުޑނަގިއަމ ެގުޓޯޕިރިމ .ެވެކެއާސާރިދ ާވިއަފިވެރުކ ްނުތޮގ ެގުމުރުކްނަޒަވ ުރަސައ
ެގުޢޫރްޝަމިމ .ެވެމުޅެހަށުހ ްށައީސްނެޖެއ ްނަޝްކެޓޮރްޕ ްޓްނެމަރަޔަވްނެއ ްއަތުތާމޫލުއަމ ާވްނުނޭބ ްށައަދްއުހ ެގީށެވާމިތ
އެދިޔާރަކީ ސީ ޕާޓްނާރސް މޯލްޑިވްސް ޕވޓ ލޓޑ،( C2015/2009 ގ.ސްވާން ލޭކް، މާލެ) އެވެ. އެބޭފުޅުން މިހާރުވަނީ
.ެވެއަފާވަގްނަނ ްނުރާކުރަސ ްއަތަދްއުމުގިދ ްށަރިމ
ްތަޔާނިސ ެގުމަކިރެވުޑނަދ ިއާމަކިރެވްސަމ ިއަގުޅޮތައ.ރ ީކަދަސްޤަމ ުޑނަގިއަމ ެގުމުއިދްނެގ ްށަޔިރުކ ުއޫރްޝަމ ިމ
ތަރައްޤީކޮށް، އިޤްތިސާދީ ބިންގާފުޅާކޮށް ކާނާގެ ޔަޤީންކަން އިތުރުކުރުމެވެ. މި ޕްރޮޖެކްޓްގެ މައިގަނޑު ބައެއްގެ ގޮތުގައި ފާނަ
.ެވެއެނެމިހ ްސެވްނުރުކާޅުފ ްށަރުތިއ ިރާފަޔިވ ެގުމުރުކުރޭބ ަނާފ ާދްނުމަގްނިހ ުރާހިމ ްނުޅުފޭބެއ ްށޮކްމިއާޤ ްއެއީރަޗެހ ާރުކ ާލާއ
ްއަތްތަލީސަވ ިއާކަތްތާރާމިއ ާވްނުނޭބ ްށަމުރުކ ްނަކިރެވުޑނަދ ިއާއ ރަޗްލަކިރެމ ިއަގޫދޫޑނުއާގ.ރ ްނުށަދ ެގުއޫރްޝަމިމ
ްއެކަތިށޮކ ަނާފ ިއަގުމަގްއެއ ިދައ ްއެއީރަޗެހ ާރުކ ާލާއ ަނާފ ާވްނުނޭބ ްށައ ރަޗްލަކިރެމ ްނުތޮގިމ .ެވެއެވިއަފިވޭރ ްށަމުރުކާނިބ
ހެދުން ހިމެނެއެވެ. އެހެނިހެން ތަންތަނުގެ ތެރޭގައި ޖެޓީއަކާއި، އިދާރީ އިމާރާތްތަކާއި މުވައްޒަފުންގެ އިމާރާތްތަކާއި، ތަމްރީން
ދިނުމަށް އިމާރާތަކާއި، ފެނާއި ކަރަންޓުގެ ނިޒާމާއި މަގުތަކުގެ އިތުރުން އިރިގޭޝަން ނިޒާމާއި، ނާސަރީއަކާއި، ކުކުޅު ފާމަކާއި،
ގެރިބަކަރި ފާމަކާއި، އަދި ހައިޑްރޮޕޯނިކް ގްރީން ހައުސް ތަކެއް ހެދުން ހިމެނެއެވެ. ހެޗަރީގައި އާލާކުރުމަށް މިވަގުތު ރޭވިފައި
ްށޮކުމްއާއ ިއަގޭޖްއާރ ީކަކަތ ްތަވާބ ާވިއަފިހެޖަމަހ ްށަމުދްނިއ ިއަގުށަރިމ- .ެވެއ ރާޕޫރްގ ްޑްލަބރާމ ްނުއަރްބ ިނަކެއަމަހ ީނަވ
ިއާރަހައ 2 ީނެވެރުކާފަލ ްށަމަކެނާގނިހ ްއަތަދްއުމ ެގުމުރުކްތާރާމިއ ެގުއޫރްޝަމިމ .ެވެކަތްތަވާބ ެގާވޭމ ިއާއީރާކުރަތ ޭޅުއަދްއަހ
.ެވެއަގުދެމެދ ިއާރަހައ 5
.ެވެންނީތަމ ެގުތޮގްއެއ ިއާކަތުދިއަވަޤ ިއާކަތުނޫނާޤ ެގޭޖްއާރިހެވިދ ީނާދްނެގ ްށަޔިރުކ ްސެވްއެކަތްތާކަރަހ ާހިރުހ ެގުއޫރްޝަމ ިމ
ިމ ްނުތޮގިމ .ެވެއެނޭނެމިހ ްސެވްއަތްނުވްސަބްއެއ ީމާވްޤައްލަނިއަބ ިރުހ ިއަފްށޮކިއޮސ ެޖްއާރިހެވިދ ިއަގޭރެތ ެގީމ ިދައ
ިދައ 1993 ްނޫނާޤ ޭހެބ ިއާމުރުކްތަޔާމިހ ިށެވާމިތ ެގޭޖްއާރިހެވިދ ީނަވ ްށަކަދިއަވަޤ ިއާނޫނާޤ ޭޅުގ ެމްނެއ ިއާއުއޫރްޝަމ
.ެވެއ 2012 ުދިއަވަޤ ޭހެބ ިއާމުރުކާސާރިދ ުރަސައ ެނާފްށޮކ ްށަޓްއެވާމިތ
ީންނޮއ ުދްއަޙްއަރަސ ެރެތުދެމ ެގުށަރިމ ިދައ .ެވެކެށަރ ީތަމާގ ްތޮއ ިއަގުތިބަވިއަގްއެޅަފިކ ީތަމުރިއ . ީކަށަރިމރެގުޅޮތައ
.ެވެއެވޯނ ްއެއަފިދެހ ްއެޑނަގްނެފ ަތަވުނ ްއެއިޅުކ ީމިއާދ ްސެވްއެއ ްސެވަމަނ .ެވެށަކަރަތްއަވ ްނިބްސަޗ ްށޮކިރިތ ްށަރަވ
1995 1995 .ެވެނުވެރުކަގަހާފ ްށަމަކިރުހ ްސަގޫޑނަކ ްށަކަރަވ ްސެވެމްނޮކ ިއާކަހަގ ްށަވަޅްއުކ ްނިއ ްނިކަވ ިއަގުދްއަޙަރަސ ޭރެތުދެމ
Prepared by: CDE Consulting Page|xvii EIA for the Proposed Agricultural Development Project in Gaaundoodhoo Island, Raa Atoll
އަހަރާއި ހަމައަށް މިރަށުގައި މީހުން ދިރިއުޅުނު އިރު، މިހާރު އެމީހުންވަނީ ހުޅުދުއްފާރަށް ބަދަލުކުރެވި މިރަށް ބެލެހެއްޓުމުގެ
ްސެވުރާހިމ ްނުށަރިމ ްއަތްތާރާމިއ ްއެއަބ ެގީރުކ ްނުތޮގ ެގްއެނާޝިނ ެގީމ .ެވެއަފިވެރުކުލާވަހ ިއާއްލިސްނުއަކ ުށަރެއ ާމްނިޒ
ެގުށަރ ިމ .ެވެށަމުވޮހްނަފ ިއާޓްއާކ ްނުތިޔްއަރ ުރާފްއުދުޅުހ ީނަދ ްނުމަރުކ ްނުނޭބ ުތުގަވިމ ްށަރިމ .ެވެޓްއުހަބެއ ްނަންނެފ
.ެވެއެވިއަފިވެރުކ ަގަހާފ ްށަމަކްށަކަރަވ ެގިއަދާއ ީރުހ ަކަރުމ ޭރިދ ިއަގޭރެތުރަފ
ުޑނަގިއަމ ެނާފްށޮކ ްށަޓްއެވާމިތ ިއަގާލަހުރަމ ެގުމުރުކްތާރާމިއ ްނުބަބަސ ެގުއޫރްޝަމިމ ިއަގުތޮގުނުވެރުކަގަހާފ ްނިއާސާރިދިމ
ްއަސަމ ްތަކްއަސަމ ިއާމުވުބނަލިކ ުޑނަގުނޮލ ެގުޑނަކ ިއާމުޑނެކްސަގ ްނުކަޔަބ ުޑޮބ ެގުށަރ ީނެނެމިހ ިއަގޭރެތ ެގުކަތުރަސައ ޭވެދޭނ
ްށަޑޮބ ެމްނެއ ިއަގާލަހުރަމ ެގުތަކްއަސަމ ީލަމައ ެގުއޫރްޝަމ .ެވެކަތުރަސައ ެނާފްށޮކ ްށަމަކިރެތާކްއަރ ިއާތަހްއިސ ެގްނުހީމާރުކ
ިއާމިބ ިއާކަތުރަސައ ެނާފްށޮކ ްނުބަބަސ ެގުމުރުކްނުނޭބ ާނާކްސަގ ިއާޑިއަސިޓްސެޕ ިއާމުރުކުރޭބ ްނެފ ީރަޗެހ ީނެވެރުކަގަހާފ
.ެވެކަތްނުލްއެގ ެނާދިބިލ ްއަލުއަހާމ ެގުޑނަކ ިދައ ަލަށަފްނެފ
ިއަގޭރެތެގީމ .ެވެއެވިއަފިނެމިހ ިއަގުޓޯޕިރ ްއަތުޅަވަޔިފ ެނާދިޅެއ ިއަކަޓްށަމުރުކަޑުކ ްއަތްނުލްއެގ ާވިއަފިވެރުކަގަހާފ ިއަގުޓޯޕިރިމ
ްށަމުއިދްނެގ ްށައިރުކ ްއަތްތަކްއަސަމ ިއަގްއެތޮގ ިވިނެޓްއެހެމެދ ިއާކަތުޅަވަޔިފ ެނާޅައ ިއަގާލަހުރަމ ެގުމުރުކްތާރާމިއ
.ެވެއެނާވިއަފިނެމިހ ްއަތްތޮގ ެނާދިވެރުކްނުނޭބ
މި ދިރާސާގައި މަޝްރޫއަށް ގެނެވިދާނެ ބަދަލުތަކަށް ބަލާލާފައިވާނެއެވެ. މިގޮތުން މަޝްރޫޢު ނުހިންގުމާއި، ފެންދެވޭނެ އެހެން
ނިޒާމުތައް ބެލުމާއި، އެހެން އިންޓޭކް ސަރަޙައްދުތަކާއި އަދި ކިލަނބުވުން ކުޑަ ކުރެވޭނެ އެހެން ގޮތްތައް ބަލާލެވިފައިވާނެއެވެ.
ްނުލްއެގ ެނާދިބިލ ްނ ްނުމަކ ަކ ަދަފެއ ިއާށަމުތަގެނެދ ުރަވްނިމާރުކ ްއަތުރަސައ ެނާފްށޮކ ްށަޓްއެވާމިތ ާވިއަފްށޮކްނ ިއަގ ޯޕިރިމުޓާޔަބ
ިއަކަޓްށަމުތަގެނެދ ްނަކްނަކެއ ިއަގްއެތަލާހ ެޖްއެވިތަމިރުކ ްއެމަކ ްތެނިއަފިވެރުކްނާޔަބ ިއަގުޓޯޕިރ ިމ ިދައ ިއާށަމުރުކަޑުކ
ާވިއަފިހެޖަމަހ ްށަމުލެބ ްނުތޮގިމ .ެވެއެވިއަފިހެޖަމަހ ްށަމުރުކްނީރްކްސ ްށަމަކްނަކ ަދަފިމ ިއަގުކަތާލަހުރަމ ިކެއ ެގުއޫރްޝަމ
މައިގަނޑު ކަންތައްތަކުގެ ތެރޭގައި ބިމުގެ ފެންފަށަލައާއި މޫދުގެ ލޮނަށް އަންނަ ބަދަލު ބެލުމާއި، ރަށުގެ އައްސޭރިފަށަށް އަންނަ
ްށަކަތުޑނަދ ިދައ ާނާކްސަގ ިއާޑިއަސިޓްސެޕ ިއާކަތްސޭބ ޭދްށަހަމ ިއާއާނާކްސަމ ިދައ .ެވެއެނެމިހ ްނުރުކާސާރިދ ާލަބ ްއަތުލަދަބ
.ެވެއެނޭލެބ ްސެވުރަވްނިމ ޭވެރުކްނުނޭބ ްނެފ ާވްނުނޭބ
މި މަޝްރޫއުގެ ބައިތަކާއި ބެހޭގޮތުން ރ. އަތޮޅު ކައުންސިލްއާއި ރ.ހުޅުދުއްފާރު ކައުންސިލްއާއި، ރ.ހުޅުދުއްފާރު
ރައްޔިތުންނާއި، މިނިސްޓްރީ އޮފް ފިޝަރިޒް އެންޑް އެގްރިކަލްޗަރއާއި، މެރިން ރީސާޗް ސެންޓަރު އަދި މޯލްޑިވްސް އެނާރޖީ
ްނުމުއިދްނެގ ްށައިރުކ ުއޫރްޝަމިމ ީކަމަކުޑނަގިއަމ ެމްނެއ ުނުވެރުކ ަގަހާފ ްނުކަތްނުވުލަދްއަބ .ެވެނުވެރުކުލަދްއަބ ިއާއީޓިރޯތޮއ
ެގުއޫރްޝަމ ެރުހ ާކަތުބަބަސިމ .ެވެމުރެއުރުބ ްށަކަތަކްއަސަމ ްއެއ ާރުކ ްނުތޮގ ެގުމުދޯހ ިނަދްމާއ ްށައްނުތިޔްއަރ ުރާފްއުދުޅުހ.ރ
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ީނަވ ުރާޔިދެއ ެގުޓޯޕިރ ިމ ިދައ .ެވެއަފާނަމިހ ްއަތުލަދަބ ާނެގ ިއަގުޓޯޕިރ ިމ ިވެނެގ ްއެކަތުލަދަބ ިތެޑޮބ ީނަވ ްށަމުހެރުކ
.ެވެންނުމަވާރ ްނުކަތްތޮގ ެނޭވެރުކ ްތަކްއަސަމ ަގީކެއ ާންނުތިޔްއަރ ެގުރާފްއުދުޅުހ.ރ
ިވެންނެދިމ ްސެވަމަންނެހެއ .ެވެއެވްނެގީށަކެއ ްނުއައ ްއެކަތުލަދަބ ްސެވެމްނޮކްށަޓްއެވ ެގުށަރ ްނުބަބަސ ެގުއޫރްޝަމ ިމ
ަދަފުނުވެންނެދ ަމަނިފްސޮގްނެގ ްށައިރުކ ުޢޫރްޝަމ ެވުލާމަސ ްށަމަކްނަކ ާވިއަފިވެރުކަގަހާފ ްނުތޮގ ެގުމުރުކަޑުކ ްއަތުރަސައ
ބަދަލުތަކުގެ ސަބަބުން ކުރާ ނޭދެވޭ އަސަރުތަށް ވަރަށް ބޮޑަށް ކުޑަކުރެވިދާނެއެވެ. އެހެންކަމުން، މިމަޝްރޫއަކީ އިޤްތިޞާދީ އަދި
ްށަންނުތިޔްއަރ ެގުޅޮތ . ރައ ީކައޫރްޝަމިމ ުކެއާމުވްށަކައޫރްޝަމ ޭގްނިހ ިއަގުދަޞްޤަމ ެގުމުރުކުލިސާހ ްއެކަތާދިއަފ ީއާމިތުޖިއ
.ެވެއެވެލެބ ްށަމަކްއެއޫރްޝަމ ިރުހާދިއަފ ިއަގްއެތޮގަލްމުޖ
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1 INTRODUCTION
1.1 Purpose of the EIA
This Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) report is an evaluation of the potential environmental, socio-economic and natural impacts of the proposed agricultural development project in Gaaundoodhoo Island, Raa Atoll. The project is proposed by a registered company; Sea Partners Maldives Pvt Ltd, G-Swan Lake, Malé Maldives. The EIA consultant is CDE Consulting.
This document has been developed based on the Terms of Reference (Appendix A) issued by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on 05th September 2018. This document is submitted to EPA by the proponent to fulfil the requirements of Environmental Protection and Preservation Act (EPPA) of the Maldives (4/93), more specifically the clause 5 of the Act which states that a report should be submitted before implementation of any project that may have a potential impact on the environment.
1.2 Project Proponent
The proponent of the project is Sea Partners Maldives Pvt Ltd (Registration number: C2015/2009). They have no existing activities on the island.
Contact details for the proponent are:
Sea Partners Maldives Pvt Ltd G. Swan Lake, Malé Republic of Maldives Tel: + (960) 3307747
1.3 Project Background
Gaaundoodhoo Island is currently under the caretaking of R.Hulhudhuffaaru Island Council and is mainly used by the locals of Hulhudhuffaaru to harvest palm leaves and coconuts.
The proponent plans to establish a commercial scale fisheries and agricultural development project on the island, including the establishment of certain infrastructure to support the project. After consultations with the locals of Hulhudhuffaaru, the proponent also wishes to redesign the scope of the project to harmonise with the needs of the locals.
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The design enables the island to become a major fisheries and agricultural production centre for supplying produce and other products to surrounding islands/resorts as well as complement the existing export business (live groupers) of the proponent.
The proponent plans to fully complete the island’s infrastructure developments over a period of 2-5 years.
1.4 Statement of Need
The national vision 2020 and Strategic Economic Plan urges to diversify and expand the economy. An area of focus has been to revive the fisheries and agricultural sector to reduce our reliance on food imports to improve food security. In the Maldives, most staple foods are imported, thus raising questions of food insecurity and vulnerability to external shocks. This project is part of the effort to expand fisheries and agricultural activities in Raa Atoll and the Country. Additionally, a major component of the project is to establish a mariculture farm on the island that directly contributes to export of live fishes, thereby expanding the export market for it as well as reducing the impact on local natural resources.
There are known business opportunities in farming of high-value agricultural products and live fisheries products to save foreign exchange as well as to provide alternative employment and income for the Maldivians who are currently not economically active.
1.5 Legal Status of Land
Gaaundoodhoo Island has been leased to the proponent for a period of 21 year from 8 June 2018, contingent on the completion of the following pre-requisites put forward by the Ministry of Fisheries and Agriculture;
• The detailed work plan for the project (21 years) • This Environment Impact Assessment Report for R. Gaaundoodhoo • Receipt from MIRA for the acquisition fee of this Island
A 90-day period has been given to the proponent to complete the above requirements.
1.6 Project Scope
The project involves the developing and operation of Gaaundoodhoo Island, Raa Atoll, as a fisheries and agricultural island. The main components of the project are physical infrastructure development and undertaking fisheries and agricultural farming activities. These include constructing an access jetty, hatcheries, farming plots, livestock production, and supporting
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infrastructure for post-harvest processing, storage, utilities and staff facilities. See next chapter for more details.
1.7 Aim and Objectives
The aim of this project is to develop a profitable fisheries and agricultural business, strengthen both sectors and provide employment opportunities in Raa Atoll.
The specific objectives are to:
1. Development of support infrastructure 2. Cultivate fruits, vegetables, herbs and ornamental plants 3. Farm Groupers and Sea cucumbers in hatcheries 4. Rear agricultural livestock (Poultry & Goats) 5. Produce value-added fisheries and agricultural products 6. Provide employment opportunities to locals and to reduce reliance on foreign labour in the sector 7. Reduce import of agricultural produce by the tourism sector 8. Increase export of fisheries products 9. Improve nutrition and increase food security
1.8 Project Location
Gaaundoodhoo Island is located on the eastern rim of Raa Atoll. The project site encompasses 14.6 Ha~ of vegetated area of the island and its surrounding reef system.
The nearest inhabited islands are Hulhudhuffaaru (800m), Angolhitheemu (4.3km), Rasgatheemu (5.9km) and Ungoofaaru (8.5km). The nearest resort is Faarufushi (5.5km), opening December 2018.
Site location map and satellite image is presented in Figure 1.1 and Figure 1.2 respectively. The Table below summarizes some key information about the island.
Table 1.1: Summary of key information about the proposed Island
Island Name R. Gaaundoodhoo Island Alternative names Undoodhoo (referred to by atoll locals) Location 5°44'58.06"N 73° 0'57.15"E Length About 460 m Width at the widest point About 410 m Land Area (within vegetation) About 14.6 ha. Distance to Velana Int. Airport About 180 km
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Distance to Male’ City About 181 km Distance to nearest airport About 3.7 km to Ifuru Airport Distance to nearest resort About 5.5 km to Faarufushi (opening Dec 2018) Distance to nearest inhabited islands 800m to Hulhudhuffaaru
Environmentally sensitive sites in the vicinity
There are no environmentally sensitive sites within a 15 km range of Gaaundoodhoo island. The nearest environmentally sensitive sites listed in the EPA website is 15.5 km west in Kandoogandu island, a mangrove area on an uninhabited island (see Figure 1.3). Other sensitive sites listed include, Kuramaadhoo (19.4 km NE), Dhathaafaru (17.8 km NE), Fodhdhipparu (21.2 km E), Gemanaa (23.7 km S), Vandhoo (24 km S) and Thaburudhdhufaru (24.6 km SE).
Existing Site Conditions
The proposed site was historically an inhabited island and the residents were relocated to Hulhudhuffaaru from 1992 to 1995. Currently the island is under the caretaking of Hulhudhuffaaru Island Council and is mainly used by the locals to harvest palm leaves and coconuts.
The only clearing found on the island is an old football ground (now overgrown by weeds) near the eastern shoreline. There are multiple footpaths going all across the island and large parts of the central area are slightly swampy due to islands low elevation and accumulation of green waste. There are also several abandoned structures (left by previous residents) observed along the northern and north-western sides of the island including a cemetery.
There are no clear entrance channels in the surrounding reef, however, boats can access the island from northern side. Small “dinghy” boats can access the island during both tides, but will require getting into the water.
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Figure 1.1: Location map of Gaaundoodhoo Island
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Figure 1.2: Satellite images of Gaaundoodhoo Island
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Figure 1.3: Locality map showing nearby islands and declared environmentally sensitive areas
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1.9 Consultants, Contractors and Government Institutions
All the EIA related work is undertaken by consultants from CDE Consulting. Design criteria and technical specifications have been developed by the proponent.
The Government agencies relevant to this development are the Ministry of Fisheries and Agriculture (MoFA).
All coordination related to the project will be carried out by a project team established by the proponent.
1.10 Project Financing
It is estimated that the project will cost around MVR 5 million. No donor agencies are involved in this project. The project is financed through self-funds and bank loans.
1.11 Scope and Terms of Reference of EIA
The scope of this EIA is broadly based on the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations 2012. The assessment more specifically adheres to the Terms of Reference (ToR) issued by the Environmental Protection Agency on 05th September 2018. The ToR is based on scoping meetings held between the stakeholders on 05th September 2018. A copy of the ToR is attached in Appendix A.
The EIA report contains the following main aspects.
A description of the project including the need for the project, how the project will be undertaken, full description of the relevant parts of the project, implementation schedules, site plans and summary of project inputs and outputs (Chapter 1&2).
A description of the pertinent national and international legislation, regulations and policies that are relevant and applicable to the project and a demonstration of how the project conforms to these aspects (Chapter 3)
Information about the exiting baseline environmental conditions of the site. These include coastal and marine environment of the site and natural hazard vulnerability of the site (Chapter 4).
An assessment of the potential impacts during both construction and operational stages of the project as well as identification and cost of the potential mitigation measures to prevent or reduce significant negative impacts during both construction and operation stages of the project (Chapter 5).
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Assessment of alternatives for the proposed project (Chapter 6)
Details of the environmental monitoring plan (Chapter 7).
Potential gaps in information (Chapter 8)
Main conclusions (Chapter 9)
1.12 Assessment Methodology
1.12.1 General Approach
This EIA is broadly guided by the EIA Regulations 2012.
This report has been prepared to ensure that the significant environmental and social impacts of the proposed project at the preconstruction, construction, operation and demobilising stages have been considered and assessed at the project planning phase.
The process followed in the preparation of this EIA report consists of six parts. These are: scoping consultations; literature review; field surveys; stakeholder consultations; analysis of results; and compilation of the assessment in the form of a report.
In order to conduct a broad based and inclusive study, the proponent and the consultant have from the onset ensured the exercise is participatory. As such, discussions have been held with community members in the projects area and relevant stakeholders with the assistance and coordination of the proponent.
Much of the baseline information for this study is based on the original EIA. The rest of this section summarises the methods used in the original EIA.
1.12.2 The Study Area
The area impacted by projects like these can be quite wide particularly when the socio-economic impacts are considered. The study area of this project considers that the Island of Gaaundoodhoo and much of the reef system of the island will be affected by the development and that Hulhudhuffaaru Island will experience the bulk of the socio-economic change along with additional benefits to other inhabited islands of Raa atoll.
Based on the results of the initial scoping of potential environmental impacts and the identification of sensitive aspects of the environment we have identified the following geographical areas likely to be affected at the various stages of the Project:
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• During construction temporary and permanent impacts will occur primarily on Gaaundoodhoo and the reef system with 500 m radius of the project foot print. The most direct physical impact will be on-site in the area of the actual physical interventions, particularly vegetation removal, excavation foot prints and coastal development footprints. To ensure the impacts are fully covered the entire island and surrounding reef environment system is studied. • During operation of the island most impacts will be confined to Gaaundoodhoo. • There will also be induced development impacts due to the project, mainly in the form of socio-economic benefits and impacts to Hulhudhuffaaru and other inhabited islands of Raa atoll. Study area boundary is presented in Figure 1.4 and survey locations map for the project is attached in Appendix D.
Figure 1.4: Study Area boundary
1.12.3 Field Observations
Field assessments were undertaken in Gaaundoodhoo from 28th – 30th September 2018. Field visits mainly covered water quality, flora, fauna, soil conditions, marine environment and lagoon condition of the proposed project sites. In addition, stakeholder consultations were carried out in Hulhudhuffaaru.
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Coastal Processes
Beach profiles were taken from designated locations around the island using standard levelling techniques. These profile locations are marked in Appendix D. The measurement of beach profiles involves standard practice of surveying with a staff and a dumpy level. Measurements were taken along the beach profile line at different intervals, wherever there occurred a distinctive morphological feature, such as beach ridge, high water mark, an erosion scarp, dip, rise, or other significant break in the beach slope up to a minimum distance of 30 m from the Benchmark. Other beach attributes such as beach rock were marked using handheld GPS.
Lagoon currents were measures using drogue method. About 3 measurements were undertaken from every site and an average value is determined.
Tide data has been taken from Male’ International Airport Tide Gauge.
Wave patterns have been estimated using secondary studies and visual field assessments.
Marine Assessments
Photo Quadrat Survey
The benthic composition of the substrate was assessed by taking ten high-resolution images every 5 m (pictures covering 0.5m2 of the seabed) along the same transect line used for the fish surveys. These were later analysed using CPCe. CPCe, or Coral Point Count with excel extension, developed by the National Coral Reef Institute, is software designed to determine coral community coverage and diversity using transect photographs. Underwater photographic frames are overlaid by a matrix of randomly generated points, and the fauna/flora of species or substrate type lying beneath each point is identified. 20 random points per picture were analysed to characterize the substrate composition (sample size: 200 points per transect).
Fish census
Fish and invertebrate species assemblages and abundance was surveyed using 50 m line transects, whereby the monitor swam along transect and recorded the number and the different species of fish and invertebrates observed within 2.5 m either side of the transect line.
A category-based methodology was adopted to estimate fish abundance and the mean number of fish per category and observation was extracted to estimate species and family abundance. The categories used to estimate abundance were 1: 1, 2: 2 – 4, 3: 5 – 16, 4: 17 – 64, and 5: 5 - 256.
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Timed swim
Timed swim carried out at select locations of the shallow lagoon, to qualitatively determine the benthic substrate composition at these locations. Swims were timed at 5 minutes, during which two observed swam across the site noting down the main benthic substrates, seagrass and coral species observed. Three replicate swims were made at each site.
Water Quality
Water samples were collected from sea and ground at and around the affected areas of the project.
Seawater samples were collected in clean 1500 ml PET bottles at mid-water level. At each sampling point sampling bottle was rinsed by filling it to three-quarters with the water from the sampling point. Once the bottle was rinsed, seawater sample was collected from 1 m depth or mid-water level where depth is less than 1 m. Samples were stored in an icebox and transferred to MWSC Quality Assurance Laboratory. All samples were tested for pH, Salinity, Temperature, Turbidity, Sedimentation Rate, Ammonia, Nitrate, Phosphate, Sulphate, Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD).
Groundwater samples were collected from existing dug wells, all samples were collected from mid-water level in clean 1500 ml PET bottles after rinsing with water from the sampling points. Samples for microbial testing were taken in sampling bags provided by the laboratory. All samples were stored in an icebox and transferred to MWSC Quality Assurance Laboratory. All groundwater samples were tested for Temperature, pH, Salinity, Ammonia, Phosphate, Sulphate, Total Coliforms and Faecal Coliforms.
Terrestrial Flora and Fauna
Terrestrial fauna was limited to visual observations during the period of the survey.
The main methodology used for vegetation assessment was vegetation transect method and remote sensing. The vegetation transect method involves recording the species and their abundance along specific lines across the island. There were a number of footpaths across the island. Transects are used mainly to record species abundance and occurrence.
1.12.4 Desk Study Review
A literature review was conducted to acquire background information on the site and its environment as well as to identify possible environmental impacts of similar developments in island settings. In this context, the EIA Regulations 2012, best practices from similar
Prepared by: CDE Consulting Page|12 EIA for the Proposed Agricultural Development Project in Gaaundoodhoo Island, Raa Atoll development activities, scientific studies undertaken in similar settings around Maldives and previous documents/historical publications was considered.
The literature review comprised of, but is not limited to, the following:
• EIA for agricultural development in Sh. Madidhoo Island • EIA for agricultural development in N. Minaavaru Island • EIA for agricultural development in L. Kudafushi Island • Master plan concept submitted by the proponent to Ministry of Fisheries and Agriculture. • Relevant regulations, including fisheries and agriculture regulations, Dewatering Regulation and Regulation on cutting down and uprooting trees.
1.12.5 Public and Key Stakeholder Consultation
Stakeholder consultations were undertaken with the following stakeholders:
• Raa Atoll Council (in R.Ungoofaaru) • Raa Hulhudhuffaaru Island Council • Door-to-door consultations in R.Hulhudhuffaaru • Ministry of Fisheries and Agriculture • Marine Research Centre • Maldives Energy Authority • The proponent
1.12.6 Data Analysis
The EIA experts used their experience and knowledge in their respective fields to analyze the data from the previous studies and field visits in order to determine the potential impacts of the proposed projects, the severity of effects arising from these impacts and how any adverse impacts can be best mitigated and positive impacts enhanced. This analysis provides the framework for the recommendations on corrective actions and remedial measures and provides the basis for the formulation of the environmental management plan which forms part of this EIA.
1.12.7 Report Format
The report format and structure presented here follows the report formatting guidelines issued by EPA.
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1.13 Study Team Members
The team members of this EIA are: Dr. Ahmed Shaig (EIA and coastal environment specialist) Mr. Ali Nishaman (Terrestrial surveying, stakeholder consultations) Mr. Mohamed Faizan (Marine assessment) Ms. Fathimath Shuhaina (Marine assessment) Mr. Ali Moosa Didi (Beach and bathymetry surveys) Mr. Mohamed Ali (Marine surveying) Mr. Ahmed Mahid (Beach surveying) The curriculum vitae’s of the EIA consultants are attached in Appendix I of this report
1.14 Limitations of the study
Detailed project information was not fully prepared or decided during the conduct of this study. However, available documents in connection with data provided, particularly the concept plan, experiences of CDE in other islands, particularly in fisheries and agricultural development assessments were used as the basis for preparation of this document. Therefore, it will be possible to analyse, implement mitigation and suggest monitoring measures to the most relevant negative impacts.
Environmental impact prediction involves a certain degree of uncertainty as the natural and anthropogenic impacts can vary from place to place due to even slight differences in ecological, geomorphological or social conditions in a particular place. As noted earlier, there is also no long-term data and information regarding the particular site under consideration, which makes it difficult to predict impacts. However, the level of uncertainty is partially minimised due to the experience of other developments and operations in similar settings in the Maldives. Nevertheless, it is important to consider that there will be uncertainties and voluntary monitoring of natural processes as described in the monitoring programme is absolutely essential.
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The table below summarizes the limitation of this study.
Table 1.2: Limitation of the study
Issue/Item Required Information Current Status / action Detailed Master Final Master Plan for At present, there is a concept plan for Plan of Gaaundoodhoo discussed with Gaaundoodhoo but the details need to be Gaaundoodhoo and approved by Ministry of developed further based upon consultations Fisheries and Agriculture with the locals of Hulhudhuffaaru before committing to permanent access facilities on this island. Engineering Detailed engineering designs for Details can only be worked out after the EIA designs the land-based structures to approval and is up to the proponent to determine the extent of determine these details excavations and chemicals to be used in construction Details of the utility Exact model of the desalination Use concept plan. Base the assessment on machinery and plant and power plant is required minimal requirement of the EPA for the equipment and to determine the process flows establishment of these facilities. location and procedures Location of the buildings, outfall is likely to Exact location of the outfall is change after field surveys required Natural Hazard Detailed modelling of flooding Data not available at local level; use broad Risks and storm damage risks level studies undertaken for Maldives Demand for Detailed demand analysis Not available; Use the existing data from Fisheries and forecasts for the next 10 years published sources Agricultural Produce Environmental Historical and long-term records Baseline snapshots of the site taken to design baseline data on reef and lagoon environment. mitigation measures Detailed data on geology, Estimated based on other similar studies in hydrogeology and soil. Maldives Detailed topography of the Assumed as pristine island Wave Modelling Long to Medium-term site- Not enough time to collect data; no facilities in specific data Maldives to undertake high level modelling; Current Modelling Long to Medium-term site- Not enough time to collect data; no facilities in specific data Maldives to undertake high level modelling; Sediment plume Long to Medium-term site- Not enough time to collect data; no facilities in dispersal modelling specific data Maldives to undertake high level modelling
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2 PROJECT DESCRIPTION
2.1 Project Outline and Project Site Plan
During this EIA analysis, it was identified that the proposed site plan is not acceptable on grounds that there are sites to be protected (old cemetery of Hulhudhuffaaru residents) and a large area of the southern half of the island is very low lying, marshy and even observing a few mangroves. Thus, the proponent was advised by the EIA team to consider the alternative site plan prepared by the EIA team. The proponent has accepted the new plan. The analysis of the alternatives is presented in the Alternative Chapter (Chapter 7). Given this change, the rest of the EIA will use the proposed alterative site plan for impact analysis.
The proposed original site plan and the proposed revised site plan is presented in Appendix B. A Reduced version of both site plan(s) is provided in Figure 2.1 below and Figure 2.2.
This project involves the establishment of commercial farming plots, hatcheries, along with supporting infrastructure for post-harvest processing, storage and staff facilities. The development of these activities on this island will be phased out over a period of 2 to 5 years to fully complete all the sub-components. Currently, no staff members have been stationed on the island as caretakers or workers, with the client ready for mobilisation once the EIA is approved.
The main components of the project are as follows;
1. Physical infrastructures, including; 2. Commercial activities, including; a. Access facilities a. Mariculture (Grouper farming mainly) b. Administration facilities b. Agro-Forestry activities c. Staff facilities c. Open Agriculture d. Training and Experience centre d. Nursery e. Hatchery complex and grow-out pens) e. Livestock activities (Poultry and Goat f. Utilities Rearing) g. Irrigation and rainwater harvesting f. Protected Agriculture (Hydroponic h. Storage facilities greenhouses) i. Post-harvest processing facilities
j. Recreation facilities k. Support facilities l. Roads and pathways
The next section provides the details of the project components.
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Figure 2.1: Proposed Site Plan (reduced version)
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Figure 2.2: Proposed alternative site plan (reduced version)
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Figure 2.3: Project foot print and Potential Affected Areas
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2.2 Detailed Project Description and Work Methodology
2.2.1 Access Jetty
Island access infrastructure will consist of one jetty on the northern side of the island. The wave conditions around the island are expected to be moderately high during most parts of the year.
Design Criteria
General Specifications
• The proposed jetty will be 60 m long. • Foundation of the timber decking will be provided by concrete stilts (columns) • The footings and stilts will be cast on land and placed in the required position. • Concrete cross beams will be constructed to hold the stilts in place and support the concrete decking that will be constructed. • The jetty surface will be assembled using treated wood. • All construction will be based on reinforced concrete using cement, aggregate and imported river sand.
The cross-sectional design of the stilts is shown in the figure below.
Figure 2.4 Cross-sectional design of jetty stilts
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2.2.2 Administration and Staff Facilities
A main administrative building will be constructed to operate as base for management of all activities on island. This area will house the communications facilities, record keeping and managerial offices.
The following staff facilities will also be developed.
• Staff accommodation blocks – 2 blocks • Mess room – 1 building • Mosque • Recreation facilities (1 football pitch and 1 badminton court)
All buildings will be constructed on concrete foundations up to a maximum of one storey. All structures will have roofing systems designed to collect rainwater.
2.2.3 Utilities
2.2.3.1 Roads
A number of roads will be developed to provide access to farming areas. A semi-ring road will be constructed along with a number of subsidiary routes. All roads will be dirt roads and the sides will be used to replant trees cleared during construction. Great care will be taken to revise the design to not cut down any large trees where possible during road construction.
2.2.3.2 Water Supply and Irrigation Infrastructure
A 50 tonne-per-day desalination plant will be installed during construction.
During operations the same 50 tonne-per-day plant will be used. If required, an additional 50 tonne-per-day plant will be installed.
The desalination plant building will be sound and vibration proofed. It will share the building with the power plant.
Seawater intake for desalination will be using borehole near the desalination plant house. Brine discharge will be located on the eastern side (see Figure 2.6).
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Two rainwater tanks with capacity of 100 tonnes will be installed initially, and further expanded if required. The concept plan for the island includes the location of potential rainwater tank placements.
An irrigation system will be installed across the island to supply water to the fields and other facilities. Water supply to the irrigation system will be a combination of desalinated water and rainwater where available.
Drip irrigation will be used in all the greenhouses and shade houses. Drip irrigation will also be used for watering some of the open field crops.
A main pump house and smaller pump stations on a needs-basis will be constructed to manage the combination of water sources and flow. Groundwater will not be frequently used for irrigation. It will be utilized for flush tanks.
The exact amount of water required for irrigation is difficult to determine, since water requirements depend on several factors, and lack of availability of detailed data for similar projects in similar conditions. However, a crude estimate of water requirement can be outlined from similar agricultural projects.
Felivaru (Noonu Atoll) which was developed by the Fantasy Pvt Ltd with an agricultural land area of 1.3 hectares, have a water requirement of 8 cubic meters per day on dry season and 6 cubic meters per day during wet season.
The total land area of agricultural fields in Gaaundoodhoo (during phase 1, excluding expansion plans) with the additional greenhouses is approximately <0.5 hectares, but not all of these fields will be in use at any given time. Hence, the water requirement for Gaaundoodhoo based on these figures is estimated at 3.1 m3/ day and 2.3 m3/day in the dry and wet season respectively.
2.2.3.3 Power Supply and Fuel Storage
The powerhouse building will house two 200 kVA prime fuel oil generation sets and will be sound and vibration proofed. Fuel will be stored on site about 30 m from the power house and in appropriately bunded storage tanks. It is not expected that both will be used at the same time, as one is most likely to be used as a backup. A 90m supply line will be established from the jetty to the storage site to minimise oil spills during operation phase (see figure 2.5).
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Figure 2.5: Fuel supply line
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2.2.3.4 Waste Management Plan
A waste management site will be established on the south-eastern side of the island, away from the main facilities. The site will be demarcated using boundary walls and equipped with basic waste management equipment. Specific areas will be designated for waste sorting, especially for temporary green waste storage. A shredder will be placed for green waste which will be composted to be used as fertilizer and mulch where applicable.
No detailed composting plans has been developed during the time of doing the EIA. Some form of simple open-pit composting activities may be carried out on the island, and is planned to be expanded if applicable in the future.
2.2.3.5 Sewerage System
The sewage system will include septic tanks and will be cleaned on a regular basis. Raw sewage will not be dumped without prior treatment. Although the initial plan included a sewage treatment plant, upon consultations with the proponent, due to the limited number of persons stationed on the island, it was later removed.
2.2.4 Storage Facilities
A number of storage units will be developed near the processing units at the main compound of the island. These units will be used to store agricultural produce, processed goods, stock and spare parts needed for operations. Adjacent to the processing facilities, some chill rooms will also be placed to store fresh produce if needed.
2.2.5 Post-Harvest Processing facilities
Post- Harvest Processing units will be located in between the open farms and storage facilities of the island in close proximity to the administrative facilities. The Post-Harvest processing units will comprise mainly of a packaging facility.
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Figure 2.6: Sea water intake, brine outfall and hatchery outfall
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2.2.6 Training and Experience Centre
A resource centre (mainly for research) and a training facility will be developed on the island. The resource centre plans to undertake fisheries and agriculture related training, in the fields of mariculture, general agriculture, livestock management and protected agriculture, and to disseminate the information gathered by the centre. Support facilities for this include 2 student/visitor accommodation blocks as well as demonstration farms for students.
Details of the activities intended for the research and training facilities have not been developed yet and is intended for a second phase of the project.
2.2.7 Mariculture Activities
The main scope of the island’s development plan is to establish a grouper hatchery complex and inland cage culture system to farm marbled groupers (Epinephelus fuscoguttatus). The total capacity of the hatchery is 1 million seeds per annum, but only 50% of this potential is estimated to be achievable during the initial stage. After the first few years, the project will be evaluated and a revised business plan will be produced for up-scaling to a 10 million seeds on the basis of experience gained during this time.
2.2.7.1 Production Plan
The project aims to develop the capacity to produce 1 million seeds annually, to be achieved over 8 runs per year. Cage culture practices are planned to start operating in the subsequent years, when 50% of potential capacity will be achieved, and will be producing at 100% of their potential capacity at the end. The project is based on full-cycle culture, meaning without causing any adverse impact to wild stocks. A full cycle comprises spawning of captive broodstock, collection of fertilized eggs, larvae rearing, fingerling production, grow-out in sea cages, and marketing. A full cycle takes 11 to 12 months, depending on the market requirement. The individual body weight of marketable fish varies between 0.4 and 1.2 kg, depending on the current market preference and on the species. The project aims to grow out marbled grouper to an individual body weight of 0.5 kg. Production plans, including the duration of production phases and survival rates between production stages, are summarized in the figure below using a production of 35 tons per harvest as an example.
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Figure 2.7: Production plan of marbled grouper (Epinephelus fuscoguttatus)
These production plans follow the development of a batch of eggs through the various production phases (spawning, larval culture, nursery, and grow-out). Initially, for the project, the yearly production will amount to 35 tons. This yearly production will be attained by 3-4 harvests per year for each grow-out unit. Broodstock will be kept in cages. Fertilized eggs are collected from the cages and transferred into tanks in the larvae culture unit for hatching. The larvae are fed with live feed (rotifers, copepods and artemia) initially and at an age of 20 days, artificial feed (granules) is added in increasing proportion up to an age of 40-45 days. Thereafter the fish are transferred to the nursery tank where they are fed with formulated feed or minced trash fish until they have reached a total length of 5-10 cm. The fingerlings of 5-10 cm TL are then ready for stocking in cages and can be fed with formulated floating pellets incorporating with fish processing offals silage.
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2.2.7.2 Broodstock
Mature females may weight around 3-5 Kg and males normally more than 8-10 Kg. Since, males are larger and older obtaining enough males is very important in the brood stock development.
Sex reversal of females to obtain enough males is important technique in brood stock management. Adult females are injected with 17 Methyltestosterone in silastic capsules at a dose of 4-5 mg/kg body weight and the implanted ones will be functional males after 7-10 weeks. Spermiation can be maintained by implanting capsules every 3 weeks. Brood stock will be developed in net cages of 5x5x2.5 m, feeding with cheaper trash fish formulated diet incorporated with waste from fish processing @ 2-3 % of the body weight daily. These reared fishes can be transferred to 100-150-ton tanks during the spawning season. Broodstock of male and female can be stocked in the ratio of 1:3 in the tanks. Daily water exchange to about 50% will be done. Before full moon or new moon days normal spawning period 80% water exchange will be done. In many cases normal spawning will be obtained.
If necessary, the spawning will be induced through administration of hormones like Pubergon hormone (PBG) and Human Chorionic Gonodotropin (HCG) or Luetinizing Hormone or Releasing Hormone- analogue (LHRH-a) will be administered in fishes with oozyte size of more than 450 µm and released in the spawning tanks.
Figure 2.8: Sample drawing of broodstock tank design
2.2.7.3 Spawning
The spawning will be spontaneous and the floating fertilized eggs will be collected by siphoning or scooping. Individual fish may spawn 0.5 to 3 million in a single spawning and the process may continue for many subsequent days.
2.2.7.4 Incubation and hatching
The floating eggs with oozyte diameter of more than 850 µm will be transferred to the hatching tank of funnel shaped conical tank with density of 500-600 nos./liter. The larvae will be hatched out after 17-19 hrs after spawning.
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2.2.7.5 Larval rearing
Grouper larvae are most sensitive. Small in size (less than 1.5 mm), metamorphosis in groupers larvae require 2-3 weeks.
Larvae will initially be fed with small rotifers (SS type) less than 70-80 micron size. To increase the nutritional quality of the live feed, enrichment with HUFA will be done. Larvae are fed with rotifers upto 10-15 days after which, brine shrimp Artemia nauplii are given.
Rectangular rearing tanks of 5-10 m3 will be used. Grouper larval tanks are supplied with micro algae like Nannochloropsis sp or Tetraselmis sp or Isochrysis sp. The micro algae provide a shading effect; provides food for the live prey rotifers / copepods added to the tanks. Larval survival in groupers generally is less than 15%.
2.2.7.6 Hatchery design
A modular system is designed for easy replication when scaling up the capacity of the system and to ensure safety features for the workers and fish health considerations. An aquaculture effluent treatment system will be installed and all the probable organic load will be reduced with proper treatments and the water quality will be maintained as that of natural water before let out from the hatchery complex. The treated water can possibly be re-used for the hatchery operation and for by-product production. The roof of a unit is made of polycarbonate when sunlight is essential. Polycarbonate is very durable and transparent for day / night cycle. When necessary, shade cloth will be used to obtain a desired light transmission. A water proof sealant (non-toxic) will be used for the floor. Wherever necessary, appropriate higher strength reinforced concrete will be used for better support of heavy weight on the floor (e.g. large tanks in the nursery).
Figure 2.9: Diagrammatic plan for hatchery complex, North male (A=larvae culture; B=nursery; c=rotifer tank; D=laboratory/storage/workshop/feed processing; E=wastewater treatment; F=generator plant)
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2.2.7.7 Algae / Rotifer culture
Presently, 9 rotifer culture tanks are planned. For up-scaling, more rotifer tanks can be added. There is no roofing. All the preparations will be done in the algae laboratory.
Figure 2.10: Diagrammatic plan for algae/rotifer culture
2.2.7.8 Algae laboratory / storage / workshop / feed processing
The multiple-purpose facility is an enclosed building with concrete flooring, walls and roof tiles. Rotifer and other live feed stocks will be kept and maintained in the lab. An algae reservoir stores alga prior to transfer to rotifer tanks. The feed storage room is air-conditioned for storage of dry formulated feeds and raw ingredients. The feed processing room consists of freezers and feed processing equipment. Wet feeds, trash fish and other moist ingredients are kept in freezers. The workshop functions as a handyman workshop. It stores all the equipment and tools for handiwork and servicing and maintenance of equipment.
Figure 2.11: Diagrammatic plan for multi-purpose facility
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2.2.7.9 Larval and nursery culture
The design consists of 2 separate units, each with a similar set of tanks and layout. Common roof of polycarbonate covers both units. The larval tank is enclosed by walls while the nursery unit is not serviced by a common facility.
Figure 2.12: Diagrammatic plan for larval and nursery culture
2.2.7.10 Hatchery wastewater treatment
The wastewater concept uses a zig-zag water flow system. Some of the heavy particles can be mechanically removed and processed as organic fertilizer prior to discharge into the treatment system. When the quality of the treated water is good enough, it can be reused.
As highlighted in the meeting with the Marine Research Centre, the outfall for the hatchery will be combined with the brine outfall from RO plant to improve dilution and further mixing of both before being dumped in to the ocean.
2.2.7.11 Generator house
A 24-hour supply of electricity is required for the hatchery complex. A separate set of two generators, alternating on a 12-hour shift, will be dedicated to supply electricity for the pumps and blowers. The power plant established on the island will act as a stand-by generator if the ones at the complex fails.
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2.2.7.12 Seawater pump shed
The pump shed will house 3 pumps. Two pumps will alternate with each other. One pump is on standby. The seawater is filtered through a pressure sand filter prior to supplying the hatchery. Presently, a seawater reservoir is not needed. Any oil spills will enter a sump and will be trapped in the sump.
Figure 2.13: Diagrammatic plan for seawater pump shed
2.2.7.13 Grow-out culture
Grow-out scenarios, together with stocking densities are summarized in the figure below. These scenarios provide more detail on the development from the fingerlings to marketable fish. The fish will be constantly graded according to size to prevent aggressive behaviour of larger fish to smaller fish in the same cage. Furthermore, fish will be shifted from smaller cages to larger cages as they grow. The grow-out plans are examples only, and they assume a production of 25 tons per species per year, to be realized by 4 grow-out units. In reality, production of all species combined will be 35 to 50 tons per year. This implicates that in practice for each species less than three batches of fingerlings per year, or less than 28,000 fingerlings per batch will be forwarded to the grow-out farms. This lesser amount will be compensated by grow-out of more species during one year. The exact species mix will depend on hatchery practicalities, needs for training in grow-out practices, and market forces. Note that the grow-out phase for a single batch of fish may take less or more than one year; the annual production of 35 to 50 tons is attained by putting in more batches and by setting the number of fingerlings per batch at an appropriate level. The grow-out units will be managed by 6 persons for day-to-day activities (feeding, net cleaning, grading of fish, maintenance, etc.). Each unit will produce 3-4 harvests per year. Stocking densities, especially for the faster growing species, are planned to be fairly conservative, to minimize the risk of disease and to minimize usage of fish pharmaceuticals.
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Figure 2.14: Grow-out plan for marbled grouper (Epinephelus fuscoguttatus)
Figure 2.15: Diagrammatic plan for one unit of grow-out cages, top view (surface area: 34x24m)
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2.2.8 Agricultural Activities
2.2.8.1 Nursery
A Nursery will be located at the near the open fields. In this location, the Nursery is well protected from exposure to monsoonal winds in both north east and south west monsoons. The Nursery will propagate seedlings and nurture plants before transplantation to the main fields.
2.2.8.2 Agricultural fields
An area of about 0.3 ha will be developed as agricultural fields. The initial development will include 3 plots (100x100ft) for open agriculture with expansion plans to increase by an additional 3 plots in the future.
Not all of these plots will be developed in its entirety at once and will most probably be phased. In most cases the crops will be rotated as well leaving some plots partially idle for a period to give time for soil to recover.
The soil in the allocated area is in a state which could be directly used for agriculture. For areas that require vegetation removal, the soil has to be dug to 1 ½ ft depth and sieved to remove roots, and pebbles.
It is important to note that the main scope of the development is maricultural activities and as such the scale of agriculture activities will be minimal, at least in the earlier phase of the island development.
2.2.8.3 Forestry Areas
Most of the zones allocated for future expansion and the untouched areas on the southern half of the island will be utilized as forestry areas where forest-based products will be harvested (mainly coconuts and palm leaves). Additionally, roadside plantation will include fruit bearing trees to provide additional products.
It is proposed to plant additional coconut palms in these area for harvesting coconuts and coconut tree products such as toddy and palm fronds. The palm trees will be inter-cropped with species such as mango, breadfruit, guava, custard apple etc.
The sources of the plants are existing healthy palms and other species on the island that needs to be relocated during clearing on the island. This programme is expected to be more long-term compared to other agricultural activities on the island.
Most of the forest-based activities will be done in partnership with the locals of Hulhudhuffaaru. As highlighted during the stakeholder consultations carried out on the island of Hulhudhuffaaru,
Prepared by: CDE Consulting Page|34 EIA for the Proposed Agricultural Development Project in Gaaundoodhoo Island, Raa Atoll a large part of the local population relies on the palm leaves for their thatch making work. The proponent wishes to encourage these activities and is willing to work with the local council in coming to an arrangement where it is beneficial for both parties.
2.2.8.4 Protected Agriculture
The project aims to produce high quality fresh produce. In this regard, crops such as sweet melons, honey-dew melons and specific herbs will be grown. The advantage of growing these vegetables in greenhouses in hydroponic systems is that year-round production is ensured with minimal water usage.
In addition, irrigation systems such as drip irrigation and fertigation systems will be installed in these greenhouses. Fertigation is a combination of adding nutrients to the water to allow fertilization of the crops through the irrigation system. Thus, controlled application of fertilizer and water in container methods will reduce cost and prevent leaching of chemicals into the island’s ground water table.
Initial phase will include 2 main greenhouses (designed to run 2 independent crop cycles in each) and will cover an area of approximately 1 hectare. Target crops for cultivation in these greenhouses are mainly varieties of melons.
2.2.8.5 Livestock Activities
The plan includes an area of about 1 ha allocated for poultry farming and rearing goats each including brooder houses for both livestock activities.
The proponent wishes to highlight the area that will be used, but there are no immediate plans to begin the activities as it is envisioned in a later phase of the island development.
No plans have been finalised on the species types, feed types and health/safety matters. It is recommended that separate approvals be taken from the Ministry of Fisheries and Agriculture for these activities.
2.2.8.6 Fertiliser Use
The concept of “Organic Growing” is integral to the project and will be widely implemented throughout the project. Organic amendments, manure, natural organic extracts, growth promoters, soil regulators etc. will be used in the growing practices. Once the technical staff are in place, the team will conduct studies on if there are any viable options where the nutrient rich waters in the grow-pens could be used as well. However, it is unlikely due rearing fishes in salt- water tanks.
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Biological protection methods will be incorporated to protect plants from pests and diseases.
Essential humus material will be supplied to the soil at regular intervals to maintain improved soil structure formation. Repeated use of these products will help build up the quality of the soil, enriching it with organic extracts and micro nutrients.
Direct benefits are improved moisture retention, enhanced nitrogen and nutrient release, increased exchange capacity to provide macro and micronutrients and increased chelation of trace elements into usable nutrients for plants.
2.2.8.7 Crops
Following is the list of some of the crops that are considered for cultivation.
Vegetables Fruits Herbs Pumpkin Tender coconut2 Rosemary Eggplant Mango2 Thyme Cucumber1 Banana2 Holy basil Red pepper Papaya Coriander Curry leaf Watermelon Lemongrass Drumstick Rock melon1 Asparagus Lettuce Honey melon1 Green Chili Cabbage Tomato1
*1 proposed for cultivation in hydroponic farms *2 proposed for cultivation in forestry area
2.2.1 Support Facilities
Storage warehouses include fertilizer store, product storage, maintenance storage and other temporary storage facilities. Product storage will include an appropriate cold storage unit to ensure proper storage of produce before transfer to resorts.
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2.3 Project Schedule and Life Span
Mobilisation for the project will begin after the EIA is approved. It is anticipated that the completion of the first phase of the project will take approximately 2-5 years.
The tentative work plan is provided below.
Table 2.1: Proposed tentative work plan
YEAR 1 YEAR 2 PLANNED ACTIVITY 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
EIA
FERRY BOAT
CLEANING AND ROAD
JETTY
STAFF QUARTERS AND OTHER INFRASTRUCTURE
POWER HOUSE WITH GENERATOR
WATER PLANT AND HOUSE
CONSTRUCTION OF PONDS
POND EQUIPMENT PROCUMETS
COMMUNICATION EQUIPMENT
INCIRINATOR AND WASTE MANAGEMENT
PROTECTION OF BEACH AND SEAWALL
YEAR 3 YEAR 4
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
HACHERY WITH EQUIPMENTS
LABOURATORY WITH EQUIPMENTS
CARGO BOAT
VEHICLES
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START OF FARMING
START MARKETING FARMING MARKETING AND SELLING YEAR 5 YEAR 6 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
FARMING
MARKETING AND SELLING
DEVELOPMENT OF OPEN WATER CAGE BASED FARM
START CONSTRUCTION CANERY YEAR 7 - PROPOSE INVESTMENT YEAR 8 - PROPOSE INVESTMENT
YEAR 9 YEAR 10 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 CARGO VESSELES VEHICLES UPGRADE HATCHERY AND PONDS EXTENTION OF JETTY AND HARBOUR YEAR 11 YEAR 12 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 EXTENTION OF POWER HOUSE UPGRADE SEWERAGE SYSTEM ADDITONAL WATER PLANTS ACCOMADATION BLOCKS BUILD NEW CANERY DEVELOP NEW LAB YEAR 13 YEAR 14 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 UPGARDE INFRASTRUCTURE NEW PONDS AND HATCHERY FERRY YEAR 15 - PROPOSE INVESTMENT
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YEAR 16 - PROPOSE INVESTMENT YEAR 17 - PROPOSE INVESTMENT
YEAR 18 YEAR 21 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 VESSELES NEW PONDS YEAR 19 - PROPOSE INVESTMENT YEAR 20 - PROPOSE INVESTMENT
UPGRADE LAB VEHICLES UPGRADE INFRASTRUCTURE
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2.4 Labour Requirements and Availability
Approximately 50 staff of the contractor will be involved in the construction activities of the project. Not all these workers will be present at the same time on the island. During operations stage at least 20-30 staff will be recruited.
2.5 Waste Management, Logistics and Safety Measures
2.5.1 Site Office and Temporary Accommodation
Temporary facilities will be established on Gaaundoodhoo Island during the initial stages. The existing clearing observed on the eastern side of the island will be utilized before more permanent structures can be established. This includes a temporary site office as well as staff facilities for the contractor.
2.5.2 Construction Waste Management and Disposal
Construction wastes that will be created are mainly construction debris.
Small amounts of waste oil may be generated from the operation and maintenance of vehicles. All waste oil will be disposed as per the approved standards of the Environment Ministry.
Large amounts of green waste are expected due to vegetation clearing. All large trees will be relocated where practical. All small bushes will be mulched using a wood chipper and reused as fertilizer or to prevent weed growth.
2.5.3 Pollution and Emission Control Measures
The following measures will be taken to ensure minimal pollution during construction stage.
• Machinery will be properly tuned and maintained to reduce emissions and minimize risk of spills/leaks. • All paints, lubricants, and other chemicals used on site will be stored in secure and bunded location to minimize risk of spill. • Coastal works will be undertaken during calm conditions.
2.5.4 Sediment Containment and Turbidity Control Measures
The proponent is committed to prevent any sedimentation of the reef system from this proposed project. The following specific measures will be undertaken during the project.
• Undertake marine construction work (mainly access jetty and laying of outfall pipe) during calm weather conditions.
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2.5.5 Health and Safety Measures
• The contractor would ensure that Health and Safety procedures are complied with at all times. • Construction activities would be carried out under the supervision of a suitably experienced person. • All reasonable precautions will be taken for the safety of employees, and equipment will be operated by competent persons. • Health checks will be administered before work commences • Warning signs, barricades or warning devices will be provided and used. Necessary safety gear will be worn at all times. • Fire extinguishing equipment would be readily available and employees will be trained in its use. In general, water-based fire extinguishers would be used. • Oxygen, acetylene or LPG bottles will not be left free-standing. All welding and cutting will be done in accordance to high safety regulations by experienced personnel. • First aid kits will be made available on site • The construction site will be properly closed to unauthorised personnel
2.5.6 Emergency Spill Response Plan
An emergency response plan for chemical and oil spills would be in place before construction commenced. It would include preventive and preparatory measures, including:
• Placement of storage areas away from sensitive environment • Storage in secure, bunded locations • Training of employees on good environmental practice and response protocols • Installing warning signs and barricades where needed • Installing response kits at accessible locations. The kit would include absorbents, personal protective equipment and clean-up tools. • Acquiring material safety data sheets for all hazardous chemicals
Additionally, the response plan would include:
• Risk assessment, including identification of hazards, potential triggers, contaminant pathways, and impact thresholds for different chemicals • Response procedure, defining roles and responsibilities of key personnel • Communication protocols- among responsible personnel, and to authorities and neighbours, if required • Long-term environmental monitoring, if required.
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2.5.7 Utilities
• Electricity will be generated using a temporary generator set • Septic tanks will be constructed for construction workers • Water will be produced from a portable desalination plant.
2.5.8 Fire Prevention
Fire extinguishing equipment would be readily available and employees will be trained in its use. In general, water-based fire extinguishers would be used.
Oxygen, acetylene or LPG bottles will not be left free-standing. All welding and cutting will be done in accordance to high safety regulations by experienced personnel.
2.6 Summary of Project Inputs and Outputs
The main inputs and outputs for the construction stage of the project are provided in Table 2.2 and Table 2.3 respectively and the main inputs and outputs during the operational stage of the project are provided in Table 2.4 and Table 2.5 respectively.
Table 2.2: Main inputs during construction stage
Input resource Source/Type How to obtain resources
Construction workers Local and foreign Contractor’s employees Engineers and Site Local and foreign Contractor’s employees supervisors Construction material Electrical cables and wires, PVC pipes, light Import and purchase where weight concrete blocks, wood, reinforcement locally available at competitive steel bars, sand, cement, aggregates, boulders prices – Main Contractor’s etc. responsibility. Water supply Portable desalination plant Contractor’s equipment Electricity/Energy (during 50 kVA generator, Diesel Import and purchase locally construction) Machinery Excavators, loader, trucks, concrete mixers, Import or hire locally where farming machinery, electric saws available Food and Beverage Mainly imported sources except a few locally Import and purchase locally available products. Firefighting equipment Fire Pumps, Fire Protection System, Smoke Local suppliers Detectors, Carbon Dioxide and Foam Fire Extinguishers, etc. Fuel, Kerosene and LPG Light Diesel, LPG Gas, Petrol, Lubricants Local suppliers
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Table 2.3: Main outputs during construction stage
Products and waste Anticipated quantities Method of disposal materials Green waste from site Large quantity Mulched or composted for use as fertilisers and clearance in nursery if applicable Trees and shrubs Large quantity Replanted as windbreakers or mulched. Construction waste Small quantities Combustibles: Burnt/incinerated on island. (general) Others: Sent to designated landfill after construction is completed. Waste oil Small quantities Barrelled and sent to Thilafushi landfill for disposal Hazardous waste (diesel) Small quantities Barrelled and sent to designated landfill as part of overall hazardous waste management programme of the island
Table 2.4: Major inputs during operational stage
Input resource(s) Source/Type How to obtain resources Farm/hatchery workers Local and foreign, mainly local Recruiting agencies, etc. Operational supervisors & Mainly Maldivians Advertise in local papers, social Manager networks, etc. Technical staff Local if available or foreign consultants Recruiting agencies, etc. Maintenance material Electrical cables and wires, PVC pipes, light Import or purchase locally weight concrete blocks, sand, cement, where available aggregates, machinery spare parts, wood etc.. Water supply Rainwater, desalinated water – for From rainwater tanks and consumption desalination plants. Seawater – for hatchery and grow out pens From sea water intake Electricity/Energy (during One 200kVA generator; One backup 50 Import and purchase locally construction) kVA generator; Diesel Irrigation Pipes, drip systems, water pumps, water Import and purchase locally meters Machinery Farming machinery and trucks, Import or hire locally where available Transport equipment 1 Vessel (dhoni), Smaller Vessel (dinghy) Import and purchase locally Refrigeration and air Air conditioners. Local suppliers conditioning Food and Beverage Mainly imported sources except a few Import and purchase locally locally available products. Firefighting equipment Fire Pumps, Fire Protection System, Smoke Local suppliers Detectors, Carbon Dioxide and Foam Fire Extinguishers, etc. Fuel, Kerosene and LPG Light Diesel, LPG Gas, Petrol, Lubricants Local suppliers Insecticides, pesticides & Imported pesticides and fertilizers Import and purchase locally Fertilisers Brood stock Mature females and male groupers (mainly Harvested locally or purchase local) from fisherman Fish Feed Food pellets & hormones Mainly Imported
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Table 2.5: Major outputs during operational stage
Products and waste Anticipated quantities Method of disposal materials Non-potable water Small quantities Desalinated water, Ground (Irrigation, gardening, water, recharging the aquifer landscaping) and rainwater Hatchery waste water Moderate quantities Using outfall Grow-out pens water Moderate quantities Using outfall Green waste Moderate quantities Burnt on site Sewage and wastewater About 10 litres/person/day Use septic tanks and outfall Grey water/laundry wastewater General/domestic waste >30x20L rubbish bags per month Combustibles: incinerated Others: Sent to designated landfill Food and kitchen waste >6 kg per day Bio-degradable: composted, Non-biodegradable: incinerated Waste oil and grease Small quantities Incinerated Scrap metal/cans/plastics Small quantities Sent to designated area Paper and cardboard Small quantities Sent to designated area Glass and glass bottles Small quantities Sent to designated area Hazardous waste Small quantities Barrelled and sent to designated landfill Garden wastes Large quantities Composted on site and used as fertilizer
2.7 Demobilization
The proponent advocates a phased demobilization plan to commence in the last two months of the 3rd year. The actual demobilisation plan depends on contractor preferences.
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3 POLICY AND LEGAL FRAMEWORK
These legal and policy provisions have to be fully respected in carrying out the proposed development. All contractors and sub-contractors will be informed of these requirements. This project conforms to all relevant laws and regulations of the Maldives.
3.1 Relevant Legislation
3.1.1 Environment Protection and Preservation Act (Act no. 4/93)
The Environmental Protection and Preservation Act (4/93) enacted on 19 March 1993 is the framework law related to environment protection in the Maldives. The authority responsible for the Environment Act is the Ministry of Environment and Energy.
Articles 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8 of the law are relevant to Gaaundoodhoo Fisheries and Agricultural Project.
Article 2 states that the concerned government authorities shall provide the necessary guidelines and advise on environmental protection in accordance with the prevailing conditions and needs of the country. All concerned parties shall take due considerations of the guidelines provided by the government authorities.
The project developers and contractors shall abide by any guidelines or advice given by the concerned Government authorities for the project.
Article 4 states that the Ministry of Environment shall be responsible for identifying protected areas and natural reserves and for drawing up the necessary rules and regulations for their protections and preservation.
The project developers and contractors shall ensure that there is no negative impact from the proposed project on sensitive environments in the vicinity or protected species.
According to Article 5 (a) of the Act, an Environmental Impact Assessment study shall be submitted to the Ministry of Environment before implementing any development project that may have a potential impact on the environment.
According to Article 5 (b), The Ministry of Environment shall formulate the guidelines for EIA and shall determine the projects that need such assessment as mentioned in paragraph (a) of this clause.
This report is prepared to fulfil this clause.
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According to Article 6, the Ministry of Environment has the authority to terminate any project that has any undesirable impact on the environment. A project so terminated shall not receive any compensation.
All project developer and contractors shall be aware of this provision and contractors shall take all practical measures to ensure there is no irreversible and significant negative impact of the projects on the environment
Article 7 of the EPPA (4/93) states that any type of waste, oil, poisonous gases or any substances that may have harmful effects on the environment shall not be disposed within the territory of the Maldives. In cases where the disposal of the substances becomes absolutely necessary, they shall be disposed only within the areas designated for the purpose by the government. If such waste is to be incinerated, appropriate precaution should be taken to avoid any harm to the health of the population.
All project contractors shall comply with the Environmental Management Plan presented in this report, which specifies how the wastes, oil and gases generated by the project will be disposed.
Article 8 of the EPPA (4/93) states that Hazardous/ Toxic or Nuclear Wastes that is harmful to human health and the environment shall not be disposed anywhere within the territory of the country.
Any hazardous wastes that may be generated from this project shall be transferred to the designated waste site in Thilafushi or Vaandhoo, for disposal according to Government regulations and standards. It should not be disposed on the Island, as it does not have the necessary facility.
3.1.2 Uninhabited Islands Act
The Uninhabited Islands Act 1998 provides for allocation and releasing of islands for different needs as well as releasing of public land for housing. The Act also states the conditions that govern the using of, owning, selling, renting and transferring of ownership of such islands. This includes islands such as Gaaundoodhoo, which has been leased to the proponent.
The proponent has a lease agreement for Gaaundoodhoo Island, that will be signed upon approval of this EIA.
3.1.3 Hazardous Substances Act
Under the Hazardous Substances Act, prior written consent is required from the Ministry of Defence and National Security for import of chemicals to the country.
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The following information has to be submitted to the Ministry for approval of the chemical to be imported to the country:
• Name of the chemical (in English), • Common name and principal trade name of the chemical, • Use (as insecticide/fungicide/rodenticide), • Country where it is being imported from, • Amount that needs to be imported, • Reason for the import, and • If the chemical is retailed, name of the retailer.
The Proponent shall obtain prior written consent of the Ministry for the import of chemicals. In addition, import of Class A chemicals into the country is banned and is listed in Table 3.1.
Table 3.1: Import-Banned Class - A Chemicals
Common Name Trade Name Insecticides/Acaricides Aldrin Aldrex, Aldrite Chlrodane Chlorotox, Octachlor, Pentichlor Endvin Hexadrin Dieldrin Dieldrex, Dieldrite, Octalox DDT (dichloro diphenyl trichloroethane) Neocide, Pentachlorin, Chlorophenothate Heptachlore Dromex, Heptamol, Heptox Mirex HCH (<99% gamma isomer) Hexachlorohexane Hexachlorobenzene Camphechlor Toxaphene, Polychloro camphene Nitrofew 1,2 Dibromoethane 1,2 Dichlorothane Monocrotophos Bromocholoromethane (CH2BrCl) Methylbromide (CH2Br) Fungicides Mercury Compound (Hg) Selenium Compound (Si) Rodenticides Talium Compounds Herbicides 2,4,5T Brochfox, Decamine Veon
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3.1.4 Employment Act (2/2008)
The Employment Act is the legal framework to govern the rights and responsibilities of the migrant workers in the Maldives is included in the Employment Act (2/2008) that was ratified and signed into law in May 2008. The Employment Act provides for the creation of a Labour Relations Authority, an Employment Tribunal and an Advisory Board on wages.
Under the fundamental principles of the Employment Act, Articles 3 and 4 prohibits workers from being compelled or forced into employment. Employers are also prohibited to discriminate amongst persons carrying out equal work either in the granting of employment, determination of remuneration, increase in remuneration, provision of training, determination of conditions and manner of employment, dismissal from employment or resolution of other employment related matters, based on race, colour, social standing, religion, political belief or political affiliation, sex, marital status, family obligation, age, disability. Positive discrimination and selection or recruitment of Maldivians are exemptions to the general rule on non-discrimination. Minors under the age of sixteen years shall not be employed except in connection with training associated with their education.
The Act requires all employers to have a written employment agreement (consisting of one or several documents) between the employer and the employee including name of the employee, permanent address, current address, identity card number or passport number, date of birth, nationality, emergency contact person's name, address and phone number; whether employment is permanent or temporary; date of commencement of employment agreement; salary and other benefits; method and guidelines for calculation of salary; pay day; days on which leave may be granted; principles pursuant to which disciplinary measures may be taken against the employee due to his conduct; staff appraisal; and manner of dismissal from employment.
This Act limits working hours to 48 hours per week, and 6 consecutive days a week. However, persons employed at uninhabited islands designated for industrial projects can work an additional two hours a day and leave entitlement of one day after working for six consecutive days a week shall be accumulated and taken by way of one day for every six consecutive days worked. Exemptions from these provisions are people working in emergency situations; crew of sea going vessels or aircraft; imams and other employees at mosques; persons on on-call duty during the hours of duty; and persons in senior management posts. Furthermore, employers shall not require employees to work consecutively for more than 5 hours without allowing at least a 30-minute break for meal times; or require an employee to work during meal times. Overtime work is only allowed if agreed upon in the Employment Agreement. Overtime work should be paid 1 ¼ times the hourly working wage.
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An employee is entitled to 30 days of paid annual leave upon completion of one year of employment. Employees are also entitled to 30 days of paid sick leave to the employee during every year of employment. However, a medical certificate should be submitted for sick leave of 2 consecutive days. Female employees are entitled to 60 days maternity leave based on a medical certificate specifying the estimated date of giving birth issued by a licensed medical practitioner, not commencing 30 days prior to the estimated date of giving birth.
All employees, except for temporary employees, should be paid at least on a monthly basis. Unless otherwise stated, wage payments to an employee shall be made to the employee in person or to a person nominated by the employee; by legal tender or by a cheque issued by a bank in the Maldives; and if in cash, then payment shall be made on a working day, from the place of employment or a place nearby.
The Employer must provide and maintain, at no cost to the employee, a safe environment for work, including implementation of a safe workplace and procedures, procurement of secure tools and machinery for carrying out work, and ensuring the continued safety; providing safe materials to work with; providing protective equipment and safety equipment in the event that the nature of work is such that it is not possible to eliminate or control health hazards arising out of the work; providing education and training to employees on the use of protective gear and safety equipment, and disseminating to employees information on all issues of related concern; conducting regular health checks for employees engaged in work involving chemical or biological materials that may cause a hazard to physical health or employees involved in any work that may cause physical ill health; providing or arrange for appropriate medical care for employees injured while carrying out employment; and arranging the facilitation of first aid to employees in emergencies or accidents.
To date, five amendments have been brought to the Employment Act (2/2008). The amendments were made through the following Acts: 14/2008; 12/2010; 3/2014; 14/2015; 22/2016. Of these amendments, the third, fourth and fifth Amendments are directly relevant to foreign migrant workers in the Maldives.
The Amendment 3/2014 passed by Parliament on 03 December 2013 requires an Employment approval for foreign migrant worker to be issued prior to arrival in the Maldives. The Amendment also made a deposit mandatory for all foreign migrant workers to be paid by the Employer. A deposit (to the sum of return airfare) to be made to Department of Immigration and Emigration (DoIE) at the time of work visa.
The Amendment 14/2015 on Ramazan allowance for Muslim workers makes it optional for Employers of Muslim foreign migrant workers to pay them a Ramazan allowance.
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The Amendment 22/2016 is on wages for foreign migrant workers. The Amendment specifies that the wages and other sums to which the worker is entitled shall be paid through a bank registered in the Maldives to an account in the name of the foreign migrant worker (art. 53 a). A bank account for every foreign migrant worker Maldives to be opened in the Maldives and wages paid directly through the bank account.
This Amendment also specifies that starting from 1 October 2016, all foreign migrant workers will be charged a 3% Remittance Tax from money transferred out of the Maldives through a bank or money transfer agency, and cash withdrawals from a bank account opened in the Maldives, outside the Maldives. It is the responsibility of Banks or other financial institutions in Maldives (that provides a service to transfer money abroad) to collect the payment from workers and pay this tax to the government.
All contractors shall be required to undertake ethical recruitment and responsible employment of workers during the construction and operation stage of the project. Contractor and proponent must ensure equal opportunity, no discrimination, a written employment agreement, and safe environment for work for all workers.
The proponent understands that the conduct of construction activities outside normal construction industry hours will be required to conform to the Employment Act (2/2008) and ILO Convention 1 concerning hours of work.
3.1.5 Immigration Act (1/2007)
The Maldives Immigration Act (1/2007) lays down the rules for entry, departure and deportation of foreign nationals. Article 15 of the Act provides for work visa: the permit to remain in the Maldives for the duration of a work permit granted to a foreign national visiting the Maldives for the purpose of working, where a work permit has been obtained by that foreign national consistent with the regulations of the concerned Government authority.
It is anticipated that a number of foreign migrant workers will be employed both during construction and operation stage of the project. Special emphasis will need to be given to ensure that all workers have the relevant work visas and proper documentation while working in the Maldives.
3.1.6 Anti-Human Trafficking Act (12/2013)
The Anti-Human Trafficking Act passed by the parliament on 03 December 2013 and ratified on 08 December 2013 makes trafficking in persons a criminal offence in the Maldives. The purposes of the Act are to: prevent trafficking of persons through and across the Maldives; establish the crimes of trafficking in persons and prescribe punishments; provide for prosecution
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The Act defines the crimes of trafficking, exploitation, and debt bondage. According to this Act, forced labour and fraudulent recruitment are considered human trafficking. The Act specifies the penalties for perpetrators of trafficking. The penalty for trafficking offence is a jail imprisonment up to 10 years that can be extended to 15 years if children are involved.
A number of foreign migrant workers are anticipated during the construction stage of the project. It is important to ensure that all contractors abide by stringent measures to ensure there is no exploitation of foreign migrant workers. Special attention shall be given to ensure wages are paid in full and on time; the travel documents of workers are not held by contractors against the will of the workers, foreign migrant workers are not required to pay recruitment fees, there is no forced labour and all workers are treated with dignity and respect.
3.1.7 Public Health Protection Act (07/12)
The purpose of the public health protection act is to establish policies for protection of public health, identify persons responsible for protection of public health, define how public health protection policies will be implemented. The objectives of the Act also include: establishing policies to respond to public health emergencies; classify situations which may be harmful to health and establish methods to act in such a situation; establish roles and responsibilities of island, atoll, and city councils in protection of public health. Chapter 5 of the Public Health Protection Act covers identifying health hazards, eliminating risk, reporting health hazards, and orders on things to be done or not done in relation to a building.
3.1.8 Substances Prohibited to be Brought into the Maldives Act (04/75)
The objective of Act (4/75) is to deal with substances that are prohibited to be imported unless for government purposes, or only to be imported with special permission, or materials which are completely prohibited from being imported into the country. Chemical substances are under import, use and manufacture control unless accompanied with a special permission from the Ministry of Defence and National Security. These include hazardous chemicals and chemical based toxins that do not fall under the category of explosives, but may be used as substances for chemical weapons.
3.1.9 Pesticides Bill
Pesticides Bill has been drafted and sent to the Attorney General’s Office by MOFA. The objective of the Bill is to manage pesticide use in the country at every stage of its chemical life
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3.2 Relevant Regulations and Guidelines
3.2.1 Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations 2012
Environmental Impact Assessment regulations were issued by Environment Environmental Impact Assessment regulations were issued by Environment Ministry on 8 May 2012. The first step in environmental assessment process involves screening of the project to be classified as one that requires an EIA or not. Based on this decision, the Ministry then decides the scope of the EIA, which is discussed with the proponent and the EIA consultants in a “scoping meeting”. The consultants then undertake the EIA starting with baseline studies, impact prediction and finally reporting the findings with impact mitigation and monitoring programme. This report follows the principles and procedures for EIA outlined in the EIA regulations.
The EIA report is reviewed by MEE following which an EIA Decision Note is given to the proponent who will have to implement the Decision Note accordingly. As a condition of approval, appropriate environmental monitoring may be required and the proponent shall have to report monitoring data at required intervals to the Ministry. The project proponent is committed to implement all impact mitigation measures that are specified in this EIA report. Furthermore, the proponent is committed to environmental monitoring and shall fulfil environmental monitoring requirements that may be specified in the EIA decision note as a condition for project approval.
This report complies with the EIA regulations
3.2.2 Regulation on Sand and Coral Mining
Regulation on sand mining covers sand mining from uninhabited islands that have been leased; sand mining from the coastal zone of other uninhabited islands; and aggregate mining from uninhabited islands that have been leased and from the coastal zone of other uninhabited islands.
Coral mining from house reef and atoll rim has been banned through a directive from President’s Office dated 26 September 1990.
Sand should not be mined from any part of an existing island and there is no plans to carry out any dredging on this island’s reef. Sand should also not be mined from within 100 ft. of the shoreline of Gaaundoodhoo Island. Please see regulation on dredging and reclamation for further controls.
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3.2.3 Regulation on Cutting Down, Uprooting, Digging Out and Export of Trees and Palms from One Island to Another
Pursuant to the Environment Protection and Preservation Act of Maldives 1993, the Environment Ministry made a bylaw with the purpose of educating developers about the importance of trees including best management practices for maintaining trees and provide standards for preservation of trees in the Maldives and set down rules and regulations to be adhered to prior to commencing felling, uprooting, digging out and exporting of trees and palms from one island to another in Maldives.
The by law states that the cutting down, uprooting, digging out and export of trees and palms from one island to another can only be done if it is absolutely necessary and there is no other alternative. Its further stated that for every tree or palm removed in the Maldives two more should be planted and grown in the island.
The by law prohibits the removal of the following tree types;
• The coastal vegetation growing around the island extending to about 15 meters into the island • All the trees and palms growing in mangrove and wetlands spreading to 15 meters of land area; • All the trees that are in a Government protected areas; • Trees that are being protected by the Government in order to protect species of • animal/organisms that live in such trees; and • Trees/palms that is abnormal in structure.
This project will not require removal of any prohibited vegetation apart from some of the coastal vegetation cleared to make access paths to the beach. A separate EIA will be carried out if any of the palm trees / vegetation on this island is to be relocated to another location.
3.2.4 Regulation on Dredging and Land Reclamation
The regulation of Dredging and Land Reclamation was published on 2 April 2013 with the aim of minimising environmental impacts associated with dredging activities in islands and reefs across Maldives.
• The regulation defines the rationales acceptable for dredging as those related to approved development activities on inhabited islands and economic islands. It defines that those activities should be if utmost necessity for dredging to be considered.
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• All dredging and reclamation activities must be approved by EPA in writing. The process includes the submission of project information to EPA along with a scaled before and after map. • The regulation defines rationales for reclamation as those absolutely necessary for social, economic or safety purposes. • Beach replenishment is restricted from 10 m of the shoreline • Dredging is restricted in the following areas:
o 500 m from the ocean side reef edge. o 50 m from any island vegetation line. o An environmentally sensitive site. • Land reclamation is restricted within 200 m of a sensitive area. • Land reclamation cannot exceed 30% of the house reef area.
The project does not have any dredging requirements.
3.2.5 Dewatering Regulation (Regulation No. 2013/R-1697)
This regulation is drafted under the Act number 4/93 (Maldives Environment Protection and Preservation Act) and issued on 31st December 2013. The main purpose of the regulation is to minimize the impact of dewatering activities on ground water table and also to decrease the impacts on the receiving environment of the disposed water. The regulation encourages prevention of contamination and damage to ground water table, protect the living organisms as well as the environment from the negative impacts due to dewatering activities. This regulation is to be enforced by EPA of the Maldives. If dewatering is to be carried out for any development purposes in any of the islands in Maldives, it shall be done by gaining a written approval from the enforcing agency or an agency assigned by the enforcing body. However, dewatering done at individual level i.e., from a bore well or for the purpose of installing a bore well and water drawn for agricultural purposes are considered exceptions from the regulation. Dewatering can only be to be carried out, after gaining approval by submitting “the dewatering approval form” in the annex 1 to the enforcing body for approval with all the required documents expressed and with an administrative fee of Rf500. Water quality tests results also have to be submitted as one of the required components. The regulation also guides on where and how the extracted water shall be disposed of, and how it has to be handled. According to the regulation, permission can be granted for dewatering at a stretch for a maximum of 28 days, for which a sum of Rf500 should be paid per day. This amount is liable to be increased with the number of days increased.
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A fine not exceeding Rf100 million may be charged for violation. This project is unlikely to require pumping during excavation works. In the event that pumping is required, the proponent will be required to get an approval from EPA before commencing excavation.
3.2.6 Waste Management Regulation 2013
Waste Management Regulation (WMR) was published on August 2013 and came into effect in February 2014. It will be implemented by EPA. The aim of WMR is to implement the national waste policy, which contains specific provisions to:
• Implement measures to minimize impacts on human health • Formulate and implement waste management standards • Implement an integrated framework for sustainable waste management • Encourage waste minimisation, reuse and recycling • Implement Polluter-Pays Principle • Introduce Extended Producer Responsibility WMR contains four main sections:
• Waste management standards: Defines standards for waste collection, transfer, treatment, storage, waste site management, landfills and managing hazardous waste. • Waste management Permits: Defines approval procedures for waste sites • Waster transfer: Standards and permits required for waste transport on land and sea, including trans-boundary movements. • Reporting requirements: Defines reporting and monitoring requirements and procedures. • Enforcement: Defines procedures to implement WRM and penalties for non-compliance. The proponent shall register the waste site and any vessels used for transporting waste to Vaandhoo. The proponent should also ensure compliance from the subcontractors in handling and transport of waste from the island to the designated waste site.
3.2.7 The Environmental Liability Regulation (Regulation 2011/R-9)
This law is pursuant to Article 22 of national constitution that states that protection, preservation and maintenance of the Maldivian natural environment, the richness of the living species, the natural resources and the beauty of the Maldives for the present generations as well as for the future generations is a basic obligation of the Maldivian government. The government shall enforce that the activities conducted in order to gain economic and social development should be of sustainable nature that protect the environment and such activities shall not deteriorate the environment, endanger any species, damage the environment, and shall not waste any natural resources.
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This regulation is also pursuant to Environment Protection and Preservation Act of Maldives (4/93). The regulation is aimed at maintaining equal standards for reprimanding and enforcing environmental liabilities, fines for those who violate the rules and regulations and give guidance to those who are involved in the implementation process of the regulations pursuant to Preservation Act of Maldives (4/93).
One of the key objectives of the environmental liability regulation is also to practice polluter- pay-principles in the Maldives.
All project developer and contractors shall be aware of this provision and contractors shall take all practical measures to ensure that all relevant laws and regulations, and the EMP proposed in this EIA is followed.
3.2.8 Regulation on Employment of Foreign Workers in the Maldives
The Employment of foreign migrant workers is regulated by the Regulation on employment of foreign workers in the Maldives (2011/R-22) that was published on official gazette on 26 May 2011. This regulation is issued under Article 63 of Employment Act (2/2008) and Articles 32, 33 and 35 of the Maldives Immigration Act (1/2007).
The Regulation on employment of foreign workers in the Maldives (2011/R-22) requires employers to apply for a foreign worker quota; pay a security deposit for the foreign migrant worker; ensure that work permits are issued before a foreign migrant worker can commence work; apply for a work permit card within 15 days of arrival of the foreign migrant worker to the Maldives; apply for a work visa within 30 days of arrival of the foreign migrant worker to the Maldives; pay a work visa fee of MVR 250 per month; receive the foreign migrant worker at port of entry to the Maldives; register the foreign migrant worker at the registry maintained by the applicable island council or city council.
Responsibilities of Employers recruiting foreign migrant workers include paying all fees required for work permits and work visas; sending foreign worker back home when work permit is expired; sending foreign worker back home if needed for any reason by the Maldivian government (finances should be covered by Employer); organizing funeral services if worker dies; organizing to send body to family if workers’ family requests (finances should be covered by family); carrying out all communications and acts towards workers in accordance with the Employment Act (2/2008) and any other law or regulation that applied to foreign migrant workers.
A number of foreign migrant workers are anticipated during the construction stage of the project. Project proponent must ensure that all foreign migrant workers are employed for the Project under a legal quota, that Contractors and Sub-Contractors get work permits for foreign
Prepared by: CDE Consulting Page|56 EIA for the Proposed Agricultural Development Project in Gaaundoodhoo Island, Raa Atoll migrant workers prior to their arrival in Maldives, pay a security deposit for foreign migrant workers (one-way airfare to their home country, work visa fees), and issue a ‘Letter of Appointment’ to foreign migrant workers prior to their arrival in the Maldives. LoA will act as the temporary contract for the employee and should not contradict Article 4 of Employment Act.
3.2.9 Vector Control Regulation
The draft regulation prepared by Health Protection Agency of the Maldives prescribe policies and standard practices to control mosquitoes, rats and vectors as stipulated under Section 42, 44 and Chapter 8 of Law no: 7/2012 (Public Health Protection Act). It is intended to protect the public from a public health hazard or diseases which spread through vectors, mainly mosquitoes and rats.
Areas where major construction are taking place and construction pits dug to lay foundation, sheet, lift shaft, well, rain gutter and other places and objects where water can accumulate, water containers for pets and livestock, standing or accumulated water in places and objects in inhabited places and uninhabited private properties are considered to be breeding site of mosquitoes. Water accumulated in such places shall be monitored and eliminated by the contractors while undergoing construction. In other circumstances the owner of the building shall be responsible.
For the purpose of mosquito control import chemicals acceptable to Health Protection Agency. Importing and distribution of chemicals other than those acceptable to Health Protection Agency is prohibited under this Regulation.
Elimination and monitoring of potential breeding sites for mosquito:
• Remove and clean the water in construction pits every five day if there is a delay in commencement of construction work. Or add into the pit a mosquito-control pesticide approved by Health Protection Agency. Until the lift is installed keep the lift well covered, or dried up with sand to prevent access to mosquito. • Keep the wells in construction sites covered. If the well cannot be covered, add to the well a fish that eats mosquito larvae, or use mosquito-control pesticide.
Farmland is identified as a potential nesting location for rats and moles. Owner of an uninhabited private property is responsible for monitoring and elimination of rat nests in accordance with the policy made under this Regulation.
All project developer and contractors shall be aware of this provision and contractors shall take all practical measures to ensure that all necessary actions are taken to prevent breeding of mosquitoes, rats and eliminating them.
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3.3 Environmental Permits Required for the Project
3.3.1 Approval of the concept and site plan
The Ministry of Fisheries and Agriculture (MoFA) will have to approve the overall concept plan and site plan for the proposed project before the EIA could be approved.
This project has conditional approval from MoFA (See Appendix C).
3.3.2 Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Decision Note
The most important environmental permit to initiate project work would be a decision regarding this EIA. The EIA Decision Note, as it is referred to, shall govern the manner in which the project activities must be undertaken. This EIA report assists decision makers in understanding the existing environment and potential impacts of the project. Therefore, the Decision Note may only be given to the Proponent after a review of this document following which the Ministry may request for further information or provide a decision if further information is not required. In some cases, where there are no major environmental impacts associated with the project, the Ministry may provide the Decision Note while at the same time requesting for further information.
3.3.3 Registration of Desalination Plants
According to Desalination Regulation of the Maldives, all desalination plants operating in the Maldives catering for public water supplies and commercial purposes would have to be registered with Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) former Maldives Water and Sanitation Authority (MWSA). Therefore, the desalination plants to be installed in the new island would have to be registered with EPA. For this, the Proponent will be required to submit the EIA Decision Note for this EIA report, completed application forms with all details of the plant to be registered. A copy of the relevant section of this EIA may be appended to the forms as justification for the desalination plants.
3.3.4 Domestic Wastewater Disposal Consent
The General Guidelines for Domestic Wastewater Disposal issued by the EPA former MWSA in 2006 requires wastewater disposal to be undertaken with written consent of the Agency. A copy of the guidelines can be obtained from the EPA.
3.3.5 Dewatering Permit
If dewatering is required, a dewatering permit is needed for the project during excavation works. A separate application will have to be made to the EPA to get the permit. Permission can be
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3.3.6 Aquaculture License
Prior to commencing the operations of the hatchery complex along with the grow-out pens for grouper farming, the proponent is required to obtain an aquaculture license from the Ministry of Fisheries and Agriculture. A detailed proposal, along with the approved EIA decision note is required to be submitted to obtain this license.
The proponent will apply for the aquaculture license upon obtaining the approved EIA decision note.
3.4 Responsible Institutions
The main government institutions that have roles and responsibilities relevant to this project are summarised below.
3.4.1 Ministry of Fisheries and Agriculture
MoFA is the agency responsible for issuing permits and leasing the island in question. The project is exclusively planned for fisheries and agricultural activities. The land approvals for the project is presented in Appendix C. MoFA is also responsible for the management of pesticide use in the country at every stage of its chemical life cycle. MOFA will regulate the management of importation, manufacture, distribution, sale, use and disposal of pesticides with the aim of protecting human, animal and plant health, marine and terrestrial environment.
The fisheries management unit along with the marine research centre is responsible for providing the permits to operate a mariculture farm as well as any inspections related to it.
3.4.2 Ministry of Environment and Energy
The Ministry of Environment is mandated for the effective implementation of the Environmental Protection Act of the country and has the statutory power over issues related to the environment. It has the central control over the environment protection, management, conservation and environmental emergencies. The Ministry operates mainly at a policy level and the more regulatory and technical assessment activities are mandated to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). In this respect EPA has now been mandated to manage all issues relating to Environmental Impact Assessment of individual projects.
The Ministry of Environment also seeks the advice of National Commission for the Protection of Environment (NCPE) on all significant environmental matters. The commission is appointed by
Prepared by: CDE Consulting Page|59 EIA for the Proposed Agricultural Development Project in Gaaundoodhoo Island, Raa Atoll the president and is mandated to advice the Minister of Environment on environmental matters such as environment assessment, planning and management, and political decisions with regard to the protection of environment.
3.4.3 Labour Relations Authority & Employment Tribunal
The legal framework to govern the rights and responsibilities of workers in the Maldives is included in the Employment Act (2/2008) that was ratified and signed into law in May 2008. The Employment Act provides for the creation of a Labour Relations Authority, an Employment Tribunal and an Advisory Board on wages.
LRA is a regulatory stakeholder for the Project and is mandated to oversee the compliance of Employment Act. LRA can investigate disputes and claims regarding employment and labour.
3.4.4 Department of Immigration
Department of Immigration is an important stakeholder for the Project in relation to foreign migrant workers. The Maldives Immigration Act (1/2007) lays down the rules for entry, departure and deportation of foreign nationals. Article 15 of the Act provides for work visa: the permit to remain in the Maldives for the duration of a work permit granted to a foreign national visiting the Maldives for the purpose of working, where a work permit has been obtained by that foreign national consistent with the regulations of the concerned Government authority.
3.4.5 Maldives Pensions Administration Office
Article 12 of the Maldives Pensions Act (8/2009) introduced the Maldives Retirement Pension Scheme. It is mandatory for the private and public sectors as well as the self-Employed to participate in the contributory Maldives Retirement Pension Scheme. Maldives Pensions Administration Office is a key stakeholder for this project.
3.4.6 Health Protection Agency
Health Protection Agency has mandate to establish policies to respond to public health emergencies; classify situations which may be harmful to health and establish methods to act in such a situation. HPA’s mandate also covers identifying health hazards, eliminating risk, reporting health hazards, and orders on things to be done or not done in relation to a building.
3.4.7 Ministry of Defence and National Security
According to Act 04/75, Substances Prohibited to be Brought into the Maldives Act: Chemical substances are under import, use and manufacture control unless accompanied with a special
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3.4.8 Atoll Council
The Maldives is grouped into 20 administrative areas under a new local governance system Raa Atoll has an elected Atoll Council located in Ungoofaaru. The Atoll Council Office is the main focal point of Government Ministries in Male’ and they co-ordinate and liaise with government ministries and elected island councils on all issues relating to the Atoll. A copy of this EIA will be submitted to the Atoll Council.
Atoll Council’s letter of receipt is attached to the report.
3.5 Guiding Policies and Documents
3.5.1 National Environmental Action Plan II (NEAP II)
The aim of NEAP II is to protect and preserve the environment of the Maldives and to sustainably manage the country’s natural resources for the collective benefit and enjoyment of present and future generations.
Accordingly, the key strategies of the NEAP II are:
• Continuous assessment of the state of the environment in the Maldives, including impacts of human activities on land, atmosphere, freshwater, lagoons, reefs and the ocean; and the effects of these activities on human well-being • Development and implementation of management methods suitable for the natural and social environment of the Maldives and maintain or enhance environmental quality and protect human health, while at the same time using resources on a sustainable basis • Ensure stakeholder participation in the decision-making process by consultation and collaboration with all relevant sectors of society • Preparation and implementation of comprehensive national environmental legislation in order to provide for responsible and effective management of the environment • Adhering to international and regional environmental conventions and agreements and implementation of commitments embodied in such conventions. Furthermore, NEAP II specifies priority actions in the following areas:
• Climate change and sea level rise; coastal zone management; • Biological diversity conservation; integrated reef resources management; • Integrated water resources management; • Management of solid waste and sewerage;
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• Pollution control and management of hazardous waste; • Sustainable tourism development; • Land resources management and sustainable agriculture • Human settlement and urbanization.
3.5.2 Waste Management Policy
The aim of the waste management policy is to formulate and implement guidelines and means for solid waste management in order to maintain a healthy environment. Accordingly, the key elements of the policy include:
• Ensure safe disposal of solid waste and encourage recycling and reduction of waste generated; • Develop guidelines on waste management and disposal and advocate to enforce such guidelines through inter-sectoral collaboration; • Ensure safe disposal of chemical, hazardous and industrial waste. The proponents of this project must be aware of the policy and all solid and hazardous waste produced in this project should be disposed according to the Environmental Management Plan for the project, which reflects the principles of the Waste Management Policy.
3.6 International Conventions
3.6.1 Convention on Biological Diversity
The Maldives is a party to the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity. The objective of the convention is “the conservation of biological diversity, the sustainable use of its components and the fair and equitable sharing of the benefits arising out of the utilization of genetic resources, including by appropriate access to genetic resources and by appropriate transfer of relevant technologies, taking into account all rights over those resources and to technologies, and by appropriate funding”. The proposed development activities outlined in this project does not fall on any area recognised for its ecological value. Therefore, it is unlikely there will be a major loss of biodiversity. The loss is not going to be significant at atoll or national level.
3.6.2 International Plant Protection Convention
The Maldives has become a party to the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC) as a step to protecting native plant species in the Maldives from the risk of diseases introduced by imported plant varieties. The Maldives adhered to the IPPC on 3 October 2006 and the Convention requires that certificates of phytosanitary condition and origin of consignments of plants and plant products be used for import and export of plants and plant materials. Contracting
Prepared by: CDE Consulting Page|62 EIA for the Proposed Agricultural Development Project in Gaaundoodhoo Island, Raa Atoll parties have the full authority to regulate entry of plants and plant products and may prescribe restrictions on imports or prohibit importation of particular plants or plant products. Thus, it is advisable that the proponent be aware of the requirements of IPPC and obtains the necessary phytosanitary certificates if any plants are to be imported to stabilise the beach or for landscaping.
3.6.3 UNFCCC and Kyoto Protocol
The Maldives is a party to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and the Kyoto Protocol to the UNFCCC. The objective of the Convention is to achieve, in accordance with the relevant provisions of the Convention, stabilization of greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere at a level that would prevent dangerous anthropogenic interference with the climate system. Such a level should be achieved within a time frame sufficient to allow ecosystems to adapt naturally to climate change, to ensure that food production is not threatened and to enable economic development to proceed in a sustainable manner.
The IPCC defines mitigation “as an anthropogenic intervention to reduce the sources or enhance the sinks of greenhouse gases.” The greenhouse gas inventory of the Maldives forms an integral part of the First National Communication of the Maldives to the UNFCCC. In March 2009, the President of the Maldives has announced the target to make Maldives carbon neutral by 2020. Hence, in the implementation of the project, careful attention needs to be given to ensure energy efficiency and reduce transport related fuel consumption. Furthermore, planting of beach vegetation would help in mitigation of greenhouse gas emissions from the project.
The IPCC defines adaptation “as an adjustment in natural or human systems in response to actual or expected climatic stimuli or their effects.” Various type of adaptation includes anticipatory and reactive adaptation; private and public adaptation; and autonomous and planned adaptation. The adaptation policies and strategies of the Maldives are given in the Maldives National Adaptation Programme of Action (NAPA). The replenishment of the beach can be considered as a long-term adaptation measure against beach erosion caused by rising sea levels.
3.6.4 International labour related commitments
The Maldives is a party to major ILO conventions on fundamental labour rights. Maldives became the 183rd member state of the International Labour Organization (ILO) on 15 May 2009.
3.6.4.1 Ratified ILO Conventions
On 4 January 2013, the Government of the Maldives ratified the 8 core conventions on the ILO’s fundamental labour rights: the Forced Labour Convention, 1930 (No. 29), the Abolition of
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Forced Labour Convention, 1957 (No. 105), the Freedom of Association and Protection of the Right to Organise Convention, 1948 (No. 87), the Right to Organise and Collective Bargaining Convention, 1949 (No. 98), the Equal Remuneration Convention, 1951 (No. 100), the Discrimination (Employment and Occupation) Convention, 1958 (No. 111), the Minimum Age Convention, 1973 (No. 138), and the Worst Forms of Child Labour Convention, 1999 (No. 182).
3.6.4.2 Foreign Migrant Workers
There are three international standards that apply to foreign migrant workers. They are the ILO Migration for Employment Convention, 1949 (No. 97), the ILO Migrant Workers (Supplementary Provisions) Convention, 1975 (No. 143), and the 1990 1990 UN International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families (CMW).
The ILO Convention 97 provides the foundation for equal treatment between nationals and regular migrants in areas such as recruitment procedures, living and working conditions, access to justice, tax and social security regulations. It sets out details for contract conditions, the participation of migrants in job training or promotion and offers provision for appeals against unjustified termination of employment or expulsion, and other measures to regulate the entire migration process.
ILO Convention 143 has two main objectives. First objective is to regulate migration flows, eliminate clandestine migration and combat trafficking and smuggling activities. The second objective is to facilitate integration of migrants in host societies. The convention contains minimum norms of protection applicable to migrants in irregular situation, or who were employed illegally, including in situations where their cannot be regularized. Article I established States to “respect the basic human rights of all migrant workers,” independent of their migratory status or legal situation in the host State.
In 1990, UN Member States adopted the United Nations (UN) Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families (CMW). The CMW is recognized as the most comprehensive international instrument on the rights of migrant workers and it extended the legal framework for migration, treatment of migrants, and prevention of exploitation and irregular migration. The CMW reaffirms and re-establishes the basic human rights norms that it considers necessary for migrant workers to have free and equal enjoyment of rights and dignity throughout all stages of labour migration.
The above three Conventions (97, 143 and CMW) together provide a comprehensive basis for policy and practice regarding foreign migrant workers and their family members. The Maldives has not yet ratified these three conventions.
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3.6.4.3 Industrial Workers
There are six international standards that apply to industrial workers. They are the ILO Hours of Work (Industry) Convention, 1919 (No. 1), Weekly Rest (Industry) Convention, 1921 (No. 14), Night Work Convention, 1990 (No. 171), Night Work (Women) Convention (Revised), 1948 (No. 89), Holidays with Pay Convention (Revised), 1970 (No. 132) and Safety and Health in Construction Convention, 1988 (No. 167).
The ILO Convention 1 limits the Hours of Work in Industrial Undertakings to Eight in the Day and Forty-eight in the Week. If the hours of work on one or more days of the week are less than eight, the limit of eight hours may be exceeded on the remaining days of the week, but not by more than 1 hour. Also, in the case where workers are employed in shifts, workers can be employed in excess of eight hours in any one day and forty-eight hours in any one week, if the average number of hours over a period of three weeks or less does not exceed eight per day and forty-eight per week.
The ILO Convention 14 requires workers employed in any industrial undertaking to be allocated in every period of seven days a period of rest comprising at least twenty-four consecutive hours.
ILO Convention 171 concerns night work. It requires specific measures to be taken for night workers in order to protect their health, assist them to meet their family and social responsibilities, provide opportunities for occupational advancement, and compensate them appropriately. Such measures shall also be taken in the fields of safety and maternity protection for all workers performing night work. ILO Convention 89 states that women, regardless of age, should not be employed during the night in any public or private industrial undertaking.
ILO Convention 132 concerns Annual Holidays. It states that workers should be entitled to an annual paid holiday of a specified minimum length, no less than three working weeks for one year of service.
ILO Convention 167 concerns the Safety and Health in Construction. It requires all appropriate precautions to be taken to ensure that all workplaces are safe and without risk of injury to the safety and health of workers.
ILO policy regarding agricultural workers
The ILO Convention 184 is specifically related to Safety and Health in Agriculture. It requires employers to ensure the safety and health of workers in every aspect related to the work including carrying out appropriate risk assessments in relation to the safety and health of workers and, on the basis of these results, adopt preventive and protective measures to ensure that under all conditions of their intended use, all agricultural activities, workplaces, machinery, equipment,
Prepared by: CDE Consulting Page|65 EIA for the Proposed Agricultural Development Project in Gaaundoodhoo Island, Raa Atoll chemicals, tools and processes under the control of the employer are safe and comply with prescribed safety and health standards. Employers should also provide adequate training to workers on the hazards and risks associated with their work and the action to be taken for their protection. The Convention limits the minimum age for working in agriculture to 18 years or above.
More recently, the trend has been towards more general instruments that apply to all categories of workers, and many of the agriculture-specific instruments have been revised. As such, ILO states that this Convention may be denounced around 20 Sep 2023 - 20 Sep 2024.
The Maldives has not yet ratified these conventions.
3.6.4.4 Human Trafficking
In 2002, the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) adopted and signed the SAARC Convention on Prevention and Combating Trafficking in Women and Children. Under this Convention SAARC member states have established a regional taskforce to combat trafficking of women and children in South Asia, including various aspects of prevention, interdiction and suppression of trafficking in women and children; the repatriation and rehabilitation of victims of trafficking and prevent the use of women and children in international prostitution networks, particularly where the countries of the SAARC region are the countries of origin, transit and destination.
3.7 Compliance
In general, the proposed developments are in compliance with the laws and regulations described above. Where there is further special requirement to comply, the EMP identifies measures and mechanisms required to comply.
All contractors and subcontractors are responsible for carrying out the project activities in accordance to the legislative instruments and policies in this chapter during the construction and operational phase of the project.
Table 3.2 below shows a list of compliance requirements
Table 3.2: Summary of Approvals required for the project
Compliance procedure Relevant Authority Acquire a conditional approval of the Ministry of Fisheries and Agriculture concept Submit an Environmental Impact EPA, Atoll Council Assessment
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Compliance procedure Relevant Authority Decision Note issuance for the EPA Environmental Impact Assessment Land Transfer to Proponent Ministry of Fisheries and Agriculture Land Gazette update Land and Survey Authority Aquaculture license Ministry of Fisheries and Agriculture Dredging and Reclamation Approval EPA Dewatering permit (if required) EPA Registration of waste site and vessels used Waste Management Facility (Vaandhoo) for transporting waste EPA Registration of Desalination Plant EPA Wastewater disposal consent EPA
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4 EXISTING ENVIRONMENT
4.1 Physical Environment
4.1.1 Meteorology
4.1.1.1 Climate
The climate in Maldives is warm and humid, typical of the tropics. The average temperature ranges between 25°C to 30°C and relative humidity varies from 73 percent to 85 percent. The annual average rainfall is approximately 1,948 mm. As Maldives lies on the equator, Maldives receives plenty of sunshine throughout the year. Significant variation is observed in the climate between the northern and the southern atolls. The annual average rainfall in the southern atolls is higher than the northern atolls. In addition, greater extremes of temperature are also recorded in the southern atolls. On average southern atolls receive 2704 hours of sunshine each year. Table 4.1 provides a summary of key meteorological findings for Maldives.
Table 4.1: Key Meteorological information of the Maldives
Parameter Data Average Rainfall 9.1mm/day in May, November; 1.1mm/day in February Maximum Rainfall 184.5 mm/day in October 1994 Average air 30.0 °C in November 1973; 31.7 °C in April temperature Extreme Air 34.1 °C in April 1973;17.2 °C in April 1978 Temperature Average wind speed 3.7 m/s in March; 5.7 m/s in January, June Maximum wind speed W 31.9 m/s in November 1978 Average air pressure 1012 mb in December; 1010 mb in April
4.1.1.2 Monsoon
The climate of Maldives is characterised by the monsoons of the Indian Ocean. Monsoon wind reversal significantly affects weather patterns. Two monsoon seasons are observed in Maldives: The Northeast (Iruvai) and the Southwest (Hulhangu) monsoon. The parameters that best distinguish the two monsoons are wind and rainfall patterns. The southwest monsoon is the rainy season while the northeast monsoon is the dry season. The southwest monsoon occurs from May to September and the northeast monsoon is from December to February. The transition period of southwest monsoon occurs between March and April while that of northeast monsoon occurs from October to November.
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4.1.1.3 Winds
The winds that occur across Maldives are mostly determined by the monsoon seasons. The two monsoons are considered mild given that Maldives is located close to the equator. As a result, strong winds and gales are infrequent although storms and line squalls can occur, usually in the period May to July. During stormy conditions gusts of up to 60 knots have been recorded at Male’.
Wind has been uniform in speed and direction over the past twenty-plus monsoon seasons in the Maldives (Naseer, 2003). Wind speed is usually higher in central region of Maldives during both monsoons, with a maximum wind speed recorded at 18 m/s for the period 1975 to 2001. Mean wind speed as highest during the months May and October in the central region. Wind analysis indicates that the monsoon is considerably stronger in central and northern region of Maldives compared to the south (Naseer, 2003).
Besides the annual monsoonal wind variations there are occasional tropical climatic disturbances (tropical storms or low intensity tropical cyclones) in the central region which increases wind speeds up to 110 km/h, precipitation to 30 to 40 cm over a 24 hour period and storm surges up to 3 m in open ocean (UNDP, 2006).
Table 4.2 summarises the wind conditions in central Maldives throughout a year. Medium term meteorological data from Hulhule’ meteorological centre (see figures 4.1 to 4.3) and findings from long-term Comprehensive Ocean-Atmosphere Data Set (COADS) are used in this analysis.
Table 4.2: Summary of general wind conditions from National Meteorological Centre
Season Month Wind December Predominantly from NW-NE. NE - Monsoon January High Speeds from W February From all directions. Mainly W. Transition Period 1 March High Speeds from W. April May Mainly from W. SW - Monsoon June July High Speeds from W. August September October Mainly from W. Transition Period 2 November High Speeds from W
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Figure 4.1: Monthly frequencies of wind direction in central Maldives based on National Meteorological Centre 10 year data (adapted from Naseer, 2003)
N NNW NNE 2500
NW 2000 NE 1500 1000 WNW ENE 500
W E
WSW ESE
SW SE
SSW SSE S
Figure 4.2: 24 year wind frequencies recorded at National Meteorological Centre
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Figure 4.3: Mean daily wind speed and direction recorded at National Meteorological Centre (1978 to 2004)
The Disaster Risk Profile of Maldives (UNDP, 2006) reports 11 cyclonic events over the Maldives in the last 128 years and only one event over the central Maldives. All of these events were of category 1 cyclones. There have been no cyclonic events since 1993.
Gaaundoodhoo Island is located in a highrisk cyclonic hazard zone which has the potential for a maximum probable cyclonic wind speed of 84.2 kts (UNDP, 2006). The project site is expected to receive regular annual strong winds during the peak SW monsoon
4.1.1.4 Rainfall
The average annual rainfall for the archipelago is 2,124 mm. There are regional variations in average annual rainfall: southern atolls receive approximately 2,280 mm, and northern atolls receive approximately 1,790 mm annually (MEC, 2004). Mean monthly rainfall also varies substantially throughout the year with the dry season getting considerably less rainfall. This pattern is less prominent in the southern half, however. The proportions of flood and drought years are relatively small throughout the archipelago, and the southern half is less prone to drought (UNDP, 2006).
The nearest meteorological station to Gaaundoodhoo island is the National Meteorological Centre in Hulhule’ Island. The mean annual rainfall in Hulhule’ is 1991.5 mm with a Standard Deviation of 316.4 mm and the mean monthly rainfall is 191.6 mm. Rainfall varies throughout the year with mean highest rainfall during October, December and May and lowest between February and April (See Figure 4.4).
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Mean Monthly Rainfall in Hulhule' 250
200
150
100 Men Rainfall (mm)
50
0 J F M A M J J A S O N D Month
Figure 4.4: Mean monthly rainfall in Hulhumale’ (1975 – 2004)
Analysis of daily maximum annual rainfall data shows high variability, including extremes (see Figure 4.5 below). However, no significant long-term trends are evident in the Hulhulé data.
Figure 4.5: Maximum daily rainfall by year in Hulhule’ (1975 – 2005) (Source: Hay, 2006)
The probable maximum precipitations predicted for Hulhulé by UNDP (2006) are shown in table 4.3.
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Table 4.3: Probable maximum precipitation for various periods in Hulhulé (UNDP, 2006)
Return Period Station 50 year 100 year 200 year 500 year Hulhule’ 187.4 203.6 219.8 241.1
4.1.1.5 Temperature
Daily temperatures of Maldives vary little throughout the year with a mean annual temperature of 28°C. The annual mean maximum temperature recorded for Male’ during the period 1967- 1995 was 30.4°C and the annual mean minimum temperature for the same period was 25.7°C. The highest recorded temperature for Male’ was 34.1°C on 16th and 28th of April 1973. The hottest month recorded was April 1975 with a maximum monthly average temperature of 32.7°C, the next highest being 32.6°C in April 1998. The lowest minimum average temperature of 23.7°C was recorded in July 1992.
There is considerable inter annual variability in extreme temperatures for Hulhulé as shown in figure 4.6 A maximum temperature of at least 33.5oC is rare at Hulhulé and has a return period of 20 years (Hay, 2006).
Figure 4.6: Maximum temperature by year in Hulhulé, 1975 – 2005 (Hay, 2006)
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4.1.2 Hydrology
4.1.2.1 Tidal Pattern
Tides in the Maldives are mixed and semi-diurnal/diurnal. Water levels at the site vary mainly in response to tides, storm surge or tsunamis. Tidal variations are referred to the standard station at Hulhulé Island. Typical spring and neap tidal ranges are approximately 1.0 m and 0.3 m, respectively (MEC, 2004). Maximum spring tidal range in Hulhulé is approximately 1.1 m. There is also a 0.2 m seasonal fluctuation in regional mean sea level, with an increase of about 0.1 m during February to April and a decrease of 0.1 m during September to November. Table 4.4 summarizes the tidal elevations reported at Hulhulé, which is representative of tidal conditions at the project site
Table 4.4: Tidal variations at Hulhulé Island (Velana International Airport)
Tide Level Referred to Mean Sea level Highest Astronomical Tide (HAT) +0.66 Mean Higher High Water (MHHW) +0.39 Mean Lower High Water (MLHW) +0.24 Mean Sea Level (MSL) 0.00 Mean Higher Low Water (MHLW) -0.12 Mean Lower Low Water (MHLW) -0.32 Lowest Astronomical Tide (LAT) -0.81
Figure 4.7: Predicted tides for April 2017, based on data from Department of Meteorology, Maldives
4.1.2.2 Wave Conditions
There are two major types of waves observed along the islands of Maldives. The first type is wave generated by local monsoon wind with a period of 3-8 seconds and the second type is swells generated by distance storms with a period of 14-20 seconds [Kench et. al (2006), DHI (1999), Binnie Black & Veatch (2000)]. The local monsoon predominantly generates wind waves, which are typically strongest during April-July in the southwest monsoon period. Wave data for Male and Hulhulé between June 1988 and January 1990 (Lanka Hydraulics 1988a &
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1998b) shows that the maximum significant wave height (Hs) recorded for June was 1.23 m with a mean period (Tm) of 7.53s. The maximum recorded Hs for July was 1.51 m with a Tm of 7.74s. The mean wave periods were 5.0 – 9.0s and the peak wave periods were within 8.0 – 13.0s.
Waves studies around Maldives have identified the presence of swell waves approaching predominantly from a southwest to a southerly direction Kench et. al (2006), Young (1999), DHI (1999), Binnie Black & Veatch (2000) and Naseer (2003). The proposed site is exposed to swell waves approaching from the SW. The swells are generally present throughout the year but increases in intensity between June and August. The timings of these waves usually coincide with Southwest monsoon and occur between May and November with peak periods between June to October.
The island is located on the eastern rim of Raa atoll and is exposed to NE swells from the Indian Ocean all year around. The northern side is exposed to monsoonal wind waves when wind blows from the NE to NW quadrant. Due to the relatively small area of the reef, the swells reach the shoreline unmitigated. In summary, the waters near the island is dominated by swells due to year around waves from Indian Ocean and narrow reef on the atoll side.
Due to the location of the island on the Southern rim of the atoll, the islands’ southern shoreline is directly is exposed to year-round SW swells from the Indian Ocean. The northern side is exposed monsoonal wind waves particularly when the wind blows from the NE to NW quadrant.
Maldives experiences occasional flooding caused by long distance swell waves that are generated by South Indian Ocean storms (Goda 1988). The swell waves of height 3 m that flooded Male’ and Hulhulé’ in 1987 are said to have originated from a low-pressure system off west coast of Australia. In addition, Maldives has recently been subject to an earthquake- generated tsunami reaching heights of 4.0 m on land (UNEP, 2005). Historical wave data from Indian Ocean countries show that tsunamis have occurred on more than one occasion, most notable has been the 1883 tsunami resulting from the volcanic explosion of Karakatoa (Choi et al., 2003).
4.1.2.3 Swell waves and storm surges
Waves studies around Maldives have identified the presence of swell waves approaching predominantly from a southwest to a southerly direction [Kench et. al (2006), Young (1999), DHI(1999), Binnie Black & Veatch (2000) and Naseer (2003)].
The timing of the long-distance swell waves is associated with the South Indian Ocean storm activity (Young 1999). The island is exposed to periodic swell waves approaching from the SE. The shallow reef reduces wave energy substantially before it reaches the island shoreline.
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Waves generated from abnormal events could also travel against the predominant swell propagation patterns (Goda, 1998), causing flooding on the eastern and southern islands of Maldives (UNDP, 2009). In addition to swell waves, islands of the Maldives are also exposed to storm surges associated with localised storms and cyclonic events (UNDP 2009).
As noted in the previous section, Gaaundoodhoo Island is located in a high-risk cyclonic hazard zone. It has the potential for a 2.30 m storm tide in a 500-year return period (UNDP, 2006, p45).
4.1.2.4 Currents
In general, currents which affect the sea areas around the islands reef system can be the result of one or more of tidal currents, wind-induced currents and wave-induced currents. It is presumed that dominating two monsoon season winds have a greater effect on both oceanic currents and lagoon currents around Maldives. Westward flowing currents are dominated from January to March and eastwardly from May to November.
In situ current measurements of the project site varied based on location and tide. These measurements will be affected by the monsoon and the tide cycle as well. Data on current flow at the site is provided in Figure 4.9. These measurements were taken during the middle of the SW monsoon.
These measurements should be treated with caution as it represents data for a single day and was observed only in a one-hour window. Prolonged measurements over two seasons are required to provide exact values of current speed.
The relatively high speed of the current measured on the eastern side of the island maybe driven by relentless waves incident on that side as it is exposed to the swells from Indian ocean all year around.
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Figure 4.8: Estimated wave conditions around Gaaundoodhoo Island
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Figure 4.9: Currents measurement at Gaaundoodhoo Island on September 2018
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4.2 Physical Environment
4.2.1 Marine Water Quality Assessment
The primary objective of the marine water quality sampling was to determine the baseline conditions of the marine water in around the project site. Water samples were collected from 5 different locations.
Appendix F shows the test results of the marine water samples collected.
The optimal pH range for seawater is between 8 – 8.3, all the samples were within this range.
Salinity level of all samples were within the normal range for seawater.
Overall clarity of water samples was very good, and no samples showed suspended solid level above 5 mg/L.
Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD) was 1 mg/L for samples 1, 3 and 4 while sample 2 had slightly elevated levels at 2 mg/L.
Table 4.5: Marine water quality assessment results
Results Parameter SW1 SW2 SW3 SW4 Clear Clear Clear Clear Physical Appearance with with with with particles particles particles particles pH 8.10 8.13 8.11 8.13 Salinity (‰) 35.36 35.03 36.33 35.20 Temperature (oC) 22.6 22.5 22.5 22.5 Total Suspended Solids (mg/L) <5 <5 <5 <5 Turbidity 0.296 0.316 0.282 0.259 Nitrate (mg/L) 5.5 5.9 8.7 5.8 Nitrogen Ammonia (mg/L) <0.02 0.05 <0.02 0.02 Sulphate (mg/L) 3000 2700 2700 2650 Phosphate (mg/L) 0.13 0.08 0.11 0.07 Biological Oxygen Demand - (mg/l) 1 2 1 1
4.2.2 Ground Water Quality Assessment
Appendix F shows the test results of the ground water samples collected during field visits. Groundwater assessment was conducted to assess the ambient conditions of groundwater.
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The salinity levels on the island were quite low and the pH range was also in an acceptable range. The levels for Sulphate, Phosphate and Nitrogen Ammonia are also within acceptable range.
Table 4.6: Results for water quality testing for ground water
Results Parameter GW1 GW2 GW3 GW4 GW5 Yellowish Yellowish Pale yellow Pale yellow Yellowish Physical with with with with with Appearance particles particles particles particles particles pH 7.44 7.38 7.69 7.67 7.16 Salinity (‰) 0.22 0.22 1.00 1.05 1.20 Temperature (oC) 22.4 22.4 22.3 22.3 22.4 Nitrogen 0.63 0.60 0.07 0.11 0.32 Ammonia (mg/L) Sulphate (mg/L) <10 <10 72 85 62 Phosphate (mg/L) 7.45 7.45 0.62 0.40 2.50 Total Coliforms >2420 >2420 >2420 >2420 >2420 (MPN/100ml) Faecal Coliforms >2420 >2420 411 980 >2420 (MPN/100ml)
4.2.3 Bathymetry
A detailed bathymetric survey of the study site was undertaken during the field visit on 30th September 2018. Survey results have been summarised in bathy charts Appendix G. The depth figures presented are in meters below sea level (MSL).
The results show that much of the area close to island is shallower than 1.0m MSL. However, a final decision on whether any dredging is required, is to be undertaken after a contractor in- survey. An EIA addendum will be required for this activity.
4.2.4 Noise
Ambient noise levels were observed throughout the island. The main source of noise was due to birds such as crows, human induced noises and from high winds and wave activity. Noise readings were taken at 5 locations. Average minimum noise levels were recorded at 59.32 dB and average maximum noise levels were recorded at 72.88 dB.
The detailed data for noise recordings at the site is given in the table below.
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Table 4.7: Average noise levels recorded at proposed project site
ID Latitude Longitude Min (dB) Max (dB) N1 N 5.748916° E 73.017378° 58.3 72.6 N2 N 5.748865° E 73.015919° 55.2 68.4 N3 N 5.749940° E 73.015043° 56.7 65.9 N4 N 5.748829° E 73.013874° 66.2 86.4 N5 N 5.750611° E 73.016424° 60.2 71.1
Figure 4.10: Noise level measurement sites
4.2.5 Soil
In order to analyse the soil profile of the area, 2 existing dug-up areas on the island (see Appendix D) were surveyed. The soil conditions of the site were similar to soil conditions of other islands across the Maldives, consisting considerable quantities of un-weathered corals as parent materials, coral rocks and sand. The soil is generally poor and deficient in potassium and several other micronutrients; particularly iron, manganese and zinc. Though the phosphorus content of the soils is high it is present mostly in the form of calcium phosphate and, thus, remains unavailable to plants.
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4.2.5.1 Profile 1
There was a deep layer of black soil and peat observed as top soil (30cm), followed by a shallow transition layer of black-to-white sand (20cm). This was followed by a layer (15cm) of white sand before hitting the hardpan layer (5cm). A further layer of pale white sand (10cm) is observed before reaching the water table at a depth of 0.8 meters.
The pH of the water sample taken at the site was 7.38.
4.2.5.2 Profile 2
There was a shallow layer of peat and mud observed as top soil (10cm), followed by a shallow transition layer of black-to-white sand (15cm). This was followed by a layer (15cm) of white sand before hitting the hardpan layer (5cm). A further layer of pale white sand (5cm) is observed before reaching the water table at a depth of 0.5 meters.
The pH of the water sample taken at the site was 7.67.
4.2.6 Land and Marine Resource Use
The following land use activities were practised on the island prior to the development proposal.
• Limited forestry activities by the residents of Hulhudhuffaaru. This include; Collection of coconuts, wood and thatch leaves Collection of Kashikeyo • Some abandoned structures observed • Has been used by picnic goers from Hulhudhuffaaru occasionally
According to the locals, the marine area surrounding the island has not been used for any particular purpose in the past.
4.2.7 Coastal Environment
4.2.7.1 Beach
Shoreline surveys for the island are presented in Appendix G. The island is surrounded by a small reef, extending only about 50 metres seaward from the low tide line on the northern side. As a result, the beach is exposed to considerable wave action, clear in the severe erosion taking place on the north-west and western side of the island. The island has a small beach approximately 40 metres at the widest point. In general, the island does not have a good beach system due to relentless action of waves on shorelines.
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Beach characteristics could be usefully determined by two main features: i) beach composition; ii) beach profiles.
Beach composition and sediment characteristics
Fine sand makes up the limited beach length of the island, with majority of the perimeter surrounded by beach rock with solidified coral pavements, as is expected of ocean side environments.
Beach Profiles
Beach profiles provide invaluable information about the sediment volume, beach slope and changes to volume and slope over time. In addition, the slope, height and width are good indicators of wave and wind conditions, and erosion dominant areas. In general, gentler slopes and wider widths indicate an accreting area with generally lower wave energy and erosion at the time of the survey. Steeper slopes indicate stronger wave energy particularly if the beach material is composed of coarser material. Steeper slopes are also associated with severe erosion, in other areas. Overall the beach profiles are expected to change with season.
Profiles on the northern side show a steeper slope indicating the high energy waves incident on this area, as was seen during the day of the beach surveys. The north-western profiles show a gentler slope, with particularly steep slows on the western and south-western side indicating zones of erosion.
Beach profiles for the island are presented in Appendix E.
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4.3 Natural and Biological Environment
4.3.1 Terrestrial ecology
4.3.1.1 Flora
General characteristics
Raa Gaaundoodhoo is a medium sized island that has a well-established vegetation system. The island used to be an inhabited island some 20 years ago with several abandoned structures still being visible throughout the island. As per the locals of Hulhudhuffaaru, the island is currently being used by the residents Hulhudhuffaaru to collect forestry products such as coconuts and thatch leaves on bi-monthly basis.
The island has a very low elevation in the central parts of the island where marshy like ground is observed frequently in small patches. A small area was also observed where mangrove vegetation Kan’doo (Bruguiera cylindrica) was observed. These trees were small-to-medium in size and no large mangrove trees were observed. A single Kulhlhavah (Sonneratia caseolaris) tree was also observed in the same part of the island. As stated above, several patches of marshy area with small ponds of water (due to heavy rainfall) were observed in the central parts of the island. No permanent in-land water body was observed on the island.
As this was a previously inhabited island, and is currently being used frequently by the locals, several footpaths are observed allowing easy access throughout the island. The old football ground is the only clearing observed on the island which is currently overrun by grasses.
The top canopy of the island is dominated by palm (Cocos nucifera) trees with the south-central parts also having a few Maakashikeyo (Pandanus odoratissimus) dominating the top canopy. The under-storey is dominated by hardwood species such as Dhiggaa (Hibiscus tiliaceus), Uni (Guettarda speciose), Midhili (Terminalia catappa), Funa (Calophyllum inophyllum) and Boakashikeyo (Pandanus tectorius). The shoreline is dominated by species such as Magoo (Scaevola taccada) Kuredhi (Pemphis acidula) and Boakashikeyo (Pandanus tectorius).
The western and the southern shorelines of the island is severely eroded showing exposed beach rock while a beach is observed on the northern and eastern side of the island.
Vegetation Types
For the purposes of this assessment, the major groups of vegetation can be classed into the following categories of vegetation and land use. The main reason for this adoption is the specific nature of vegetation in small coral islands. Vegetation classification was undertaken using remote sensing and GIS software based on the methodology outlined at the start of this section.
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The results of the vegetation classification are presented in Figure 4.11. 1. Littoral Edge Scrubland: Found predominantly along the shorelines of the island and the north-western half of the island and are dominated mainly by Funa (Calophyllum inophyllum), Midhili (Terminilia catappa) Uni (Guettarda speciose), Kaani (Cordia subcordata), Boakashikeyo (Pandanus tectorius) and Ruh (Cocus nucifera).
2. Coconut dominated forest: Dominated by coconut palms (Cocus nucifera) in the upper canopy with other woody species such as Midhili (Terminilia catappa), Maakashikeyo (Pandanus odoratissumus) and Funa (Calophyllum inophyllum) dominating the understory.
3. Open Areas: Abandoned football ground overgrown by pioneer species such as Hudhuhuippilaa (Aerva lanata), Thunbuli hui vina (Eragrostis amabilis), Bakari-nukaa (Turnera ulmifolia) and Rakimaa (Stachytarpheta indica). The area and proportion of vegetation classes in relation to the overall island vegetation cover is presented in Table 4.8 below:
Table 4.8: Area and percentage cover by vegetation class
CODE Land Use Description Area (sq m) Percent LES Littoral Edge Scrubland 81,406 55.4% CDF Coconut Dominated Forest 64,356 43.8% OA Open Areas 1,097 0.8% Total 146,859 100%
Estimates of number of trees
Based on the vegetation classification system and ground truthing data, the density of vegetation in each the classified zones were used to estimate the number of trees on the island. Due the high uncertainties involved in this calculation, especially with regard to the smaller trees, a low, medium and high estimate was used. It is estimated that there are about 4,000 to 10,000 trees are on the island of Gaaundoodhoo.
These figures have been derived using a combination of remote sensing technology, field observations and consultations with the inhabitants. It uses a density analyses method where a low, medium and high area (in sqm) for a given tree type is calculated and divided against the vegetation classes. The density is derived from actual sampling during field assessment. Caution is raised here that no tree count figures can be exact due to high density of vegetation cover on the island. What is provided in this report is the best guess estimate and should not be used for legal or compensation purposes.
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4.3.1.2 Fauna
General Characteristics
Gaaundoodhoo had a very low level of terrestrial faunal biodiversity present during the field visit, especially in terms of bird species, despite the moderate size and remoteness of the area.
As the occurrence of fauna was found to be minimal during the brief survey period, faunal survey was carried out based on similar conditions found elsewhere in the Maldives, and local accounts on species found at the location.
Birds
The most commonly observed species on Gaaundoodhoo were the Kaalhu (Corvus Linnaeus). The only resident bird observed were the Koveli (Eudynamys scolopaceus).
Some of the sea-faring and migratory birds known to frequent the island include; Maakanaa (Ardea cinerea), Dhandifulhu dhooni (Phaethon lebturus), Findhana (Actitis hypoleucos) and Kirudhooni (Sterna sumatrana). These birds were found in very few numbers during the survey period, with the field team spotting only 1 Maakana, 3 Findhana and 2 Dhandifulhu dhooni.
However, due to the short amount of time that is usually spent during field visits, the number and type of species recorded may not be completely accurate to study avian fauna of the island. In order to complete a detailed study of birds found on this island, it will require several months of observation.
Reptiles and Mammals
Records of reptiles and mammals are minimal. The only terrestrial mammals recorded on site were the Fruit bat (Pteropus giganteus ariel) and the rat (Rattus norvegicus).
Only five reptile species were identified: namely one gecko (Hemidactylus frenatus), the White- spotted supple skink (Lygosoma albopunctata), the Island blind snake (Ramphotyphlos braminus), Common garden lizard (Calotes versicolor) and the common wolf snake (Lycodon aulicus).
Though some of these species were not spotted on site, based on previous understandings on Maldivian biodiversity, it is safe to assume that these species will be present on these island(s).
No other reptiles or mammals were recorded at the site. The island is also not known as a turtle nesting site with the field team not observing and visible signs and this was also corroborated by the locals.
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Crustaceans and Amphibians
Crustaceans observed on Gaaundoodhoo include the Stalk-eyed Ghost crab (Ocypode ceratophtalmus), the Little Ghost crab (Ocypode cordimana), and the Variable Land Hermit Crab (Coenobita variabilis) found on the beach.
No amphibians were observed during the field visit.
4.3.1.3 Pest & Diseases
Pests
Among animal pests, rats (Rattus norvegicus) were the most notable species recorded on the island. Rats currently feed on fallen coconuts and other food waste, but are expected to be controlled once the island comes into full operation and appropriate control measures are put in place by the management.
The only significant floral insect pests, observed in the general environment of the island was the Rhinocerous beetle (Oryctes rhinoceros) on the coconut. However, there were no signs of the presence of the deadlier Coconut Hispine beetle (Brontispa longissima) on the island.
Mosquitoe (Culicoidea family, genus Unknown) population on the island is moderately high due to the island being uninhabited. It is expected to be controlled further once the management comes into place and starts to keep the general environment of the island clean and install proper irrigation systems.
Diseases
No floral diseases were observed in the general environment of the island.
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Figure 4.11: Vegetation classification results
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4.3.1.1 Vegetation Pictorial Summary
Figure 4.12: locals taking forest products back to the island Figure 4.13: Coconuts and dried palm leaves are the most of Hulhudhuffaaru on small boats commonly harvested products
Figure 4.14: Central parts of the island are very low lying Figure 4.15: Abandoned structures are found throughout with marshy ground and small puddles the northern half of the island
Figure 4.16: Vegetation throughout the island is very dense Figure 4.17: The old football ground on the island with multiple footpaths available
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4.3.2 Marine Ecology
4.3.2.1 Photo quadrat Survey and Fish Census
Transect 1
This transect was deployed at 5m depth, along the reef edge on the western side of the island. This site was assessed as a control site.
Photo Quadrat survey showed that live coral coverage along transect was very low (approx. 2.5% of transect). Main coral genera observed were Porites (massive type), Pocillopora (short- digitate type), and Symphyllia radians (massive type). The dominant benthic substrate observed was rocky pavement, and sand.
Figure 4.18: Left panel shows an overview of the reef while right panel shows the benthic substrate. (T1-5m, 2018)
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80
70 60.00
60
SE 50 ±
32.50 40
30 % Mean cover % cover Mean
20
10 2.50 1.00 2.00 2.00 0 Live Coral Turf Algae (MA) Old dead coral Pavement Rubble Sand
Figure 4.19: Benthic substrate composition in Transect 1 - 5meters depth (28th September 2018)
A total of 27 fish species 15 fish families were recorded during the fish census. Highest number of fishes were recorded from families Lutjanidae (4 species). Members of Lutjanidae (Snappers) are carnivores and feeds on small fishes, crustaceans and benthic invertebrates. This site can be a potential Lutjanidae (Snappers) aggregating site when compared to the sites surveyed on the island reef.
Table 4.9: Summary of fish census data along Transect 1-5meters depth.
Abundance Species Common Name T1 Sargocentron spiniferum Sabre Squirrelfish 2 Pseudanthias squamipinnis Orange Basslet 6 Caranx melampygus Blue-fin Jack 2 Elagatis bipinnlata Rainbow Runner 2 Plectorhinchus vittatus Oriental Sweetlips 2 Monotaxis grandoculis Large-eye Bream 2 Lutjanus gibbus Humpback Snapper 6 Lutjanus bohar Red Bass (Red Snapper) 2 Macolor macularis Midnight Snapper 3 Macolor niger Black Snapper 5 Parupeneus macronema Long-barbel Goatfish 2 Chaetodon lunula Racoon Butterflyfish 2 Chaetodon kleinii Brown Butterflyfish 2
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Abundance Species Common Name T1 Forcipiger flavissimus Long-nose Butterflyfish 2 Pygoplites diacanthus Regal Angelfish 2 Dascyllus trimaculatus Three-spot Humbug 2 Abudefduf vaigiensis Sergeant Major 5 Halichoeres hortulanus Checkerboard Wrasse 2 Thalassoma amblycephalum Two-tone Wrasse 6 Coris frerei Queen Wrasse 2 Scarus strongylocephalus Sheephead Parrotfish 2 Scarus rubroviolaceus Ember Parrotfish 2 Scarus prasiognathus Green Faced Parrotfish 2 Zanclus cornutus Moorish Idol 2 Acanthurus leucosternon Powder-blue Surgeonfish 2 Naso hexacanthus Sleek Unicornfish 5 Odonus niger Blue Triggerfish 6
Transect 2
This transect was deployed at 3m depth, along the reef edge on the northern side of the island. This site was assessed as it is the nearest reef, to the proposed access jetty to the island.
Similar to Transect 1, the dominant benthic substrate was sand covered rocky pavement. Live coral coverage is 2.7%±1.56SE of the transect line. Few massive type Porites coral being dominant, followed by Pocillopora.
Figure 4.20: Left panel shows benthic substrate with live coral while right panel shows an over view of the reef with massive rocky block (T2-3m, September 2018)
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80 63.2
70
60 SE
± 50
40 24.0 30 % Mean cover % cover Mean 20
10 5.5 2.7 2.7 0.9 0.5 0.5 0 Live Coral Dead Coral Old dead Pavement Rubble Sand CA (coralline OL (other with Algae coral alage live)
Figure 4.21: Benthic substrate composition in Transect 2 - 3meters depth (28th September 2018)
A total of 30 fish species 12 fish families were recorded during the fish census. Highest number of fishes were recorded from families Labridae (7 species). This species is known to predominantly feed on benthic invertebrates, skin parasites, zooplankton and small fishes.
Table 4.10: Summary of fish census data along Transect 2 - 3 meters depth.
Abundance Species Common Name T2 Aethaloperca rogaa Red-flushed grouper 2 Scolopsis bilineata Monacle Bream 2 Parupeneus macronema Long-barbel Goatfish 2 Chaetodon trifasciatus Pinstriped Butterflyfish 2 Chaetodon guttatissimus Spotted Butterflyfish 2 Forcipiger flavissimus Long-nose Butterflyfish 2 Paracirrhites forsteri Forster's Hawkfish 2 Amphiprion nigripes Maldivian Anemonefish 2 Chromis flavipectoralis White-finned Puller 2 Chromis dimidiata Two-tone Puller 2 Abudefduf vaigiensis Sergeant Major 2 Halichoeres hortulanus Checkerboard Wrasse 2 Labroides dimidiatus Blue-streak Cleaner Wrasse 2 Gomphosus caeruleus Bird Wrasse 2 Thalassoma amblycephalum Two-tone Wrasse 4 Thalassoma hardwicke Six-bar Wrasse 2 Thalassoma janseni Jansen's Wrasse 2 Stethojulis strigiventer Silver-streaked Wrasse 2 Cetoscarus bicolor Two-colour Parrotfish 2
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Abundance Species Common Name T2 Scarus sordidus Shabby Parrotfish 2 Scarus tricolor Three-colour Parrotfish 2 Leptoscarus vaigiensis Seagrass Parrotfish 2 Parapercis millipunctata Thousand-spot Grubfish 2 Acanthurus leucosternon Powder-blue Surgeonfish 2 Acanthurus nigricauda Eye-line Surgeonfish 2 Acanthurus triostegus Convict Surgeonfish 2 Ctenochaetus striatus Fine-lined Bristletooth 2 Balistapus undulatus Striped Triggerfish 2 Rhinecanthus aculeatus Picasso Triggersih 2 Canthigaster valentini Saddled Pufferfish 2
Transect 3
This transect was deployed at 5m depth, along the reef edge on the north eastern side of the island. This site was assessed as it is the nearest reef, to the proposed brine outfall pipeline.
The dominant benthic substrate was mainly made up of a sandy rocky bottom with dead boulders. Live coral coverage was 12%±3.82SE of the transect line. Dominant coral genera observed was Porites (massive type). This site has the highest reef building coral coverage among the previous two sites.
Figure 4.22: Left and right panel shows benthic substrate with massive Porites and Pocillopora live corals. (T3-5meters depth)
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45
40 34.00 30.50 35
SE 30 ± 25
20 12.00 9.50 15 % Mean cover % cover Mean 7.50 10 4.50
5 1.50 0.50 0 Live Coral Turf Algae Dead Coral Old dead Recently Pavement Rubble Sand (MA) with Algae coral dead coral
Figure 4.23: Benthic substrate composition in Transect 3 - 5meters depth (28th September 2018)
A total of 30 fish species 15 fish families were recorded during the fish census. Highest number of fishes were recorded from families Pomacentridae (6 species). Most members of Pomacentridae (Damselfishes) are Planktivores (Feeds on benthic invertebrates; algae and zooplankton).
Table 4.11 Summary of fish census data along Transect 3-5 meters depth.
Abundance Species Common Name T3 Cephalopholis argus Peacock Rock Cod 2 Aethaloperca rogaa Red-flushed grouper 2 Pseudanthias squamipinnis Orange Basslet 2 Plectorhinchus vittatus Oriental Sweetlips 2 Scolopsis aurata Golden Spinecheek 2 Lutjanus bohar Red Bass (Red Snapper) 2 Parupeneus cyclostomus Yellow-saddle Goatfish 2 Parupeneus macronema Long-barbel Goatfish 2 Kyphosus cinerascens Snubnose Rudderfish 2 Chaetodon madagaskariensis Madagascar Butterflyfish 2 Platax teira Tall-fin Batfish 1 Amphiprion nigripes Maldivian Anemonefish 4 Dascyllus trimaculatus Three-spot Humbug 2 Chromis weberi Weber's Puller 5 Pomacentrus nagasakiensis Scribbled Damsel 2 Pomacentrus philippinus Philipine Damsel 2 Pomacentrus chrysurus White-tail Damsel 2 Halichoeres hortulanus Checkerboard Wrasse 2 Labroides dimidiatus Blue-streak Cleaner Wrasse 2
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Abundance Species Common Name T3 Thalassoma amblycephalum Two-tone Wrasse 4 Thalassoma janseni Jansen's Wrasse 2 Cheilinus trilobatus Triple-tail Maori Wrasse 2 Scarus strongylocephalus Sheephead Parrotfish 2 Scarus sordidus Shabby Parrotfish 2 Zanclus cornutus Moorish Idol 2 Acanthurus leucosternon Powder-blue Surgeonfish 2 Acanthurus nigricauda Eye-line Surgeonfish 2 Ctenochaetus striatus Fine-lined Bristletooth 2 Naso hexacanthus Sleek Unicornfish 2 Siganus stellatus Starry Rabbitfish 2 Balistapus undulatus Striped Triggerfish 2 Melichthys indicus Indian Triggerfish 2 Odonus niger Blue Triggerfish 5
4.1 Visual Snorkelling Survey
Visual snorkelling surveys were carried out at select locations of the lagoon.
Site 1 – Parallel to transect 1
This site is located on the western section of the islands shallow lagoon, parallel to Transect 1. Top reef at this location was predominantly made up of a rocky pavement. The reef edge shows spur and groove formation due to strong wave and current action at this location.
Live coral occurrence along the top reef was very low, main live coral colonies observed along the survey area belonged to families Poritidae (massive type corals), and Pocilloporidae
The most abundance fish species observed belonged to families Scaridae and Labridae on top of the reef.
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Figure 4.24 : Left panel shows the shallow top reef closer to shoreline; right panel shows the spur and grooves.
Figure 4.25: Left and right panel shows an over view of the top reef, with its unique formation of groove and spurs.
Site 2 – Parallel to transect 2
This site is located on the north section of the island, parallel to Transect 2. Similar to Site 1, dominant benthic substrate observed was rocky pavement.
The percentage of live coral was very low with just a few Pocillopora coral. Fish abundance was poor with the most observed fish family includes Acanthuridae (Surgeonfishes), Scaridae (Parrotfishes) and Pomacentridae (Damselfishes) Members Acanthuridae and Scaridae are herbivores (Feeds algae covered rocks) and members of Pomacentridae are planktivores, (mainly feeds on zooplankton in water column).
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Figure 4.26: Left panel shows the benthic substrate pavement, Right panel shows an overview of the shallow top reef.
Site 3– Parallel to transect 3
This site is located on the north eastern side of the island, parallel to Transect 3. The reef flat extends approximately about 40m from the shoreline to the reef edge with very little vertical relief. Depth along this area varied between 0.9m~5m on the top reef.
Dominant benthic substrate is a rocky bottom with rock boulders. Compared to the previous site, overall live coral coverage along this site was good. Key coral families observed as before were Poritidae and Pocilloporidae. Fish life is generally good, with Acanthuridae and Scaridae with being the most dominant species on the reef.
Figure 4.27: Left and right panel shows an overview of the top reef with live massive corals.
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4.2 Marine protected areas and sensitive sites
The nearest environmentally sensitive sites listed in the EPA website is 15.5 km west in Kandoogandu island, a mangrove area on an uninhabited island. Other sensitive sites listed include, Kuramaadhoo (19.4 km NE), Dhathaafaru (17.8 km NE), Fodhdhipparu (21.2 km E), Gemanaa (23.7 km S), Vandhoo (24 km S) and Thaburudhdhufaru (24.6 km SE). These sites are not expected to be affected by the project.
4.3 Breeding or nursery grounds for protected or endangered species
All coral reef areas have the potential to be used as breeding/nurseries for reef fishes. No literature is available to indicate that reef system of Gaaundoodhoo is used as breeding/nursery for fishes, crustaceans, marine mammals, sharks or turtles. Further studies are required to determine the specificity of the sites.
4.4 Natural Hazard Assessment
According to the UNDP Disaster Risk Assessment Report of Maldives in 2006, proposed site is located in an area exposed tsunami, wind storms, storm surges and flooding. The following parameters can be deduced for the Gaaundoodhoo Region based on Disaster Assessment Report and the Detailed Island Risk Assessment Reports (UNDP, 2009).
Tsunami: Maximum probable wave height range 0.8-2.50
Cyclone or storm (wind): Probable maximum wind speed 84.2 knots (category 2 cyclone).
Storm surge: predicted storm surge height – 0.45; predicted storm tide height 1.38.
Rainfall: probable maximum daily rainfall for Hanimaadhoo for a 500-year return period 175.6 mm
Based on these parameters, field surveys and planned design parameters of the island, the methodology for risk assessment identified in the Detailed Island Risk Assessment Reports (UNDP, 2009) and findings from Ali (2005) was used to assess the hazard risks on the site. However, the results should be treated with caution as this is a preliminary risk assessment. A more comprehensive assessment will require a longer timeframe and more data, which is beyond the scope of this study.
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4.5 Raa Atoll socio-economic setup
Raa Atoll consists of 15 inhabited islands distributed over approximately 28 km by 78 km area Population of the Atoll stands at around 14,756 (MPND 2006a). The capital island of Raa atoll is Ungoofaaru. There are 7 islands with a population of more than 1000 people. These are Dhuvaafaru, Alifushi, Ugoofaaru, Maduvvari, Inguraidhoo, Meedhoo and Hulhudhuffaaru. Dhuvaafaru is the most populated island in the atoll with a population above 3000 in 2014.
4.5.1 Population Structure and Migration Characteristics
Population
According to preliminary results of census 2014, the total population residing in Raa atoll was 15,813 people with 7,853 males and 7,960 females. It contributes to 4.36% of the total population of Maldives. Figure 4.28 below presents the population sizes for all administered islands of Raa atoll based on preliminary results of census 2014.
Figure 4.28: Islands by Population Sizes, R. Atoll, Preliminary results of Census 2014
3500 Population by locality, Raa Atoll, Census 2014
3000
2500
2000
1500
1000
500
0
Source: National Bureau of Statistics, 2014
Among all the administered islands in Raa atoll, Dhuvaafaru has the biggest population with a total of 3,018 people contributing 19.29% of the total Raa atoll population. Fainu has the smallest population in the atoll with only 322 people contributing to 2.04% of the atoll population.
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Annual Population Growth Rate
During the last few years, the population of Raa atoll has continued with a positive annual growth. According to preliminary results of census 2014, the average annual growth rate for the atoll is 0.18. Angolhitheemu shows the highest positive annual growth rate in the atoll with 3.62 and Kinolhas shows the second highest annual growth rate with 2.62. Annual population growth rate data for Dhuvaafaru is not available since the island has only been inhabited in 2008 after the tsunami. Ungoofaaru experienced the most negative annual growth rate with -8.91, reflecting the resettlement of Kandholhudhoo residents in Dhuvaafaru. Table 4.15 below represents the average annual growth rate for all administered islands of Raa atoll.
Table 4.12 Average Annual Growth Rate, R. Atoll, Preliminary results of Census 2014
Locality Average Annual Growth Rate North Maalhosmadulu (R) 0.81 Alifushi -2.59 Vaadhoo 1.83 Rasgetheemu 0.48 Agolhitheemu 3.62 Ugoofaaru -8.91 Maakurathu -1.56 Rasmaadhoo 0.07 Innamaadhoo 0.93 Maduvvari -1.17 Iguraidhoo -1.39 Fainu 2.41 Meedhoo -0.91 Kinolhas 2.62 Hulhudhuffaaru -3.90 SOURCE: NATIONAL BUREAU OF STATISTICS 2014
Sex Ratio
According to preliminary results of census 2014, the National Sex Ratio for the country shows that there are more males than females in Maldives with a sex ratio of 103 (103 males per 100 females). However, in Raa atoll, the population of females out numbers that of males with a sex ratio of 91 males per 100 females. This is also the case for the all administered islands in the atoll except for Innamaadhoo which had a sex ratio of 103. The island with the biggest difference in sex ratio is Inguraidhoo with a sex ratio of 83 Males per 100 females. The island with the smallest difference in sex ratio is Rasmaadhoo with 98 males per 100 females. Figure 4.29 below show sex ratios for all administered islands of Raa atoll based on preliminary results of census 2014.
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Figure 4.29: Sex Ratio by Locality, R. Atoll, Preliminary results of census 2014
Sex Ratio by Locality, R. Atoll, Census 2014
Iguraidhoo 83 Rasgetheemu 86 Alifushi 86 Hulhudhuffaaru 86 Vaadhoo 89 Ugoofaaru 89 Dhuvaafaru 91 Agolhitheemu 92 Kinolhas 92 Meedhoo 95 Fainu 96 Maduvvari 97 Rasmaadhoo 98 Innamaadhoo 103 0 20 40 60 80 100 120 Sex Ratio
Source: National bureau of Statistics 2014
Population Structure
Figure 4.30 below shows the population pyramid of Raa atoll population based on census 2006.
Figure 4.30: Population Pyramid for R. Atoll, Census 2006
Female 60-64 Male 50-54
40-44
30-34
20-24
Age (Years) Age Groups 10-14
0-4
Population SOURCE: MINISTRY OF PLANNING AND NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, 2008
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According to the figure, the most dominant age group for the atoll is between 10-14 years for both males and females. The dependent population is at 45.2% comprising 39.5% children and 5.6% elderly. The working age population comprises of more than half of the population with 55%.
Migration
According to census 2006, the registered population of Raa atoll was 18,357 people, however, only 77.5% of this population resides in the atoll. Majority of the Raa atoll registered in the atoll, but did not reside there, were enumerated in Male’ (69%). Figure 4.31 below shows the out- migration of Raa atoll population by place of enumeration.
Figure 4.31: Out-Migration from R. Atoll by place of Enumeration, Census 2006
80% 69% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 11% 11% 10% 4% 2% 1% 1% 1% Population (Number) Population 0% Male' North North Upper Upper Central South South Central North South Central Place of Enumeration source: ministry of planning and national development, 2008
At the time of census 2006, majority of people residing in Raa atoll were registered in the atoll, however 4% of the total population living in Raa atoll were from other areas. The majority of people who have moved to Raa atoll are from North province, which includes Noonu, Raa, Baa and Lhaviyani atoll. Figure 4.32 below represents in-migration to Raa atoll from other parts of the country by place of registration.
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Figure 4.32: In-Migration to R. Atoll by place of Registration, Census 2006
35.0% 28.7% 30.0% 25.0% 20.2% 20.0% 18.2% 15.0% 9.6% 8.7% 10.0% 5.2% 4.9% 4.5% 5.0% Population (Number) Population 0.0% North Male' Upper North South Central South Upper North Central Central South Place of Registration
4.5.2 Education
Currently there are 16 schools in Raa atoll and the highest level of education provided is Higher Secondary education with GCE A’level standard. There is a total of 15 preschools in Raa Atoll. According to the Ministry of Education a total of 4,732 students were enrolled in Raa atoll schools in March 2014 including preschool students. Figure 4.33 shows the number of students enrolled in Raa Atoll Schools in March 2014.
Figure 4.33: Student enrolment in Raa Atoll schools
Student enrollment in Raa Atoll Schools, March 2014
72 Fainu School 75 89 Innamaadhoo School 98 99 Kinolhahu School 101 112 Maakurath School 207 212 In'guraidhoo School 248 306 Maduvvaree School 308 318 R. Atholhu Thauleemee Marukazu 402 410 Dhuvaafaru Primary School 525 0 100 200 300 400 500 600
Five schools in Raa Atoll offers education upto grade 12. These are R.Atoll Thauleemee Marukazu, Alifushi School, Ungofaaru School, Hulhudhuffaaru School and Maduvvari School.
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Literacy Rate
Literacy rate for Raa atoll population is 96.62% and women have a higher literacy rate (97.19%) than that of men (96%). Figure 4.34 below shows the literacy rates for all administered islands in Raa atoll based on census 2006.
Among all administered islands in Raa atoll, literacy rate is highest in Inguraidhoo with 99.37% and lowest in Innamaadhoo with 94.81%. Inguraidhoo also has the highest male and female literacy rates in the atoll (99.05% and 99.66% respectively). Female literacy rate is lowest in Maakurathu with 95.37% and male literacy rate is lowest in Fainu (91.75%). The biggest gender difference in literacy rate is also seen in Fainu with 99.12% of females literate compare to 91.75% of males. Figure 4.35 below shows percentage literate by sex and locality for Raa atoll based on census 2006.
Figure 4.34: Percentage Literate by Locality, R Atoll, Census 2006
100 99.37 99 97.72 97.44 98 97.05 96.74 96.67 96.55 97 96.28 96.14 95.71 96 95.49 95.44 95.25 94.81 Rate (%) Rate 95 94 93 92 Fainu Alifushi Kinolhas Vaadhoo Meedhoo Ugoofaaru Maduvvari Iguraidhoo Agolhithee… Hulhudhuff… Maakurathu Rasmaadhoo Rasgetheemu Innamaadhoo
SOURCE: MINISTRY OF PLANNING AND NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, 2008
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Figure 4.35: Percentage literate by Sex and Locality, R Atoll, Census 2006
99.66 100 99.12 99.12
97.68 97.78 Male 97.07 97.08 97.33 97.03 98 96.71 96.22 Female 95.71 96 95.37 95.45 94
99.05 97.77 92 97.02 96.77 96.35 95.93 95.83 95.63 95.59 95.54 95.42
Literacy rate (%) rate Literacy 90 93.70 92.48 91.75 88 86 Fainu Alifushi Kinolhas Vaadhoo Meedhoo Ugoofaaru Maduvvari Iguraidhoo Maakurathu Rasmaadhoo Rasgetheemu Innamaadhoo Agolhitheemu Hulhudhuffaaru
SOURCE: MINISTRY OF PLANNING AND NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, 2008
Education Attainment Levels
In education attainment, majority of people over the age of 6 years have received primary level education (57%). However, there is a huge drop in the percentage of people attaining secondary level education as only 19% reported to have attended secondary education and completed GCE O’level. A further 4% reported to have completed certificate or sanadhu level qualification. There is also a huge drop in the percent of people attaining higher secondary education and beyond as only 0.6% reported to have received higher secondary education and above qualifications.
Additionally, 16% of people over the age of 6 years reported to have achieved literacy level education and 2% reported to have received pre-school education. Figure 4.36 below shows education attainment rates for Raa atoll based on census 2006.
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Figure 4.36 Education Attainment Rates for R. Atoll, Census 2006
0.3% 0.3% 2% 2% Primary 4% Literate
Secondary and O'level 19% Certificate / sanadhu
Pre-School
57% Diploma and Above
16% Higher Secondary ans A'level Not stated
Source: ministry of planning and national development, 2008
4.5.3 Employment and Economic Industries
Labor Force Participation
According to census 2006, labor force participation rate for Raa atoll population over the age of 15 years is 64.8% and labor force participation is higher among male population (73.3%) compare to that of female population (57.4%). Figure 4.37 below shows labor force participation rates for all administered islands of Raa atoll based on census 2006.
Among all administered islands of Raa atoll, labor force participation rate is highest in Fainu with 85.3% of population over the age of 15 years engaged in the work force. Fainu also have the highest percentage of females employed with 86% of females over the age of 15 years active in the work force. Male labor force participation is highest in Innamaadhoo with 86% of males over the age of 15 years employed. Labor force participation is lowest in Hulhudhuffaaru with 55.8%. Hulhudhuffaaru also have the lowest labor force participation by both male (65%) and female population (49%). Female labor force participation for Meedhoo population is also at 49%. The island with the biggest gender difference in the labor force participation is Innamaadhoo with 86% of males and only 54% of females engaged in work force. Figure 4.38 below shows labor force participation rates by sex and locality for Raa atoll based on census 2006.
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Figure 4.37: Labour Force Participation Rate by Locality, R. Atoll Census 2006
85.3 90 81.5 76.7 80 75.0 71.5 70.0 69.4 68.7 70 65.3 63.1 62.7 59.1 57.6 60 55.8 50 40 30 20 10 0 Labor Force Participation Rate (%) (%) Rate Force Participation Labor Fainu Alifushi Agolhith… Kinolhas Hulhudh… Innamaa… Maakura… Vaadhoo Rasmaad… Rasgethe… Meedhoo Ugoofaaru Maduvvari Locality Iguraidhoo SOURCE: MINISTRY OF PLANNING AND NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, 2008
Figure 4.38: Labor force Participation by Locality and Sex, R. Atoll, Census 2006
100 90 Male
80 86 84 Female 82 80 79 76 70 76 74 73 68 68 68 60 66 65 50 86
Rate (%) Rate 81 40 74 76 65 68 64 30 54 58 59 53 49 53 49 20 10 0
Locality Source: Ministry of Planning and National Development, 2008
Unemployment Rate
Unemployment rate for the population of Maldives over the age of 15 years is 16.2%, and unemployment rate for Raa atoll is a little higher at 17.4%. Much of the unemployment is among female population as 27.5% of females unemployed compare to only 8.3% of males. Figure 4.39 below shows unemployment rates by locality for all administered islands of Raa atoll based on census 2006.
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Figure 4.39 Unemployment Rate by Locality, Census 2006
35 32.4 30 27.2 25 23.2 20.7 20.1 19.5 20 15 13.3 13.1 11.2 10.4 9.2 8.8 8.8 10 4.0
Unemployment Rate Rate Unemployment (%) 5 0 Fainu o u oo mu Alifushi aaru Kinolhas Vaadhoo Meedhoo Ugoofaaru Maduvvari Iguraidhoo Agolhithee Innamaadh Hulhudhuff Rasmaadho Maakurathu Locality Rasgetheem SOURCE: MINISTRY OF PLANNING AND NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, 2008
Among all administered islands of Raa atoll, unemployment rate is highest in Agolhitheemu with 32% and lowest in Rasmaadhoo with 4%. Rasmaadhoo also have the lowest female unemployment rate with 6% while Inguraidhoo has the highest female unemployment rate (46%). Among male populations, unemployment is highest in Agolhitheemu with 21% and lowest in Innamaadhoo with 1%. Figure 4.40 below shows unemployment rates by gender and locality for Raa atoll based on census 2006.
Figure 4.40: Unemployment Rates by Locality and Sex, R. Atoll, Census 2006
50 46 Male 45 Females 39 38 40 36 35 32 30 26 25 23 22
Rate (%) Rate 20 13 12 15 11 10 21 7 10 17 6 13 10 10 11 5 9 8 9 5 1 5 10 2 0 Fainu Alifushi Kinolhas Vaadhoo Meedhoo Ugoofaaru Maduvvari Iguraidhoo Maakurathu Rasmaadhoo Rasgetheemu Innamaadhoo Agolhitheemu Hulhudhuffaaru Locality Source: Ministry of Planning and National Development, 2008
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Employment by Industry
The three most common economic sectors in Raa atoll include manufacturing (38%), Public administration and defense (20%) and fishing (17%). Other economic activities practiced in Raa atoll include construction (6%), wholesale and retail trade (6%), hotels and restaurants (4%), other community, social and personal services (3%) and transport, storage and communication (3%). Figure 4.41 below shows the main employment sectors in Raa atoll based on census 2006.
Figure 4.41: Employment by Industry, R. Atoll. Census 2006
Manufacturing 3% 3% 3% 4% Public administration and defense (Civil Service inc Education and Health) 6% Fishing 38% 6% Construction
Whole sale and retail trade
Hotels and restaurants 17% Other community, social and personal services activities Transport, storage and communication 20% Others
SOURCE: MINISTRY OF PLANNING AND NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, 2008
4.5.4 Health Services
According to census 2006, there are a total of 17 health facilities in Raa atoll including 1 regional hospital, 6 health centers, 1 health posts and 9 pharmacies. A total of 58 health professionals were employed in these health facilities in 2006.
Table 4.13 below shows the number of available health facilities with the distribution of doctors and nurses in each health service center in Raa atoll based on census 2006.
Table 4.13: Medical facilities and distribution of doctors and nurses, Raa atoll, 2006
MEDICAL NUMBER STAFF DOCTORS NURSES FACILITIES AVAILABLE NURSES Regional Hospitals 1 8 16 11 Atoll Hospitals 0 0 0 0 Health Centers 6 5 9 8 Health posts 1 1 - - Pharmacies 9 - - - Source: Ministry of Planning and National Development, 2008
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5 IMPACTS IDENTIFICATION
5.1 Introduction
Potential adverse and beneficial impacts of construction and operation stage of the agricultural island development project are identified and evaluated in this section. Baseline environmental conditions determined above are used to assess potential environmental, and social impacts arising from the project. Significant impacts are identified and evaluated in two stages. The first stage identifies the environmental and socio-economic components that may be impacted from key project activities. The second stage determines the significance of impacts of each component. The following sections provide details of the evaluation of impacts.
5.2 Boundaries of Affected Areas
The estimated boundaries of affected areas are summarised in Figure 5.1 below. These boundaries are based on physical conditions and work methods proposed in the project without any mitigation measures. The extents shown are not absolute and should be treated as the best- guess scenario based on experience from past projects.
5.3 Impact Identification and Evaluation
Environmental and socio-economic aspects that may be impacted by the project are identified in the impact matrices in Table 5.1 to 5.3. Assessments of the impacts are conducted based on the following criteria.
1. Magnitude: Refers to the quantum of change that will be experienced as a consequence of the impact. It is defined by the severity of each potential impact based on impact reversibility, irreversibility and potential rate of recovery. Impacts of high magnitude are those that cannot be mitigated substantially or involve substantial residual impacts.
2. Nature: Where the activity or component has direct, indirect or cumulative impacts from multiple projects or activities.
3. Duration: Refers to the temporal scale (i.e. duration, frequency) of the impact. It does not take into account the duration of the impact’s effects.
4. Distribution: Refers to the spatial scale of the area impacted. An impact can be site specific or limited to the project area; locally occurring within the immediate vicinity of the project locality; atoll level; or at a national level. The four criteria are detailed using the following scale and attributes given in table 5.2.
5. Significance: Refers to the importance of the impact’s consequence or implications (ecological social, economic). An impact of small magnitude could have a very high
Prepared by: CDE Consulting Page|111 EIA for the Proposed Agricultural Development Project in Gaaundoodhoo Island, Raa Atoll significance and vice-versa (e.g. siltation of a small reef area with rare coral species has low magnitude but very high significance). Once an impact has been identified it needs to be evaluated using set of criteria. The key criterion considered in this study are:
a. The degree of reversibility of an impact (i.e. duration of its effects) is considered part of its significance.
b. Threats to sensitive eco-systems. For example, those leading to loss of key habitats and extinction of species, or those affecting Protected Areas.
c. Threats to key resources leading to depletion of resources or loss of livelihood associated with those resources.
d. Geographic extent of impact. For example, national or trans-boundary impacts
e. Duration and timing of the impact
f. Likelihood or probability of the impact occurrence
g. Reversibility
h. Resource use conflicts
i. Public views and complaints
j. Cumulative impacts on an area due to multiple projects
k. Uncertainty in impact predictions
l. Cost of mitigation
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Table 5.1: Impact Identification Matrix for the project
Activity / Potential Impact Direction Nature Duration Distribution Magnitude Significance Pos Neg Dir In Dir Cumu Long Short Site Local Nat High Mod Low High Mod Low 1. Mobilization and site preparation
Physical Impacts
Visual aesthetics X X X X X X Air Quality X X X X X X X
Noise levels X X X X X X X
Marine water turbidity X X X X X X X Marine water pollution X X X X X X X Sedimentation X X X X X X X
Impacts on Biodiversity Impacts on coral and sea grass communities Direct physical damage (vessel anchoring site, excavator X X X X X X movement zones) Indirect (smothering from X X X X X X sedimentation, turbidity) Fish, rays and invertebrate X X X X X X displacement Impact of avian fauna (noise levels X X X X X X and worker actions) Impacts on terrestrial biodiversity Direct physical damage to flora X X X X X X and fauna 2. Vegetation clearance, disposal
and backfilling Physical Impacts Visual aesthetics X X X X X X
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Activity / Potential Impact Direction Nature Duration Distribution Magnitude Significance Pos Neg Dir In Dir Cumu Long Short Site Local Nat High Mod Low High Mod Low Air Quality X X X X X X Noise levels X X X X X X Ground water quality X X X X X X X X Impacts on Biodiversity Impacts on terrestrial flora and fauna Direct removal of vegetation and X X X X X X faunal habitats Indirect X X X X X X Faunal displacement X X X X X X 3. Agricultural Operations Physical Impacts Visual aesthetics X X X X X X Air Quality X X X X X X Noise levels X X X X X X Marine water pollution X X X X X X Impacts on Biodiversity Impacts on coral communities X X X X X X X Impacts on terrestrial flora and fauna X X X X X X Waste management X X X X X X Waste water management X X X X X X Worker safety X X X X X X X 4. Maricultural Operations Physical Impacts Visual aesthetics X X X X X X Air Quality X X X X X X Noise levels X X X X X X
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Activity / Potential Impact Direction Nature Duration Distribution Magnitude Significance Pos Neg Dir In Dir Cumu Long Short Site Local Nat High Mod Low High Mod Low Marine water pollution X X X X X X Impacts on Biodiversity Impacts on coral communities X X X X X X X Waste management X X X X X X Waste water management X X X X X X Worker safety X X X X X X X 5. Socio-economic impacts Employment X X X X X X X Local business opportunities X X X X X X X X Demand on resources and services (e.g. Vaandhoo, workers X X X X X X X X accommodation)
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6 SIGNIFICANT IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES
6.1 Environmental Aspects with Significant Impacts
6.1.1 Natural Environment
6.1.1.1 Land
Soil contamination can result from accidental spillage of substances used for construction, such as fuel, oil, paints, etc., as well as mismanagement of solid waste. Soil contamination is typically limited to shallow soils within the immediate area surrounding the spill. However, deeper layers of soil are exposed to contaminants by excavation for construction purposes. Proper storage and careful management of possible contaminants can reduce the risk of soil contamination.
Agricultural activities can also lead to land degradation, though erosion, contamination and irrigation issues. Erosion can result from land clearing and cultivation in land with thin soils, which have very low tolerance levels for erosion, without using cover crops or other soil conservation measures. Since top soil is the first to erode, and also contains most of the organic matter and nutrients, this leads to the degradation of the nutrient value. Erosion also changes the soil structure, diminishing its water holding capacity and increasing its capacity to become compacted. Erosion also has consequences for marine water quality, where the eroded soils will be deposited.
Decreased nutrient value of agricultural soils increases the need for artificial fertilisers and pesticides to maintain crop yields. This can reduce the quality of agricultural soils, making it less suitable for agricultural purposes in the future. As a result, increasingly larger inputs of fertilisers and pesticides may become necessary to maintain crop yields, thereby increasing the financial cost of production. Experiences from other agricultural islands show that after continuous use for approximately 5 year the productivity of the soil declines and chemical fertilizers are needed to compensate for a decline in soil fertility. Sustainable agricultural practices such as conservation tillage, crop rotations, use of cover crops, mulching and composting, etc. can mitigate land degradation issues cost-effectively.
Irrigation can also result in salinization of the soil, as salts dissolve in the irrigation water mixes with the groundwater and travels up the soil layer through capillary action, where the water is evaporated, leaving behind the salt. This is particularly problematic in poorly drained soils with shallow water tables, in arid areas. Hence, this is not expected to occur in Gaaundoodhoo, as minimal agricultural activities are being carried out. Drip irrigation will also be used to avoid over-irrigation excessive leaching of salts and nutrients.
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6.1.1.2 Air Quality and Noise
Equipment and machinery used in the construction stage can emit small amounts of harmful gases such as oxides of nitrogen, carbon monoxide, sulphur dioxide; and particulate matter. Construction activities can also mobilise dust and particulate matter at the construction sites. Emissions can also include small quantities of trace metals and volatile organic compounds. Agricultural activities are also responsible for a significant share of global greenhouse gas emissions. However, the emissions resulting from this project is expected to be negligible, given its small scale and low intensity.
Construction activities are also expected to produce noise, which might cause disturbances in the vicinity of the project site. Since Gaaundoodhoo is an uninhabited island, no residential areas will be affected. Nevertheless, construction activities will only be conducted during the daytime, to minimise any potential disturbance to fauna. Construction activities will be completed as soon as possible, so the impacts are expected to be short term and reversible.
6.1.1.3 Groundwater
Groundwater resources of the island can be potentially impacted during the construction and operational activities of the proposed project, due to depletion, salinization and contamination of the groundwater resource.
Groundwater depletion during the construction stage can arise from use of groundwater for construction activities and by the construction workers. This is not expected to occur in this project, as a desalination plant will be used to provide for all construction and staff requirements. No dewatering will be carried out for construction.
Water will also be needed for agricultural activities (specifically irrigation) and staff municipal purposes during the operational stage. Globally, agriculture is the single largest user of freshwater resources. However, groundwater depletion due to irrigation is not expected from this project, as the open field will be irrigated using a mix of rain and desalinated water.
On the other hand, groundwater will be used for flush tanks. However, the amount of water extracted for flushing annually is not expected to be greater than the input from rainfall. The desalination plant that will be put in place for staff usage and in cases where there are shortages of rainwater supply, for agricultural uses, will further alleviate the stress on the groundwater of the island. Hence, groundwater depletion is not expected due to this project.
Extraction of groundwater at sufficiently high rates increases the likelihood of ‘up-coning’ of the underlying salt water, allowing salt water to be drawn up at the extraction point. Given the low intensity of groundwater withdrawal, salinization due to ‘up-coning’ is not very likely.
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Groundwater can be contaminated from a variety of different sources. During the construction stage, accidental spillage of oil, paint and other chemicals can contaminate the groundwater resource. Similarly, mismanagement of solid waste can also result in groundwater contamination. Excavation for constructing the foundations for major infrastructure increases the exposure of groundwater to such contaminants. Groundwater pollution can also result from poorly-designed septic systems. This will lead to formation and accumulation of hazardous gases such as hydrogen sulphide in the groundwater aquifer, posing risks to human health in the medium-long term.
Agricultural activities generally involve significant risks to water resources, including groundwater. Agrochemicals, such as fertilisers and pesticides can leach into and contaminate the groundwater, especially given the highly porous nature of coralline soils found on the island. Irrigation can exacerbate the problem and enrich groundwater with salts and nutrients, especially nitrates. Hence, both fertiliser and pesticide application, and irrigation must be properly managed to avoid excessive practices. Drip irrigation will be used in this project, thereby reducing the risk of over-irrigation and leaching of agrochemicals into the groundwater aquifer. Excessive use of artificial fertilisers and pesticides will also be avoided through proper monitoring and management.
All maricultural activities will be carried out in carefully designed tanks and the entire system including the pipes will undergo regular inspections and maintenance work. This is to ensure that none of the sea water used in the hatchery or the grow-out pens is spilled to contaminate the groundwater of the island.
6.1.1.4 Marine Water
Operational stage activities that can potentially lead to degradation of the marine water quality include improper disposal of solid waste into the marine environment (including waste generated on land and littering from boats), inadequate mixing and dilution of brine from the desalination plant or wastewater from the hatchery. The wastewater effluent from the hatchery is likely to be high in nitrates given that fish food will be regularly added to the water as feed as well and fish waste before the water is being discharged. It is proposed to combine the wastewater outfall and brine outfall to further increase the dilution of both prior to being discharged off the reef.
The locations of the hatchery wastewater effluent and brine outfalls are also proposed with consideration of the wave and current conditions in the area, in order to ensure good mixing and thorough dilution.
Agricultural activities are also a significant source of water pollution, particularly due to runoff of agrochemicals. Influx of pesticides and fertilisers can lead to increase in the concentration of
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nutrients such as nitrates and phosphates, as well as other potentially toxic substances like heavy metals and volatile organic compounds. Furthermore, soil erosion due to agricultural activities increases not only the nutrient load, but also the sediment load, leading to increased sedimentation of the water column.
6.1.1.5 Marine Biodiversity
Construction stage of the project is expected to have direct and indirect adverse impacts on the flora and fauna of the marine environment. The benthic organisms and biological structures in the footprint of the area where the coastal structures (jetty and pipe layout) are to be constructed will be completely removed.
Degradation of the water quality due to spillage of substance used in construction and construction waste, and sedimentation due to disturbance of bottom sediments and generation of sediment plumes would degrade the habitat of marine organisms. In particular, significant increases in the level of suspended and bedded sediment within the water column for a prolonged period will alter the habitat and adversely affect the living organisms at the site.
Degradation of the marine environment due to solid waste, wastewater and brine discharge can affect the marine biodiversity in the area as well. However, as discussed above, these impacts are moderate to low, given the low volume and measures taken to mitigate the risk of such impacts.
The marine environment could also be contaminated by runoff containing fertilizers and pesticides. Fertilizer run-off can lead to nutrient enrichment of the receiving waters, thereby affecting the community composition of the marine environment. Persistent nutrient enrichment can also result in eutrophication of the marine environment. Pesticides can potentially toxic substances, which will reduce the health of organisms in the receiving water. Since different organisms respond differently to different chemicals, the community composition of the ecosystem may be altered, as more tolerant organisms dominate.
6.1.1.6 Terrestrial Biodiversity
Influx of workers to the island would inevitably have negative impacts on the terrestrial environment. Lack of awareness or concern to preserve the environment may lead to deliberate or inadvertent damages to the trees in order to speed up their work. Disposal of hazardous waste and sewage may be a concern if not appropriately dealt with.
Removal of vegetation is expected to be the main impact for the terrestrial environment during construction. The required clearing for key infrastructures and access roads are expected to be moderate-to-high given that most of the island is heavily vegetated with very few open areas. Removal of vegetation for construction may represent a significant loss of terrestrial floral
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biodiversity, in addition to other significant consequences for the terrestrial ecosystem. The clearing of vegetation will generally lead to temporary soil erosion during heavy rainfall, loss of habitats for faunal life and replacement of the natural vegetation system. However, with the redesign of the island, a large area of the island (50%~) of the island will now remain untouched.
It is often found that alien species are imported to replace the trees and shrubs cut down in the construction. The introduction of exotic species not only reduces the ability of the island to recover to its natural state but also exotic species may dominate local ones directly or through introduction of pests. Sometimes chemicals are used to clear and control vegetation, and these contaminants may also reach the marine environment and groundwater affecting biological life.
Contamination of the soil and groundwater can also affect the terrestrial flora and fauna, and exclude certain species or limit their growth at affected sites. This can reduce biodiversity and change community composition in the affected area. The vegetation removal will also create a large amount of green waste which would need to be disposed. Indiscriminate temporary stockpiling of construction material/ waste can damage plants near the project site, and degrade faunal habitats as well. Noise and vibrations caused by construction activities also result in habitat degradation.
Faunal species are expected to relocate from the vicinity of the project site. As there are no unique/threatened terrestrial species residing on the island, the faunal abundance is low, and similar habitats are available nearby, the loss of terrestrial biodiversity is not considered to be of major significance.
6.1.1.7 Landscape/ Scenery
Removal of a considerable extent of vegetation involves substantial changes to the landscape, which can affect the visual amenity value of the island. However, these changes to the landscape will mostly be within the island, shielded from view by the coastal vegetation belt. Hence, the loss of visual amenity due to the project is not expected to be significant.
6.1.1.8 Coastal Processes
There is no major coastal structure (except for the access jetty) or dredging proposed on this island and hence, the coastal impacts are expected to be minimal.
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Figure 6.1: Estimated vegetation cover affected area
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6.1.2 Socio-economic Environment
6.1.2.1 Food Market
Cultivation of agricultural produce in Raa Atoll would make local produce available, both for the local population and for tourist resorts in the area. This would reduce the need to import certain fruits and vegetables, and mitigate the negative implications of long-distance transport of food items. For instance, food security would be enhanced and the availability of fresh produce would be ensured. The reduction in transportation distance would also cut down the cost of transportation and thereby the total cost of supplying these fruits and vegetables, which would allow the produce to be made available to local consumers at lower prices. This project is unlikely to yield enough produce to support the atoll or even a single island, as the major component of the project focuses primarily on mariculture for the export market.
6.1.2.2 Other Economic Sectors
The introduction of a mariculture project in the region can have a wide-ranging socio-economic benefit within the atoll across multiple sectors. Given that a large-scale hatchery is going to be established, it is likely that multiple individuals will wish to establish grow-out pens both within the atoll and across the nation. Easier access to fingerlings makes this kind of small-scale mariculture projects more feasible for the locals.
6.1.2.3 Local Economy and Impact Equity
While the project is expected to have mainly positive economic impacts for the region, the social consequences of the anticipated economic opportunities depend to a large extent on the equity of impact distribution. If all the economic benefits of the project accrue to a few individuals or a few islands, there is the potential for social disharmony within the wider region. Hence, steps to ensure that equitable recruitment practices, both for employment and for training, are adopted, in order to minimise negative social implications of economic progress.
6.1.2.1 Local Livelihoods
The major negative socio-economic impact of the project will be the potential loss of income earning opportunities to the locals of Hulhudhuffaaru who regularly utilise the island for harvesting coconuts and dried palm leaves. More than 200 households from Hulhudhuffaaru are directly or indirectly involved in the work of making thatch leaves. Most of the dried palm leaves for this activity is taken from the island of Gaaundoodhoo which is currently under the caretaking of the island council. It is likely that the project will have a negative impact on the locals, at least during the initial phase of the project when certain areas of the island are closed off for construction activities.
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This impact will also be felt during the operational phase as the total area available for harvesting will be reduced with the new developments in place.
6.1.2.2 Generation of employment opportunities and local capacity building
The major positive socio-economic impact of the project will be the generation of employment opportunities. The construction phase will create demand for construction workers and contractors, as well as suppliers of construction material, equipment and machinery. More than a few dozen new jobs will be created in the construction phase. It is not clear if the openings will be for locals.
The operational phase may also create 10-20 new jobs. Approximately 80% of these jobs are expected to be reserved for Maldivians with the necessary experience. Furthermore, capacity- building and training programmes for locals will also be carried out as part of a Human Resource Development initiative.
Additionally, the hatchery may cause a boom in small-scale grouper farms across the islands generating further income earning opportunities to locals.
6.1.2.3 Labour and Working Conditions
The project relies heavily on workers for the construction and operation of the project. It will be the responsibility of the Project Proponent to ensure the provision of safe working conditions, social safety nets, forced labour restrictions, and training of workers during construction and operation of the project.
Potential impacts to workers include:
6.1.2.3.1 Forced Labour
• Physical, psychological, and social impacts of forced labour (forms of involuntary or compulsory labour, such as indentured labour, bonded labour) in case of employment of migrant workers and informal local workers
6.1.2.3.2 Child Labour
• Risks of including children and adolescents (under the age of 18) in the family work team, particularly where childcare is unavailable or unaffordable
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6.1.2.3.3 Discrimination and Unequal Opportunity
• Risk of discrimination, threats, harassment or abuse in case of employment of migrant workers • Risk of disciplinary abuse and harassment if there is no established procedure for workers to express their complaints (grievance mechanism)
6.1.2.3.4 Occupational Health & Safety
• Risk of worker injuries and chronic conditions as those associated with earthmoving, use of large equipment, transportation of overweight and oversized materials, and construction and installation of facilities • Risk of injury from vehicular accidents such as tractors, harvesters or other vehicles used in agriculture • Risk of injuries such as burns, respiratory illness or poisoning from exposure to pesticides and herbicides • Risk of musculoskeletal injuries from workers using repetitive motions in awkward positions in agricultural operations and crop production • Risk of contracting infectious diseases through exposure to livestock and animal-borne diseases • Risk of heat and sun-induced health conditions arising from working long hours in areas with exposure to sunlight and/or excessive heat • Risk of respiratory hazards and noise induced hearing impact from dust emissions and high noise levels due to certain activities • Risk of fall injuries and injuries from falling objects from working at heights or in trenches • Risk of electrical shock and burns from contact with live parts during electrical works • Risk of injuries related to unexpected explosions and fires • Risk of ill-health if amenities and accommodation are unhygienic and crowded
Impact significance
Forced labour and health and safety risks arising from construction work is high. Thus, it is important to take measures to prevent and mitigate these risks as some of these can be devastating impacts on lives of individual workers. Forced and child labour restrictions, safe working conditions and training of workers has to be put into mitigation measures and in the management and monitoring plan to minimize and reduce the significant impact.
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6.1.2.4 Local Culture
Influx of large numbers of expatriate workers for construction projects can lead to conflicts between the local population and the workers. Such problems are not expected to arise in this project as the volumes of workers are expected to be small.
6.2 Mitigation Measures for Adverse Impacts
The suggested mitigation measures and anticipated costs for mitigation of the potential significantly adverse environmental impacts are presented in Table 6.1 below.
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Table 6.1: Suggested mitigation measures for potential adverse impacts
Environmental Aspect Mitigation Measures Mitigation Cost Responsible Party Coast • Continuous monitoring to identify abnormal erosion activity • US$ 300 per survey Proponent • Complete channel dredging works as soon as possible Noise and Air • Properly tune and maintain all vehicles and machinery • N/A Proponent • Keep ground/ soil damp to minimize dust/ topsoil erosion by wind • N/A • Conduct construction activities during daytime to minimize nuisance to humans • Included in contract and fauna value • Insulate power generator and desalination plant house with appropriate material • USD 5,000. • Monitor all occupational areas to ensure noise levels do not exceed WHO • N/A standards Landscape • Avoid removal of coastal vegetation belt; • N/A Contractor • Where practical, replant trees removed during land clearing • Included in project cost Groundwater • Give clear instructions regarding handling of chemicals and solid waste during N/A Contractor construction (see Section 8); Proponent • Close supervision during construction; • Avoid use of groundwater for irrigation; • Manage use of fertilisers and pesticides to avoid excessive use; • Properly construct and maintain septic tanks • Properly construct and maintain grouper tanks and the hatchery to avoid salt water spillage on the ground Soil • Give clear instructions regarding handling of chemicals and solid waste during • N/A Contractor
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Environmental Aspect Mitigation Measures Mitigation Cost Responsible Party construction (see Section 8); Proponent • Close supervision during construction; • N/A • Use crop rotations to avoid depletion of nutrients from the soil in agricultural fields; • Included in project • Use cover crops to avoid soil erosion in agricultural fields • Ensure proper maintenance of grouper tanks and the hatchery to avoid salt water spillage on the ground Marine water • Complete works in shortest time period possible • Included in contract Contractor • Carry out work in low tide hours and in calm condition value • Give clear instruction regarding procedures for handling of chemicals and solid waste during construction (see Section 8); • Avoid excessive use of agrochemicals; • Dispose of hatchery wastewater in suitable location to allow dilution Marine biodiversity • Continuous monitoring to identify population and community level changes in • US$ 500 per survey Proponent/ biodiversity Environmental • Excavator movement should stick to predefined routes for travel along the reef. consultant • Supervise all construction activities to ensure that large vehicles do not move outside the project boundary, and ensure the reef flat levelling is restricted to the required area only. Terrestrial biodiversity • During construction, where possible, relocate structures falling within densely • Included in contract Contractor vegetated areas/ areas with large trees value • Replace every large tree removed with 2 trees; • May incur up to • All trees that could be replanted should be replanted US$10000 for tree
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Environmental Aspect Mitigation Measures Mitigation Cost Responsible Party • Give clear instruction regarding stockpiling construction materials, waste relocation. disposal and care for biodiversity; • US$1000 for signage • Close supervision of construction activities • Clear green waste to prevent pest infestations • Monitor pest sightings and take action to control infestations • Carefully monitor incoming shipments and vegetation for pests • Use native species for landscaping as far as possible • Clearly mark vegetation to be retained and communicate to workers Impact equity • Adopt fair and equitable recruitment practices for jobs and training opportunities • N/A Proponent
Health and safety • The contractor would ensure that Health and Safety procedures are complied • Included in contract Proponent/ with at all times. value contractor • Construction activities would be carried out under the supervision of a suitably experienced person. • All reasonable precautions will be taken for the safety of employees, and equipment will be operated by competent persons. • Health checks will be administered before work commences • Warning signs, barricades or warning devices will be provided and used. • Necessary safety gear will be worn at all times. • Fire extinguishing equipment would be readily available and employees will be trained in its use. • Oxygen, acetylene or LPG bottles will not be left free-standing.
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Environmental Aspect Mitigation Measures Mitigation Cost Responsible Party • First aid kits will be made available on site • The construction site will be properly closed to unauthorised personnel Social cohesion • Employ local residents as far as possible • N/A Proponent • Provide proper orientation to all workers regarding local values and customs • Inform and consult all stakeholders at all stages of the project Local livelihoods • The proponent and the locals have an understanding that the proponent will • N/A Proponent allow the continued use of the island for the locals of Hulhudhuffaaru for the harvesting of certain forest products. This has already been shown by the proponent in regard the revised design of the island which reduced the overall footprint of the project to preserve more than 50% of the island’s forested area. The proponent will be meeting with the locals after getting the approval of the EIA and upon acquiring the permanent lease agreement for the island to discuss the details of how the locals can utilise the island in a sustainable and mutually beneficial manner.
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7 ALTERNATIVES
7.1 “No-project” Alternative
The option of a no project alternative has been considered for the project. The advantages and disadvantages of the No Project option are presented in Table 7.1.
Table 7.1: Summary of “No Project” Alternative
Options Advantages Disadvantages No fisheries • Adverse environmental impacts • Unsustainable grouper harvesting and associated with the project are practices in the Maldives remain agricultural avoided unchanged development • No job opportunities for locals • No training opportunities for locals
The adverse environmental impacts resulting from the project are expected to be adequately mitigated, if the measures suggested in this document are implemented properly. On the other hand, the socioeconomic advantages associated with the project are considerable, and not proceeding with the project will have high opportunity costs. Therefore, the ‘No Project’ alternative is not preferred.
7.2 Alternative Design
Based on local consultations and consultations with other stakeholder such as the Marine Research Centre, several changes were brought to the overall design of the project. Under the new design the following specific changes were brought;
• Overall layout compacted to place most developments on the northern half of the island leaving most of the central and south-central parts untouched. Based on field observations and local consultations these parts have a very low elevation and is highly used by the locals for harvesting of forest products. The proponent has plans to work with the locals to allow the continuity of their harvesting practices and avoid any developments in this area. • Old Cemetery area preserved – the old cemetery of former Gaaundoodhoo residents will be preserved in the new design.
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• Service jetty removed – according to locals the proposed area is very rough through out the year. It is recommended for the proponent to use a single access jetty for the time being, and identify a potential location for an additional jetty (if required) at a later stage after submitting and EIA Addendum • Waste management centre relocated – As advised by EPA the WMC has now been moved further away from other developments such as the RO and power plants. • Overall area reduced – Agricultural zones have now been reduced and expansion zones identified has also been reduced.
The revised concept plan has been developed as part of an ongoing consultative process, taking into account the views and opinions of all key stakeholders. As such, the preferred option is the revised site plan.
7.3 Alternative Irrigation Techniques
The following irrigation techniques have been compared and analysed:
• Flood (furrow) irrigation • Drip method • Spray Method
Table 7.2: Evaluation of irrigation techniques
Advantages Disadvantages Flood • Simple and Cheap • Large amount of water lost to (furrow) • Easy setup evaporation and transpiration irrigation • Volume of water supplied cannot be controlled • Land has to be levelled as gravity is used to disperse water Drip irrigation • Wastage of water is significantly low • Extensive pipe network and pump is • Automated system needed • Can be used on any kind of land • Energy consumption is high Spray method • Amount of water sprayed is • Labour intensive controlled • Water is wasted to evaporation • Less equipment and pumps required
• Can be used on uneven land
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The preferred option is to use drip irrigation, as it will minimise the amount of water required, and offer better control over water usage using less manual labour. While more energy will be required to control irrigation, the amount of energy needed for water desalination will be less, as the amount of desalinated water required will be less. Hence, drip irrigation involves the least cost, both financially and environmentally.
7.4 Alternative Water Intake Locations
The proposed location for the water intake for the RO plant is via a borehole on the island. The alternative is to lay a connecting pipeline to the hatchery water intake line.
Both these options are suitable. The proponent needs to take a decision after the detailed MEP designs. For the purposes of this EIA, the suggested option is using borehole.
7.5 Alternative Sediment Control Measures
Table 7.3 presents an evaluation of the alternative methods for sediment containment.
Table 7.3: Summary of Sediment Control Measures
Measures Advantages Disadvantages Bund walls (preferred Environmentally friendly High impact on marine option) Durable environment Cost effective Silt screen Durable Large quantities not locally East to handle available Environmentally friendly Costly
Given the size of the project size, bund walls are the preferred option, as it is easily available locally and cost-effectively, and provide adequate containment of sediments.
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8 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN
The Environmental Management Plan (EMP) is an important component of the EIA process, needed to determine the accuracy of impact prediction, the adequacy of mitigation measures, and level of compliance with commitments regarding implementation of mitigation measures and monitoring of relevant environmental aspects.
The main objectives of the environmental management plan are to:
− Produce a framework for managing anticipated impacts, including practicable and achievable performance requirements and systems for monitoring, reporting and implementing corrective actions. − Provide evidence of compliance to legislation, policies, guidelines and requirements of relevant authorities.
8.1 Environmental management system
The environmental management framework for the proposed project is based on the standards and policies set out by the Environmental Protection Agency of the Maldives.
- Environmental Management Planning and establishment of key performance indicators: The EMP specifies environmental management measures and required performance standards - Monitoring and corrective action: The implementation of EMP measures will be monitored. Any inconsistencies between the EMP and its on-site implementation will be identified and addressed through corrective actions - Auditing, reviews and improvement: The EMP will be reviewed. Improvements to the EMP will be made as necessary to achieve desired environmental outcomes.
The environmental management strategy is demonstrated in the following figure.
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Commitment to environmental regulations, policies and guidelines
Environmental Management Plan (EMP)
Implementation of EMP
Improvements to Corrective and EMP preventative actions Monitoring EMP
Review of EMP
Figure 8.1 Environmental Management Strategy flow diagram
8.2 Management structure and responsibilities
The following parties are involved in the EMP of this project:
− Project proponent − Ministry of Fisheries and Agriculture − Environmental consultant − Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) − Main Contractor – to be identified yet
The roles and responsibilities of the parties involved are as follows.
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8.2.1 Project proponent
− Execution of all project activities − Preparation of EMP − Detailed designs of infrastructures − Monitoring of the project activities − Submission of annual environmental monitoring reports as required by the EPA and MoFA
8.2.2 Ministry of Fisheries and Agriculture
− Providing final approvals for the project − Monitoring project activities
8.2.3 Environmental Consultant
− Preparation of EMP − Monitoring of performance of project activities according to the EMP − Auditing the EMP to ensure desired outcomes are achieved − Making amendments to the EMP according to the results of the audits − Preparation of environmental monitoring report as required by the EPA (detailed in this report)
8.2.4 Environmental Protection Agency
− Review environmental monitoring report − Intervention in the event of a breach in environmental permit conditions
8.2.5 Contractor
− Undertaking construction work as defined by the proponent and project engineer − Ensure compliance with the EMP during construction stage, including purchase of construction equipment, implementing mitigation measures and monitoring construction site − Ensure all construction workers are aware of EMP and comply with its requirements
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8.3 Management Programme
The proposed management programme is outlined in Table 8.1 below.
Table 8.1: Environmental Management Plan for construction and operation phase
Activity Management measures Responsible Timing Performance Indicators party
Training of All construction workers and project management staff Project Before Staff training records staff and will be provided information on general environmental proponent & commencement contractors issues, compliance with environmental permits and of construction EMP. Environmental activities Consultant All staff involved with environmental monitoring will be provided training in environmental monitoring procedures.
Documenting All non-conformances to the environmental permit Project Continuous Records of non- non- conditions, observed during monitoring will be proponent & during conformance and conformances documented. construction corrective actions and corrective Environmental phase actions Necessary corrective actions and preventative actions consultant will be identified.
Corrective actions will be implemented, with systematic follow-ups to ensure effectiveness of these measures.
Supervision of Appropriately experienced and qualified personnel will Project Before List of project staff project be assigned to supervise the entire project and ensure proponent commencement activities that all activities are carried out with minimal adverse of the project
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Activity Management measures Responsible Timing Performance Indicators party
impact on the environment.
Regular check-ups and maintenance of vehicles will be Continuous Records of vehicle undertaken to ensure all vehicles and machinery are during check-up and construction maintenance properly tuned and maintained phase
Construction activities will be carried out during Work Schedule daytime to minimize nuisance to humans and fauna Project Noise and air proponent & pollution Monitor all occupational areas to ensure noise levels do contractor Continuous Noise monitoring records Management during not exceed WHO standards construction phase
Regular check-up of agricultural equipment to ensure Records of check-up and proper levels of spraying is maintained for agro- maintenance chemicals
All public areas of the island will be equipped with trash Project During Trash bins with contractor & Operation instruction signs bins within easy reach and sign should be displayed to contractor available in all areas Waste encourage use of trash bins management Prior to Staff training records Clear instruction will be given to all staff regarding procedures for handling of chemicals and solid waste commencement during construction
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Activity Management measures Responsible Timing Performance Indicators party
Staff will be trained about environmentally friendly of construction Staff training records practices of waste management works
A separate waste management area will be established During Construction site plan within the island that will deal with waste management construction issues. Hazardous waste will be transported to waste Records of waste management centre in Thilafushi or nearest facility. handling, transfer and disposal
Green waste will be disposed on the site as much as Records of waste possible. This may involve open burning with just green handling, transfer and waste disposal
Waste oil from the generators will be collected and will During operation Records of waste be transported to the nearest waste management centre. handling, transfer and disposal
All construction staff will be trained in spill prevention Prior to Staff training records and clean-up commencement Management of construction of impacts on Project phase Marine Water, proponent & Ground Water Columns and footings will be prefabricated away from contractor Continuous Logs of construction and Land shore during works with details of construction work, location and phase and supervisor
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Activity Management measures Responsible Timing Performance Indicators party
Spill cleanup materials will be made readily available on operation phase On site spill clean-up kits site
All operations must be handled by experienced Daily logs of personnel and supervised thoroughly. construction work with details of work, location and supervisor
Oil, solid waste & hazardous waste will be handled Records of chemical carefully & transported in sealed containers. handling, storage, use and transfer All paints, lubricants, and other chemicals used on site will be stored in a secure and bunded location
All raw materials will be stored away from coastal areas
Logs of construction Septic tanks, grouper tanks and hatchery tanks will be works and maintenance properly constructed and maintained check-ups Project During Waste Water proponent & construction and Site inspection and Management Undertake regular inspection of tanks timely detection and repair of any leakages contractor Operation supervision records
Dispose of sewage and hatchery waste water in suitable Site inspection and location to allow dilution supervision records Management Experienced personnel will be appointed to instruct and Project Prior to Daily logs of of direct supervise work. Proponent commencement construction works with impacts on of construction details of work, location
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Activity Management measures Responsible Timing Performance Indicators party marine life works and supervisor
Minimize affected area and preserve areas not in direct Project Continuous, Construction site plan footprint of coastal structures Proponent & during contractor construction phase
To mitigate the impacts of vegetation clearing activities, During Vegetation clearance it is highly recommended that the trees removed be construction schedule (vegetation relocated and transplanted at a suitable location such as removal) List of transplantation reclaimed areas in inhabited islands or resorts. However, sites this activity depends on the availability of a suitable Transplantation location and willingness of receiving party to accept the schedules Management trees. If the proponent manages to make arrangements of impacts on Project terrestrial for tree transplantation within the project timeframe, Proponent & flora and vegetation clearing activities will be timed with other contractor fauna sites that intend to receive vegetation from the construction site. All the large and mature trees removed that can be transplanted to other islands will be transplanted, where practical. The timings must be coordinated with potential parties who wish to remove the plants to maximize survivability.
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Activity Management measures Responsible Timing Performance Indicators party
All clearing works will be carried out during day time to Daily work schedules minimise disturbances caused to nocturnal fauna such as birds and fruit bats that uses auditory communication, turtles nesting areas and to the local community.
As per the regulations the developer will plant two trees During Landscaping plan, tree for every single large tree lost from the activity. A long- Construction and planting programme operation term tree replanting programme will be started on the airport. The trees transplanted does not require two plants to be planted.
Vegetation clearing will be only done for the trees that During Site clearance plan will require clearing. Any trees that can be retained shall construction be retained.
Strict guidelines and construction monitoring will be Prior to Vegetation removal made for vegetation removal stage to ensure that every vegetation guidelines removal single large tree could be replanted.
The replanting activities on the receiving islands will During Tree relocation and follow natural profiling of vegetation. construction transplantation plan (tree relocation and
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Activity Management measures Responsible Timing Performance Indicators party
transplantation)
Green waste will be cleared to prevent pest infestations During Records of waste Construction collection, transfer and disposal
Trees should be dug at least 3 foot wide of the trunk. Vegetation removal and relocation guidelines
The root system should be watered to keep it wet and Vegetation removal and cemented before digging. relocation guidelines
The roots should be kept wet during transportation. Vegetation removal and relocation guidelines
A monitoring mechanism to check the survival rate of Vegetation monitoring trees must be established after replanting. plan
Holes should be dug on the receiving site prior to Vegetation removal and receiving the trees. relocation guidelines
Where possible, leave the trees after cutting down for a Vegetation removal and few hours before transporting and check for any pests relocation guidelines before loading on to the vessel.
The receiving island should consider using insecticides Vegetation removal and
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Activity Management measures Responsible Timing Performance Indicators party
and pesticides upon receiving the new trees. relocation guidelines
Pest Clear green waste and maintain compost pits on a Daily work schedules management regular basis to prevent pest infestations and records
Maintain natural biodiversity of the island to reduce pest Planting records problems arising from imported varieties
Project During operation Research and use biological controls for pests as far as Proponent phase Training and Research possible Centre records
Control use of pesticides and other agro-chemicals to Daily work schedules ensure minimal impacts are caused on the natural and records environment
Use of Agro- Maximise use of compost, mulching and organic Records of composting chemicals fertilisers instead of artificial fertilisers activities
Project During operation Proponent phase Monitor and optimise use of required artificial fertilisers Records of agro- chemical usage
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Activity Management measures Responsible Timing Performance Indicators party
Use crop rotations to maintain soil nutrient value Planting records throughout the year
First aid kit and evacuation facilities will be made On site first aid kits and readily available on site at all times. evacuation facilities
Works will be carried out during calm weather Work schedule and daily conditions weather records
Project Continuous, Proponent & during Health and Chemicals and hazardous materials used will be safely construction Records of chemical safety of stored and secured. contractor phase handling, storage and construction transfer staff
Work will be carried out during the daytime. Daily work schedules
Safety precaution boards will be erected on site. Safety precaution boards
Health checks will be conducted prior to the Records of health checks commencement of project.
Management Work will be carried out in low tide hours and in calm Project During Daily work schedules,
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Activity Management measures Responsible Timing Performance Indicators party of impacts on condition Proponent & construction weather records Coastal contractor Processes Works will be completed in shortest time period Daily work schedules possible to allow structures to adjust to prevailing wave conditions
Manual methods will be used as far as possible Construction methodology
Diesel fuel will be stored in a steel fuel storage tank During operation Fuel storage site plan located near the generators All areas on the island where diesel or other fuels are Fuel tanks and storage inspection records stored and handled (fuel tank, generator service tanks, filling station for canisters (boats), kerosene store and tanks) will be sealed with a fuel-resistant impervious Project Fuel handling lining to avoid any percolation of hazardous liquids into Proponent & the ground. contractor Fuel will be handled at sealed areas only Fuel tanks and storage inspection records
In transportation, the danger of spilling diesel fuel into Fuel tanks and storage inspection records the sea or the coral environment as well as on the island will be reduced by tight fittings and appropriate material.
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Activity Management measures Responsible Timing Performance Indicators party
Precautions to avoid spilling of diesel fuel will also be Staff training records given by instructions to the staff Construction and sealing of the main fuel tank will be During Construction plan construction executed appropriately
Regular inspections of the welded seams of fuel tanks During Fuel tank and storage construction and inspection records will be carried out operation
Care will be taken in the refueling process of During operation Records of oil spillage vehicles/vessels to avoid any spillage of fuel Local residents will be employed as far as possible During Employment records construction and operation Project Social Provide proper orientation to all workers regarding local During Staff training records Proponent & Conflicts values and customs construction contractor Inform and consult all stakeholders at all stages of the During Records of stakeholder project construction and consultations operation
Artificial drainage systems may be required in low lying Project Construction site plan, During Drainage Proponent and detailed drawings areas of the island. construction Contractor
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8.4 Communications
This EMP will be communicated to all actors with responsibilities for its implementation, including all parties involved in the construction and operation of the bridge.
Regulatory filings such as the EIA and annual monitoring reports submitted to EPA are an important part of external communications related to the environmental and social performance of the project. Potential risks and procedures included in the EMP to reduce identified risks will also be communicated to relevant stakeholders, such as the surrounding communities.
Environmental and social reporting shall be undertaken to provide evidence of the ongoing implementation of the EMP and will cover training activities, site conditions and operations, monitoring data, details of non-conformances, incidents, complaints and follow up action, results of audits and reviews. Reporting shall be undertaken by the project proponent and the Environmental Consultant. The reporting shall constitute an annual report of the environmental performance of the facility and operations. The annual environmental reporting process is summarized in Figure 8.2.
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Figure 8.2: Environmental Management Plan for construction and operation phase
Environmental Protection Agency Project proponent Environmental consultant
• Issues raised from periodic review of • Training of personnel • Training of personnel project • Environmental monitoring • Environmental monitoring audits • Recording of complaints • Recording of incidents • Review of EMP • Recording of complaints and follow up
actions • Review of EMP
Preparation of draft environmental report
Submission of report Annual environmental monitoring report finalized
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8.5 Monitoring and Reporting Responsibilities
The proponent will be responsible for regular monitoring and reporting of progress and achievements of the project in Gaaundoodhoo Island and its encompassing reef.
The EPA will be the lead agency for monitoring, reporting and evaluation on environmental impacts of the proposed project. The proponent will establish a monitoring team within the project staff, particularly during the construction stage to gather information and consult on the project related issues. While most of the monitoring will be conducted by the project proponent, if necessary, it may use the services of competent third-party monitors to provide periodic and objective assessments of progress, shortfalls and challenges in the implementation of specific project components/sub-components.
The monitoring and reporting of the project at the different stages will include:
A: Pre-construction to ensure that: (i) proposed construction activities, as applicable at each site(s), are subjected to environmental screening; plan and design for construction activities confirms to the Environmental Guidelines of the Government of the Maldives for Planning and Design; and (ii) site specific Environmental Assessment (EMP or EIA) for any changes to the approved EIA is prepared in time and incorporated into bidding documents for submission to the EPA for review and approval;
B. During construction: The Proponent and the EPA, on an ongoing basis, will conduct compliance monitoring, using the specific environmental measures relevant to, and prescribed for the activities as well as to assess general environmental and social management/performance. Supervision, as well as progress report(s), should contain information with regard to social and environmental compliance as well as any difficulty or outstanding works need to be prepared. The findings should be discussed with the key stakeholders. The Proponent and the EPA will establish monitoring mechanism for operational stage monitoring.
C. Mid-Term and End-term Reviews: The Proponent and the EPA may conduct this, roughly during the middle of the project period, and an end-term review close to the time when the project ends. Important elements of these reviews will assess the project’s progress.
D: During post-construction: The Proponent and the EPA may agree to jointly prepare a post- construction report for their records. The objective is to ensure the collection of reasonably complete and credible data from all participating project institutions on the key performance indicators and others.
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8.6 Evaluation
The objective of evaluation is to judge the impact of implementation effectiveness. It will be done through independent consultants having experience in similar tasks. This will be undertaken during midterm and end of the project. The evaluation will assess the effectiveness of addressing environmental and social impacts of the project. The midterm evaluation will give feedback for the implementation of the project’s environmental impact management framework.
8.7 EIA Implementation Budget
The EIA related monitoring would be implemented and funded by the proponent. The submissions, preparation of EIAs and funding the mitigation measures will be responsibility of the proponent and will be included as part of the overall project cost.
The proponent will be responsible for financing the monitoring activities. These are expected to be financed as part of the project administrative costs.
8.8 Health and Safety Management
The purpose of this section is to define requirements and designate procedures to be followed during the construction activities for the project. All provisions of this section are mandatory to all contractors and subcontractors that may be engaged in all phases of the project. The provisions presented here conforms to the Employment Act of Maldives (Law number: 2/2008), specifically Chapter 8 of this Act: Work Place Safety and Employee Health.
Project health and safety organization
The project supervisor onsite has the overall authority and responsibility for all site related activities, including health and safety of the workers and public during construction stage.
All employees will have the right to refuse to work and/or stop work authority when the employee feels that the work is unsafe (including subcontractors) or where specified safety precautions are not adequate or fully understood. All employees have the right to refuse to work on any site or operation where the safety procedure specified in this document or other safety policies are not being followed.
All authorized visitors to the project sites shall be briefed by the Supervisor on the health and safety risks at the site and will be required to comply with the health and safety policies specified here. Unauthorized visitors will not be permitted to the project site.
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Health and Safety Risks
The main health and safety risks envisaged from this project are:
a) Accidents and Fatigue There is a general risk of accidents leading to injury to workers, due to inadequate operational control procedures. This may occur during construction. Such risks will be minimized through close supervision of construction activities. Access to site will be regulated and restricted, to minimize the risk of accidents. Another significant source of occupational health and safety risk is fatigue, which can result in injury and prolonged illness. Hence, the working hours of the personnel will be scheduled with such considerations.
b) Noise Noise can pose a significant health risk, especially for those in close proximity to equipment that emit loud sounds. However, loud noise is unlikely to prolong beyond 3-4 hours a day at a stretch.
Safety Program
a) Personal protective equipment Personal Protective Equipment shall be provided to protect workers from physical hazard that may be encountered. All employees are required to be trained in the use, limitations, care and maintenance of the protective equipment that they will have to use during the project.
All project personnel will be required to wear:
. Boots (Leather boots with safety toe) . Hard hat (Resist penetration by objects, absorb shock/blow, water resistant and slow burning, . Safety glasses . Masks . Gloves
The following safety equipment must be used as required:
. Ear mufflers (if working at a high noise area) . Protective chemical gloves (when handling any waste oil or chemicals) . Safety harnesses . Life buoys . Life vests (if working overwater areas)
All protective equipment’s must be inspected regularly for any malfunction/damages.
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b) Site Control
• All authorized visitors to the project sites shall be informed to the Supervisor. Unauthorized visitors will not be permitted to the project site.
• The working area of the site will be barricaded (if required) to prevent any trespassing into the area where the machineries are in constant work.
• No open electrical connection will be kept at the site, all the switch boards, panels etc. will be covered and protected
c) Safety Briefing All personnel will be made aware of task-specific health and safety risks that they may encounter during work. All personnel will be informed of fire prevention measures, fire extinguishing methods, and emergency response plan and evacuation procedures.
Emergency Response
The major categories of emergencies that could occur are:
a) Illnesses and physical injuries b) Natural disasters (e.g., flooding) c) Fires and explosions All accidents should be immediately reported to the site supervisor. In case of fire, the supervisor or the most senior person on site must initiate a full evacuation from the site.
First Aid box with the necessary medicine will be kept at the site office to take care of the small injuries etc.
The emergency contacts are as follows:
• Fire and Rescue: Maldives National Defence Force, Fire Department
• Accidents and Sea Ambulance: Maldives National Defence Force, Sea Ambulance Services
• Police: Raa Atoll Police station, Ungoofaaru Records of any accident or fault will be maintained so that the precaution will be taken for future.
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8.9 Grievance Redress Mechanism
Prior to commencement of the project, the proponent will establish a grievance redress mechanism for reporting any grievances related to the project. The aims of this grievance redress mechanism are;
• To receive and record grievances from all parties affected by the project including residents of nearby inhabited islands, general public, nearby resort operators, and construction workers (including workers employed by contractor)
• Assess the complaints and determine ways to address the issues
• If required, adjust management plans to address any significant issues identified Any grievances related to the project can be lodged in person, by phone or via email/letter directly to the proponent. Depending on the urgency of the issue identified, the proponent shall address any identified issues within an appropriate time and notify the affected person/s as soon as the issue is resolved. As a general rule, the proponent shall aim to resolve any matters within 1-2 weeks from the time the complaint was lodged. For matters that require longer response time, the affected person/s will be contacted within this period and given an expected response time. All records of grievances and actions taken will be recorded and maintained. Based on the issues identified through the Grievance Redress Mechanism, the Environment Management Plan will be revised where necessary.
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9 ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING PLAN
9.1 Introduction
This chapter will outline the monitoring plan for the proposed project. Environmental monitoring is essential because, although with proper mitigation measures, the overall environmental damage can be significantly minimized, an unforeseen impact may still occur. Furthermore, some of the impacts predicted may turn out to be far greater than predicted, making mitigation measures ineffective. Therefore, in order to avoid or reduce the chances of such events, regular and frequent environmental monitoring is vital.
9.2 Objectives of the Monitoring Plan
The main objectives of the monitoring plan are:
1. To identify whether the predicted impacts are accurate and mitigation measures taken are effective 2. To identify any unforeseen impacts so that appropriate mitigation measures can be taken at the earliest 3. To identify and resolve any issues of social unrest at the earliest 4. To eliminate or reduce environmental costs
9.3 Before construction
The monitoring assessments prescribed in Table 9.1 are required before construction, if the construction activities begin 12 months after this EIA.
9.4 Construction Phase Monitoring Plan
Table 9.2 below summarizes the key aspects of the construction phase monitoring plan. The table indicates the methodology, frequency and estimated cost for each monitoring attribute that will be required for the proposed project.
Additionally, the following aspects will be monitored during the construction stage to ensure that environmental impact are minimized.
1. Daily monitoring to ensure that the cleared areas and other construction processes are not creating any significant dust nuisance for the local environment. 2. Daily monitoring of vehicle refuelling and repair should be undertaken to ensure that these exercises are carried out on hardstands and to ensure that they are done properly.
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This is to reduce potential of soil contamination from spills. The site supervisor will conduct spot checks. 3. Daily inspection of site clearance activities to ensure that the proposed construction plans are followed. 4. Monitor and ensure that approved suppliers and sources of local materials used.
9.5 Operating Phase Monitoring Plan
Operational phase monitoring program will be carried out for a period of 2 years from the date of completion of all infrastructure developments. Table 9.3 provides the schedule for operational phase monitoring.
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Table 9.1: Monitoring Schedule for pre-construction stage (if required)
Monitoring Indicator Methodology Locations and Frequency Applicable Est. Total Cost attribute samples standards (MVR)*
Water Quality pH, Salinity, On-site testing - SW1, SW2, SW3 Once prior to the Maldives EPA 6,500.00 (Marine) Temperature, Laboratory and SW4 commencement of standards Turbidity, Total Analysis construction Suspended Solids, activities Ammonia, Nitrate, Sulphate, Phosphate, Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD)
Water Quality Temperature, pH, On-site testing / GW1, GW2, Once prior to the Maldives EPA 10,000.00 (Ground) Salinity, Laboratory GW3, GW4, and commencement of standards Ammonia, Analysis GW5 construction Phosphate, activities Sulphate, Total Coliforms and Faecal Coliforms
Bathymetry Depth Sonarmite and Sites for coastal Once prior to NA 50,000.00 echo sounder structures and pipe commencement of layout construction
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activities
Coral Reef Health Percentage of live Photo Quadrat and Marine Transect Once prior to Maldives EPA 6,000.00 coral cover, and Fish Census locations: T2, T3 commencement of standards fish species construction abundance and activities composition
Erosion and Beach profiles Surveying using Profile locations Once prior to Maldives EPA 9,000.00 coastal changes level, staff, P1-P9 commencement of standards compass and D- construction GPS activities
Beach line (at high D-GPS tracks Whole island Once prior to Maldives EPA 8,000.00 tide) and along the beach commencement of standards vegetation line construction activities
Vegetation Vegetation Cover Aerial imagery and All affected Once prior to - 12,000.00 analysis of islands commencement of vegetated area construction activities
*Does not include logistics, and consultant’s fees.
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Table 9.2: Monitoring Schedule for construction stage
Monitoring Indicator Methodology Locations and Frequency Applicable Est. Total Cost attribute samples standards (MVR)* pH, Salinity, Temperature, Weekly during 24,000.00 Turbidity, Total coastal works. (monthly) Suspended Solids, On-site testing / Ammonia, Nitrate, SW1, SW2, SW3 Maldives EPA Laboratory Sulphate, and SW4 Henceforth standards Analysis Phosphate, monthly till Biological Oxygen completion of 5,500.00 Demand (BOD) coastal (monthly) Water Quality construction phase. (Marine) Turbidity, Total On-site testing Maldives EPA 35,000.00 Suspended Solids Weekly during standards (monthly) coastal works.
SW1, SW2, SW3 Henceforth 1,200.00 and SW4 monthly till (monthly) completion of coastal construction phase. Water Quality Conductivity, pH, On-site testing / GW1. GW2, Every 6 months Maldives EPA 10,000.00 (Ground) Salinity, Laboratory GW3, GW4, and during standards (monthly)
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Temperature, Total Analysis GW5 construction phase Dissolved Solids, Total Petroleum Hydrocarbon Bathymetry Depth Sonarmite and Site for coastal Once after the NA 12,000.00 – echo sounder works completion of 24,000.00 coastal works Coral Reef Health Percentage of live Photo Quadrat and Marine Transect Once upon Maldives EPA 6,000.00 coral cover, and Fish Census locations: T2, and completion of and standards fish species T3 coastal works and abundance and pipe layout composition Erosion and Beach profiles Surveying using Profile locations Once upon Maldives EPA 10,000.00 coastal changes level, staff, P1-P9 completion of standards compass and D- coastal works GPS Beach line (at high D-GPS tracks Whole island Maldives EPA 16,000.00 tide) and along the beach standards vegetation line Vegetation Vegetation Cover Aerial imagery and Whole island Once on - 22,000.00 analysis of completion of all vegetated area, and construction areas vegetation activities was removed
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Labour Force To ensure the Legal Daily logs NA Included in workforce conformance to Logs contractor fees conform to the national laws and relevant laws and regulations regulations
To ensure conflicts External among workers and other external complaints groups are avoided
Solid Waste To quantify the Waste type and Logs Weekly Waste Regulation Included in number and type quantity 2013 contractor fees of waste disposed and their method of disposal
Health and Safety To ensure Health and Safety Logs Daily NA Included in adequate health measures contractor fees and safety undertaken measures are in place during Accidents and construction phase injuries *Does not include logistics and consultant fees
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Table 9.3: Monitoring Schedule for operation stage
Monitoring Indicator Methodology Locations and Frequency Applicable Est. Total Cost attribute samples standards (MVR) Noise Noise level Using noise meters N1-N5 Bi-annually for a - 5,000.00 period of 2 years after completion of construction Noise complaints Logs NA
Water Quality pH, Salinity, On-site testing / SW1, SW2, SW3 Bi-annually for a Maldives EPA 15,000.00 (Marine) Temperature, Laboratory and SW4 period of 2 years standards Turbidity, Analysis after completion of (annual) Sedimentation construction Rate, Ammonia, Nitrate, Phosphate, Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD)
Water Quality Temperature, pH, On-site testing / GW1. GW2, Bi-annually for a Maldives EPA 20,000.00 (Ground) Salinity, Laboratory GW3, GW4, and period of 2 years standards Ammonia, Analysis GW5 after completion of (annual) Phosphate, construction Sulphate, Total Coliforms and Faecal Coliforms
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Monitoring Indicator Methodology Locations and Frequency Applicable Est. Total Cost attribute samples standards (MVR) Fertiliser use Amount of Included in Admin N/A artificial and Operational Monthly during N/A Costs organic fertiliser records operation stage applied
Pesticide use Amount of Operational Monthly during Included in Admin N/A N/A pesticides used records operation stage Costs
Irrigation Water Amount of water Operational Monthly during Included in Admin N/A N/A used for irrigation records operation stage Costs
Use of Fish foods / Amount of fish Included in Admin N/A Operational Monthly during feed / hormones N/A Hormones records operation stage Costs used for groupers
Erosion and Beach profiles Surveying using Profile locations Once annually for Maldives EPA 10,000.00 coastal changes level, staff, P1-P9 a period of 2 years standards compass and D- after completion of GPS construction
Beach line (at high D-GPS tracks All affected Maldives EPA 16,000.00 tide) and along the beach islands standards vegetation line
*Does not include logistics and consultant fees
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9.6 Monitoring Report
A detailed environmental monitoring report is required to be compiled and submitted to the Ministry of Environment yearly based on the data collected for monitoring the parameters included in the monitoring plan given in the EIA. This report may be submitted to the relevant Government agencies in order to demonstrate compliance. In addition to this more frequent reporting of environmental monitoring will be communicated among the environmental consultant, project proponent, the contractors and supervisors to ensure possible negative impacts are mitigated appropriately during and after the project.
9.7 Cost of Monitoring
Estimated environmental monitoring cost of pre-construction stage (if required) is MVR 101,500.
Estimated environmental monitoring cost for the construction phase is MVR 154,000.00
The estimated annual environmental monitoring cost during operation is MVR 66,000.
Professional consultants will be hired to undertake the monitoring and the necessary equipment for monitoring will be procured.
9.8 Commitment for Monitoring
The proponent is fully committed to undertake the monitoring program outlined in this Chapter (refer Appendix K of this report).
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10 STAKEHOLDER CONSULTATIONS
Stakeholder consultations for this EIA were undertaken from July-October 2018. Consultations were requested with the following stakeholders:
• R. Hulhudhuffaaru Island Council • R. Hulhudhuffaaru Island Public • Raa Atoll Council • Maldives Energy Authority • Ministry of Fisheries and Agriculture • Marine Research Centre In each consultation, stakeholders were given a brief introduction of the project and asked about their views, concerns and recommendations about the project. Discussion of the meetings is summarized in sections below.
Stakeholder consultations for this EIA were undertaken in September/October 2018. Consultations were held with the island council of R.Hulhudhuffaaru, Raa Atoll Council, island public of R.Hulhudhuffaaru, Ministry of Fisheries and Agriculture, Maldives Energy Authority and Marine Research Centre. Members of the public were consulted on a door-to-door basis. Stakeholder Attendance sheets have been provided in Appendix J.
10.1 R.Hulhudhuffaaru Island Council
Meeting with Hulhudhuffaaru Island Council was held on 28th September 2018 at 21:00 at the Island Council Office. Five members from the island council office were present at the meeting. Participants were given a brief introduction on the EIA process, role of EIA consultant, followed by details regarding the project. The council was asked about their views, concerns and recommendations. Below are details of the participants and a summary of the discussion of the meeting.
Participants: Mohamed Ibrahim (Council President), Ali Jaaveedh (Council Vice President), Ibrahim Shifaaz (Council Member), Khaalidh Yoosuf (Assistant Director) and Ali Rafeeq (S. Municipal Service Officer).
Summary of Discussion:
• The council has not been informed about this project through any official channels. However, they are aware of the island being announced for long term lease and that a private party is in the process of acquiring it.
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• The island of Hulhudhuffaaru was officially registered as an inhabited island in 1995 with the residents of Gaaundoodhoo and Ungulu starting the process of relocation back in 1992. • Currently the island is heavily utilised by the residents of Hulhudhuffaaru. Every other Saturday the council allows locals to visit the island to harvest forest related products. The announcement is made the day before on Friday. Locals visit the island in groups either in small dinghy’s or boats. They should be present on the island before 07:00 am and will line up near the entrance area of the island. A member of staff from the council office is also present to ensure the harvesting activities are carried out smoothly. At 07:00 the council staff member allows everyone to move ahead into the island and start their harvesting work. Some of the items collected and the rates charged by the council include; o Coconuts: ¼ of the harvest is for free and the remaining is charged MVR 0.50 per coconut o Dried palm leaves: free o Maakashikeyo: MVR 5/- o Midhili: A sack for MVR 25/- Additionally, the collection of raw palm leaves and firewood is strictly prohibited. All payments are carried out at the council office on the next day (Sunday). All collections are tallied and recorded by the council office staff member. This activity is often referred to as a marathon by the locals due to the hectic rush in which it is carried out. Often anywhere between 50 to 200 people may participate in this activity. • Regarding environmental concerns, the council stated that there are no protected trees that they are aware of on the island. They did highlight that a large area of the central parts of the island has a very low elevation and is often marshy with small puddles of water. A single Kulhlhavah tree and a few Kan’doo trees are also observed in the center of this area. The island is not famous for migratory birds or even turtle nesting. • The council advised to remove the service jetty in the initial concept plan that was presented to them. Their advice is based on their years of experience of using the island, the only feasible access option is the proposed jetty closest to Hulhudhuffaaru. The service jetty area can experience very rough conditions throughout most of the year and is highly unlikely to be usable without costly interventions by the project. They also advised to avoid infrastructure development in the central parts due to the low elevation of the area. It was also suggested to remove any developments where the existing cemetery is observed, as it is of great sentimental value to the residents of Hulhudhuffaaru. • Their main concern was the loss of livelihood for the 100’s of locals who depend on the island for harvesting coconuts and palm leaves. They even applied to MoFA to acquire
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the island for the council for this reason as well. They have suggested to advice the proponent to meet with the council and the public directly to address these concerns and to devise a plan that would enable the continuity of the harvesting practices of Hulhudhuffaaru locals. • The council does welcome such development projects in the region and hope this would bring additional income to the island of Hulhudhuffaaru. They hope that being the closest inhabited island, Hulhudhuffaru residents will get priority in terms of employment opportunities and other business partnerships.
The proponent was informed on the discussions held with the local council. They agreed that it can be a mutually beneficial partnership as they see the harvesting practices as a way to keep the general environment of the island clean and a pathway to building a good relationship with the neighbouring community island. As their core business is to develop the grouper hatchery and grouper farms on the island, they do not see this as an obstacle but more as an opportunity to build a good relationship with the community of Hulhudhuffaaru. However, they have certain concerns on allowing such large number of people on the island in an unsupervised manner. Some of the ideas discussed among the proponent’s team include allowing smaller groups, or collecting the products and bringing them out to the jetty area etc. They will meet the locals in person once the island has been acquired to detail out these plans in a feasible and mutually beneficial manner.
10.2 Island community of R.Hulhudhuffaaru
Door-to-door consultations were held on Hulhudhuffaru on 28th-29th September 2018. This included 20 persons with approximately 60% being women. While 8 persons were consulted on the island of Hulhudhuffaaru, the remaining 12 persons were consulted on Gaaundoodhoo to focus more on the key stakeholders of this project (the persons using the island for harvesting practices). Most of the persons who the field team consulted were met in small groups of 2-3 with only 6 persons in total providing information on their names and addresses and the rest remaining anonymous. However, everyone’s views are summarised in the following paragraphs.
Everyone who was consulted had similar views regarding the project. According to everyone, there are beneficial aspects to the proposed project and they have no issues with it as it is likely to bring some form of development to the region. Their only concern was regarding the harvesting of forest related products from the island. More than other products, their biggest concern is with regards to the collection of dried palm leaves. According to most estimates, at least 200 households are involved in making thatch leaves for the resort market. On some days, the island has even recorded exports valuing over MVR 100,000 (total) with most working households earning anywhere between MVR 4000-6000 from this activity. Generally, everyone
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had the idea that it is possible to come to an agreement with the proponent on sustainable harvesting practices for the island. They look forward to meet the proponent and discuss further on this matter.
Table 10.1 List of some of the public members consulted
# Name Address Remarks 1 Ibrahim Nazim Shabnamge - 2 Abdul Hameed Lainoofaruge - 3 Adam Naseem Naseemeevilla Relocated from Gaaundoodhoo 4 Mareena Moosa Asseyri Relocated from Ungulu 5 Nafeesa Hassan Kurikeela Villa Relocated from Ungulu 6 Sameema Idhrees Maamelaameli Relocated from Gaaundoodhoo
As highlighted above in the local council consultation notes, the proponent has been informed on the situation and is willing to meet and discuss potential partnerships with the island council and the residents of Hulhudhuffaaru.
10.3 Raa Atoll Council
The meeting with Raa Atoll Council was held on 30th September 2018, in their Atoll Council Office (11:00-12:00). Participants were given a brief introduction on the EIA process, role of EIA consultant, followed by details regarding the Project. Additionally, the views of the island council and the public was also shared in this meeting. Below are details of the participants and a summary of the discussion of the meeting.
Participants: Ali Shahid (Council President), Fathulla Ismail (Director General) and Ahmed Riza (Asst. Planning Officer).
Summary of Discussion:
The council was unaware of this project and its details. The EIA team provided all available information at the time regarding the project. The council informed that as per their understanding the island is still under the caretaking of Hulhudhuffaaru Island Council and is currently being utilized by the locals of Hulhudhuffaaru. However, since the council is new and the relocation happened several years ago, they are not aware of the details of how the island is being used by the locals.
Regarding the islands environment, they have little knowledge on the island, but is aware that it is a “Gaamathee” island from which the inhabitants were relocated to Hulhudhuffaaru due to
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severe erosion, low elevation and the island being not suitable for habitation. They are not aware of any unique flora or fauna that is on the island.
Regarding the project’s potential, the council feels this is a great opportunity to develop the fisheries sector of Raa Atoll. They see the development of a hatchery and the ease of access to fingerlings to greatly contribute to the development of small-scale grouper farmers in the region.
They hope that the proponent of the project meets with the island council and public of Hulhudhuffaaru, as they are directly affected by the project. They also wished the Ministry of Fisheries and Agriculture would improve their communication on such matters, that they could be better informed on the development activities of the atoll.
Overall the Atoll council fully support and welcome such developments in the Atoll. They hope to establish good relations with the proponent and to be kept informed on the progress of their activities.
The proponent is aware of the discussions held with the atoll council and their concerns and is willing to meet and build relations with the council. They will also be working along with the island council and public of Hulhudhuffaaru as suggested to ensure a suitable outcome is achieved for the harvesting practices of Gaaundoodhoo.
10.4 Maldives Energy Authority
Meeting with MEA was held on 14th October 2018 via a phone conversation with Mr. Muaviyath Shareef (Director). He was given a brief introduction on the EIA process, role of EIA consultant, followed by details regarding the Project. Additionally, the views of the island council and the public was also shared.
He highlighted that MEA is a regulatory body and does not have to meet for specific projects such as these. He understood that the EIA team requested the meeting because it was specifically included in the approved ToR for this EIA. However, he advised that EPA should be meeting them directly if they had any concerns and that he cannot envisage any reason as to why MEA needs to be consulted regarding this project at the moment. He recommended the project to follow all relevant laws, regulations and guidelines regarding power generation in the Maldives. He did not have any major concerns regarding the project as it does not involve a high level of power generation to it such as an inhabited island or resort would require.
The proponent had similar concerns as to why the EPA include MEA in as a stakeholder in the approved ToR. However, they are committed to ensure all laws and regulations will be followed when establishing the power generation system on the island.
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10.5 Ministry of Fisheries and Agriculture
Meeting with MoFA was held on 04th October 2018 at 11:00pm at the 7th floor meeting room at Velana building. Participants were given a brief introduction on the EIA process, role of EIA consultant, followed by details regarding the Project. Additionally, the views of the island council and the public was also shared in this meeting. Below are details of the participants and a summary of the discussion of the meeting.
Participants: Ali Amir (Director), Ismail Rasheed (Director) and Adam Manik (Deputy Director General)
Summary of Discussion:
MoFA informed us that they do not have much information regarding the activities of Gaaundoodhoo or how the locals of Hulhudhuffaaru utilise the island.
The main concerns raised during the meeting was the potential loss of forest-related products such as coconuts and palm leaves. Their concern was related to the locals of Hulhudhuffaaru who depend on them for their income. They advised to inform the client to meet the local council and the public of Hulhudhuffaaru to develop a mechanism which is mutually beneficial and will allow the continuity of the local harvesting activities without affecting the overall project for the island.
They also stated that the palm trees in the Maldives have become quite mature and most areas need to be reforested throughout the Maldives. So, they advised to plant additional palm trees (young palms) to improve the local stock of palm trees.
MoFA also highlighted the importance of meeting Marine Research Centre, as they would be the best stakeholder to provide technical information regarding this project. Additionally, they recommended to advise the client on ensuring timely delivery of all monitoring reports to the ministry as per their agreement.
The proponent already has plans to meet the local council and the public of Hulhudhuffaru to develop a sustainable harvesting plan for coconuts, palm leaves and other forest related products which is beneficial to both parties.
10.6 Marine Research Centre
Meeting with MRC was held on 15th October 2018 at 13:30pm at the 2nd floor meeting room at MRC Office. Participants were given a brief introduction on the EIA process, role of EIA consultant, followed by details regarding the Project. Additionally, the views of the island
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council and the public was also shared in this meeting. Below are details of the participants and a summary of the discussion of the meeting.
Participants: Shafiya Naeem (Aquatic Pathologist) and Yoosuf Rilwan (Senior Research Officer).
Summary of Discussion:
Types of maricultural systems were discussed in detail. MRC highlighted the importance of having a recirculating system for the hatchery, especially for the brood stock tank. This is to ensure that eggs are collected more efficiently and to reduce loss of eggs through the system. A flow-through system was suggested for the grow-out tanks as this would be a more economical option. Regarding the location for the grow-out tanks, we informed MRC that no tanks will be located on the reef, and all tanks will be located within the hatchery complex to ease operations. If required additional tanks will be built on land as well, with no plans to use the reef of Gaaundoodhoo.
Regarding the source of brood stock, MRC was informed that the proponent will be sourcing adult males and females from local fisherman or by harvesting themselves. Additionally, the proponent will be utilizing hormone injection into female groupers for their sex reversal as it is a vital way of ensuring enough adult male groupers are sourced.
Detailed discussions were carried out regarding the intake and outfall for the hatchery and grow- out pens. MRC approves the proposed outfall location as it is towards the oceanward side and it is the most suitable location to ensure proper dilution of the waste water. It was also discussed to combine the brine outfall and hatchery outfall as it will allow further mixing of the water before being dumped into the ocean. The proposed intake location is outside the reef on the northern side of the island. MRC advised to ensure the intake pipe is a few meters deep to reduce the risk of any pollutants on the surface water entering the intake to the hatchery.
MRC also informed that the proponent will have to acquire an aquaculture license from the Ministry of Fisheries and Agriculture to build and operate a grouper hatchery in the Maldives. This can be carried out after the approval of the EIA and they will need to submit a proposal to ministry to acquire it.
The information provided by MRC has been shared and discussed with the proponent and the recommendations given has been included in the final design of the project.
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11 POTENTIAL DATA GAPS AND ASSESSMENT LIMITATIONS
11.1 Gaps in Information
The environment of Maldives is generally poorly understood. This may be due to the lack of detailed studies in the Maldives. Much of the literatures on coral islands are derived from studies done in the Pacific which unfortunately has very different climatic and geologic settings.
Detailed environmental analysis for an EIA is often required to be undertaken in a relatively short period of time. Given the seasonal climatic variations in Maldives and the differences in local geomorphologic and climate settings in individual islands such a short time frame is often too little to assess selected aspects of the environment. This problem is compounded by the absence of long-term studies in other parts of Maldives. Hence, most EIA’s end up being based on an environmental snapshot of specific point in time. However, experienced EIA specialists can deliver a close match to reality based on a number of similar assessments. In this regard, the following gaps could be identified in information.
− Absence of long-term site specific or even regional data (at least 2 years). Most critical data include current, wave and terrestrial modification history. − Absence of historical and long-term records on reef and lagoon environment. − Absence of detailed topographic model
These gaps are seriously considered in the assessment and care has been taken to address the issue in designing mitigation measures and the monitoring programme.
11.2 Uncertainties in Impact Prediction
Environmental impact prediction involves a certain degree of uncertainty as the natural and anthropogenic impacts can vary from place to place due to even slight differences in ecological, geomorphological or social conditions in a particular place. As noted earlier, there is also no long-term data and information regarding the particular site under consideration, which makes it difficult to predict impacts. However, the level of uncertainty is partially minimised due to the experience of Agricultural projects in similar settings in the Maldives. Nevertheless, it is important to consider that there will be uncertainties and voluntary monitoring of natural processes as described in the monitoring programme is absolutely essential.
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12 CONCLUSIONS
This report has evaluated the potential environmental and socio-economic impacts of the proposed construction and operation of a commercial scale fisheries and agricultural project on Gaaundoodhoo Island, Raa Atoll. The proponent of this project is Sea Partners Maldives Pvt Ltd. The report finds that there are significant positive as well as some adverse impacts from the proposed project components. Where possible, measures to mitigate adverse impacts, and enhance positive impacts of the project are outlined. Residual impacts are identified and recommended to be addressed or compensated within this project.
The island of Gaaundoodhoo is located on the eastern rim of Raa atoll and the closest inhabited island is R. Hulhudhuffaaru (800m). The construction phase of the project is expected to take between 2 to 5 years. As this is a fisheries and agricultural project being carried out on an island that will be leased for 21 years, the project will be continued in phases of development.
This project involves the establishment of commercial farming plots, hatcheries, grow-out pens, along with supporting infrastructure for post-harvest processing, training facilities, storage and staff facilities.
The only negative feedback received for the project was from residents of Hulhudhuffaaru regarding the potential loss of income as they currently utilise the island for harvesting forest products. However, during the consultations both the council and individuals interviewed, agreed that the proposed project has potential to bring economic growth to the island of Hulhudhuffaaru and the Raa atoll region. Their request was for the proponent to work with the locals in formulating a harvesting plan that is mutually beneficial to all parties involved. As an effort to work with the locals, the proponent agreed to discuss further on the topic upon approval of the EIA and the overall layout design of the project has also been revised to leave over 50% of the island undisturbed to accommodate this activity.
The construction phase of the project will result in significant loss of vegetation on the island during vegetation clearance and general construction activities. These impacts are likely to persist only in the short- to medium-term. There are also moderate risks to long-term erosion. These impacts can be reduced by taking the recommend mitigation measures. There will be residual impacts from the project due to loss of vegetation cover and marine life.
The main impacts during the operation phase are related to the risks of intensive mariculture and agriculture, including intensive irrigation, fish diseases, animal diseases and excessive use of artificial fertilisers and pesticides that may affect the ground and marine water of the island.
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Key mitigation measures for the construction stage include undertaking all marine works with in the shortest time possible and working during low tide hours, devising a harvesting plan for the locals, preventing ground and marine water pollution. A number of mitigation measures have also been built into the design after discussion between the EIA team and the proponent. The use of sustainable maricultural and agricultural practices, such as regular maintenance and inspection of hatchery pipe network and tanks, implementing drip irrigation, application of compost and mulching in preference to artificial fertilisers, crop rotation and using biological controls for pest management, have also been suggested to minimise adverse impacts during the operational stage.
The alternatives discussed for this project include the “no-project” option, alternative design, alternative irrigation techniques, alternative water intake locations and alternative sediment control measures.
The monitoring plan has been designed with a focus to analyse the significant impacts over time. A management framework has been proposed and it is essential that this framework be used in the construction stage of the project.
Most components of the proposed developments are in conformance to the laws and regulations of the Maldives. The objective of this EIA is to evaluate and present the likely impacts from the proposed project on natural and socio-economic environment, so that the proponent, decision makers and stakeholders can take an informed decision on implementing the project components. It is strongly recommended for the relevant parties to consider the recommendations and findings of this report. The project will need to be implemented in accordance with the final Environmental Decision issued by the Environmental Protection Agency after evaluation of this EIA report.
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REFERENCES
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CDE CONSULTING 2017. Environmental Impact Assessment for the Agricultural Development Project at Minaavaru, Noonu Atoll, Impex Fisheries Pvt Ltd, Maldives.
CDE CONSULTING 2016. Environmental Impact Assessment for the Agricultural Development Project at Dheburidheythereyvaadhoo, Raa Atoll, Amir Mansoor, Ma.Manas, Maldives.
Erftemeijer, P. L., Riegl, B., Hoeksema, B. W., & Todd, P. A. (2012). Environmental impacts of dredging and other sediment disturbances on corals: A review. Marine Pollution Bulletin , 64, 1737-1765.
Fabricius, K. E. (2005). Effects of terrestrial runoff on the ecology of corals and coral reefs: review and synthesis. Marine Pollution Bulletin , 50, 125-146.
GODA, Y. 1998. Causes of high waves at Maldives in April 1987. Male': Asia Development Bank.
Gilmour, J. (1999). Experimental investigation into the effects of suspended sediment on fertilization, larval survival and settlement in a scleractinian coral. Marine Biology , 135, 451- 462.
HAY, J. E. (2006). Climate Risk Profile for the Maldives. Male', Maldives: Ministry of Environment Energy and Water.
KENCH, P. S., BRANDER, R. W., PARNELL, K. E. & MCLEAN, R. F. 2006. Wave energy gradients across a Maldivian atoll: Implications for island geomorphology. Geomorphology, 81, 1-17.
MEC 2004. Maldives: State of the Environment 2004, Male', Ministry of Environment and Construction.
NASEER, A. 2003. The integrated growth response of coral reefs to environmental forcing: morphometric analysis of coral reefs of the Maldives. PhD, Dalhousie University.
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National Bureau of Statistics, 2014: Population and Housing Census 2014, Preliminary Results, Male’, National Bureau of Statistics.
National Bureau of Statistics.(2014). Maldives Population and Housing Census 2014 Micro Dataset. Male’, Maldives: Ministry of Finance and Treasury.
National Bureau of Statistics.(2014). Maldives Population and Housing Census 2014: 2018. Retrieved from http://statisticsmaldives.gov.mv/statistical-releases/.
Richmond, R. H. (1993). Coral Reefs: Present Problems and Future Concerns Resulting from Anthropogenic Disturbane. American Zoologist , 33, 524-536.
Riegl, B., & Branch, G. M. (1995). Effects of sediment on the energy budgets of four scleractinian (Bourne 1900) and five alcyonacean (Lamouroux 1816) corals. Journal of Experimental Marine Biology and Ecology , 186, 256-275.
Rogers, C. S. (1990). Responses of coral reefs and reef organisms to sedimentation. Marine Ecology Progress Series , 62, 185-202.
UNDP 2006. Developing a Disaster Risk Profile for Maldives, Male', United Nations Development Programme and Government of Maldives.
UNDP (2009). Detailed Island Risk Assessment of Maldives. Male': UNDP, Maldives.
Wenger, A. S., Johansen, L. J., & Jones, G. P. (2012). Increasing suspended sediment reduces foraging, growth and condition of a planktivores damselfish. Journal of Experimental Marine Biology and Ecology , 428, 43-48.
Wesseling, I., Uychiaoco, A. J., Alino, P. M., Aurin, T., & Vermaat, J. E. (1999). Damange and recovery of four Philippine corals from short-term sediment burial. Marine Ecology Progress Series , 176, 11-15.
YOUNG, I. R. 1999. Seasonal variability of the global ocean wind and wave climate. International Journal of Climatology, 19, 931–950.
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APPENDIX A – Terms of Reference
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ީސްނެޖެއ ްނަޝްކެޓޮރްޕ ްލަޓްނަމަރަޔަވްނެއ Environmental Protection Agency
No: 203-EIARES/PRIV/2018/553
Terms of Reference for Environmental Impact Assessment for an Agriculture Project at Gaaundoodhoo Island, Raa Atoll
The following is the Terms of Reference (ToR) following the scoping meeting held on 05th September 2018 for undertaking the EIA of the proposed agricultural project at Gaaundoodhoo Island, Raa Atoll. The proponent of the project is Sea Partners Maldives Pvt Ltd. The EIA consultant is Mr. Ahmed Shaig (EIA P02/15)
While every attempt has been made to ensure that this TOR addresses all of the major issues associated with development proposal, they are not necessarily exhaustive. They should not be interpreted as excluding from consideration matters deemed to be significant but not incorporated in them, or matters currently unforeseen, that emerge as important or significant from environmental studies, or otherwise, during the course of preparation of the EIA report
1. Introduction to the project – Describe the purpose of the project and, if applicable, the background information of the project/activity and the tasks already completed. Objectives of the development activities should be specific and if possible quantified. Define the arrangements required for the environmental assessment including how work carried out under this contract is linked to other activities that are carried out or that is being carried out within the project boundary. Identify the donors and the institutional arrangements relevant to this project.
2. Study area – Submit a minimumA3 size scaled plan with indications of all the proposed infrastructures. Specify the agreed boundaries of the study area for the environmental impact assessment highlighting the proposed development location and size. The study area should include adjacent or remote areas, such as relevant developments and nearby environmentally sensitive sites (e.g. coral reef, sea grass, mangroves, marine protected areas, special birds site, sensitive species nursery and feeding grounds). Relevant developments in the areas must also be addressed including residential areas, all economic ventures and cultural sites.
3. Scope of work – Identify and number tasks of the project including site preparation, construction and decommissioning phases. Task 1. Description of the proposed project – Provide a full description and justification of the relevant parts of the project, using maps at appropriate scales where necessary. The following should be provided (all inputs and outputs related to the proposed activities shall be justified): The main activities of the project are: Land clearance/preparation; Water supply plan for irrigation including irrigation infrastructure; Access to island and site including jetty construction; Operational plan including transport, pest control, water quality monitoring; Project management: Include communication of construction details, progress, target dates and duration of works, construction/operation/closure of labor camps, access to site, safety, equipment and material storage, water supply, waste management from construction operations, power and fuel supply. Land preparation and storage facility construction Irrigation infrastructure; Storage and packaging facilities; Equipment required for operational phase; Access to facility via land.
Environmental Protection Agency ީސްނެޖެއ ްނަޝްކެޓޮރްޕ ްލަޓްނަމަރަޔަވްނެއ
rd ގްރީން ބިލްޑިންގް، 3ވަނަ ފަންގިފިލާ، ހަނދުވަރީ ހިނގުން Green Building, 3 Floor, HandhuvareeHingun މާލެ، ދިވެހިރާއްޖެ، Male', Rep. of Maldives, 20392 20392 Tel: [+960] 333 5949 [+960] 333 5951 :ުނޯފްލެޓ Email: [email protected] : ްލިއެމީއ Fax: [+960] 333 5953 : ްސްކެފ : 1 of 5 Website: www.epa.gov.mv : ްޓިއަސްބެވ
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ީސްނެޖެއ ްނަޝްކެޓޮރްޕ ްލަޓްނަމަރަޔަވްނެއ Environmental Protection Agency
Agricultural fields and products Site map showing planned agricultural fields and facilities; Type of crops Planned agricultural products Fertilizers and pesticides planned to be used Agricultural livestock Site map showing planned agricultural livestock facilities; Type of livestock and products Aquaculture Facilities Site map showing planned Aquaculture facilities; Types of farmed species Planned products Water supply plan A: ground water usage Pump installation system, methodology; Water requirements including changes with season and type of crop; Emergency supply plan. Water supply plan B: desalination plant Location, desalination capacity, technology and water quality monitoring system; Pipeline construction methods, scheduling and drawings; Location, justification for the location of the water intake and brine outfall pipelines; Emergency water supply plan. Power supply plant and oil storage Location and size of generators and facility; Fuel transportation technique and volume required; Details of Fuel storage tank; Cooling water system including cooling pipe location (if any) and justification; Emergency supply; Low energy consumption ventures and awareness. Waste management plan Composting methodology if practiced; Incineration construction and operational plan.
Task 2. Description of the environment – Assemble, evaluate and present the environmental baseline study/data regarding the study area and timing of the project (e.g. monsoon season). Identify baseline data gaps and identify studies and the level of detail to be carried out by consultant. Consideration of likely monitoring requirements should be borne in mind during survey planning, so that data collected is suitable for use as a baseline. As such all baseline data must be presented in such a way that they will be usefully applied to future monitoring. The report should outline detailed methodology of data collection utilized.
All data must be collected as per the requirements of the EPA Data Collection Guideline (published on www.epa.gov.mv). The report should outline detailed methodology of data collection utilized.
The baseline data will be collected before construction and from at least two benchmarks. All survey locations shall be referenced with Geographic Positioning System (GPS) including water sampling points, reef transects, vegetation transects and manta tows sites for posterior data comparison. Information should be divided into the categories shown below:
Climate Temperature, rainfall, wind, waves (including extreme conditions)
Environmental Protection Agency ީސްނެޖެއ ްނަޝްކެޓޮރްޕ ްލަޓްނަމަރަޔަވްނެއ
rd ގްރީން ބިލްޑިންގް، 3ވަނަ ފަންގިފިލާ، ހަނދުވަރީ ހިނގުން Green Building, 3 Floor, HandhuvareeHingun މާލެ، ދިވެހިރާއްޖެ، Male', Rep. of Maldives, 20392 20392 Tel: [+960] 333 5949 [+960] 333 5951 :ުނޯފްލެޓ Email: [email protected] : ްލިއެމީއ Fax: [+960] 333 5953 : ްސްކެފ : 2 of 5 Website: www.epa.gov.mv : ްޓިއަސްބެވ
c
ީސްނެޖެއ ްނަޝްކެޓޮރްޕ ްލަޓްނަމަރަޔަވްނެއ Environmental Protection Agency
Risk of storm events; Physical parameters (use maps where appropriate) Tidal ranges and tidal currents; Wave climate and wave induced currents; Wind induced (seasonal) currents; Bathymetry (bottom morphology) (use maps) at all dredging and reclamation locations; (Seasonal) patterns of coastal erosion and accretion (shoreline, vegetation line and beach profiles from around the island), and Characteristics of seabed sediments to assess direct habitat destruction and turbidity impacts during construction; Ground water quality assessment parameters from 5 locations for parameters; Temperature, pH, salinity, ammonia, phosphate, sulphate, total coliforms and faecal coliforms. Sea water quality measuring these parameters: temperature, pH, salinity, turbidity, sedimentation rate, phosphate, nitrate, ammonia, sulphate, and BOD.
Biological parameters: Land-water run-off could affect the marine environment: Identify marine protected areas (MPAs) and sensitive sites such as breeding or nursery grounds for protected or endangered species (e.g. coral reefs, spawning fish sites, nurseries for crustaceans or specific sites for marine mammals, sharks and turtles). Include description of commercial species, species with potential to become nuisances or vector. Benthic and fish community monitoring around the island (this shall include fish census data and coral cover data from around the island); Socio-economic environment Accessibility for commuting workers from neighbouring islands; Demography: total population, sex ratio, density, growth and pressure on land and marine resources; Income situation and distribution Economic activities of both men and women (e.g. fisheries, home gardening, fish processing, employment in industry, government); Seasonal changes in activities; Land use planning, natural resource use and zoning of activities at sea; Accessibility and (public) transport to other island; Services quality and accessibility if in inhabited island (water supply, waste/water disposal, energy supply, social services like health and education); Hazard vulnerability: Vulnerability of area to flooding and storm surge.
Absence of facilities in the country to carry out the water quality tests will not exempt the proponent from the obligation to provide necessary data. The report should outline the detailed methodology of data collection utilized to describe the existing environment.
Task 3. Legislative and regulatory considerations – Identify the pertinent legislation, regulations and standards, and environmental policies that are relevant and applicable to the proposed project, and identify the appropriate authority jurisdictions that will specifically apply to the project. Legal requirements that should be covered includes but is not limited to: If it the project is focussed on an uninhabited island, the Law of Leased Islands ought to be consulted; All pesticides and fertilizers ought to be approved by the Ministry of Fisheries and Agriculture; Approval from Ministry of Fisheries and Agriculture; Fire safety approval from MNDF.
Environmental Protection Agency ީސްނެޖެއ ްނަޝްކެޓޮރްޕ ްލަޓްނަމަރަޔަވްނެއ
rd ގްރީން ބިލްޑިންގް، 3ވަނަ ފަންގިފިލާ، ހަނދުވަރީ ހިނގުން Green Building, 3 Floor, HandhuvareeHingun މާލެ، ދިވެހިރާއްޖެ، Male', Rep. of Maldives, 20392 20392 Tel: [+960] 333 5949 [+960] 333 5951 :ުނޯފްލެޓ Email: [email protected] : ްލިއެމީއ Fax: [+960] 333 5953 : ްސްކެފ : 3 of 5 Website: www.epa.gov.mv : ްޓިއަސްބެވ
c
ީސްނެޖެއ ްނަޝްކެޓޮރްޕ ްލަޓްނަމަރަޔަވްނެއ Environmental Protection Agency
Task 4. Potential impacts (environmental and socio-cultural) of proposed project, incl. all stages – The EIA report should identify all the impacts, direct and indirect, during and after construction, and evaluate the magnitude and significance of each. Particular attention shall be given to impacts associated with the following:
Impacts on the natural environment Water run-off impacts from pesticides and fertilizers on marine environment: include changes in seawater quality assessments especially water turbidity and sedimentation and changes in benthic and fish community structures Impacts on ground water quality; Impacts on unique or threatened habitats or species (coral reefs, sea turtles etc.), and Impacts on landscape integrity/scenery.
Impacts on the socio-economic environment Impacts on food prices and availability; Impacts on island employment, income and economy diversification; Impacts of increased demands on natural resources and services especially water supply, land availability, waste management, energy supply, harbour capacity; Level of protection against hazards like sea level rise, storm surges, etc. Impact equity (economic activities, employment, income); Social destabilization of the island community.
Construction related hazards and risks Pollution of the natural environment (e.g. oil spills, discharge of untreated waste water and solid waste, including construction waste); Risk of accidents and pollution on workers and local population, and Impacts on social values, norms and belief due to presence of workers of dredging company on local population.
The methods used to identify the significance of the impacts shall be outlined. One or more of the following methods must be utilized in determining impacts; checklists, matrices, overlays, networks, expert systems and professional judgment. Justification must be provided to the selected methodologies. The report should outline the uncertainties in impact prediction and also outline all positive and negative/short and long-term impacts. Identify impacts that are cumulative and unavoidable. Use interaction matrices (E.g. Leopold Matrix) to assess the magnitude and significance of the impacts.
Task 5. Alternatives to proposed project – Describe alternatives including the “no action option” should be presented. Determine the best practical environmental options. Alternatives examined for the proposed project that would achieve the same objective including the “no action alternative”. This should include irrigation technologies, taking into account environmental, social and economic factors. All alternatives must be compared according to international standards and commonly accepted standards as much as possible. The comparison should yield the preferred alternative for implementation. Mitigation options should be specified for each component of the proposed project.
Task 6. Mitigation and management of negative impacts – Identify possible measures to prevent or reduce significant negative impacts to acceptable levels. These will include both environmental and socio-economic mitigation measures with particular attention paid to sedimentation control and future changes in coastal processes. Measures for both construction and operation phase shall be identified. Cost the mitigation measures, equipment and resources required to implement those measures. The confirmation of commitment of the developer to implement the proposed mitigation measures shall also be included. An Environmental management plan for the proposed project, identifying responsible persons, their duties and commitments shall also be given. In cases where impacts are unavoidable arrangements to compensate for the environmental effect shall be given.
Task 7. Development of monitoring plan - Identify the critical issues requiring monitoring to ensure compliance to mitigation measures and present impact management and monitoring plan for ground water and sea water quality as
Environmental Protection Agency ީސްނެޖެއ ްނަޝްކެޓޮރްޕ ްލަޓްނަމަރަޔަވްނެއ
rd ގްރީން ބިލްޑިންގް، 3ވަނަ ފަންގިފިލާ، ހަނދުވަރީ ހިނގުން Green Building, 3 Floor, HandhuvareeHingun މާލެ، ދިވެހިރާއްޖެ، Male', Rep. of Maldives, 20392 20392 Tel: [+960] 333 5949 [+960] 333 5951 :ުނޯފްލެޓ Email: [email protected] : ްލިއެމީއ Fax: [+960] 333 5953 : ްސްކެފ : 4 of 5 Website: www.epa.gov.mv : ްޓިއަސްބެވ
c
ީސްނެޖެއ ްނަޝްކެޓޮރްޕ ްލަޓްނަމަރަޔަވްނެއ Environmental Protection Agency
well as marine ecosystem monitoring due to land water run-off. Coastal erosion should be monitored especially if the crops are close to the vegetation line. Ecological monitoring will be submitted to the EPA to evaluate the damages during construction, after project completion and every three months thereafter, up to one year and then on a yearly basis for five years after. The baseline study described in task 2 of section 2 of this document is required for data comparison. Detail of the monitoring program including the physical and biological parameters for monitoring, cost commitment from responsible person to conduct monitoring in the form of a commitment letter, detailed reporting scheduling, costs and methods of undertaking the monitoring program must be provided.
Task 8. Stakeholder consultation, Inter-Agency coordination and public/NGO participation) – Identify appropriate mechanisms for providing information on the development proposal and its progress to all stakeholders. Stakeholder consultation should include the following: Ministry of Fisheries and Agriculture, Marine Research Centre, R.Hulhudhuhfaaru council, Raa atoll council and Maldives Energy Authority. The EIA report should include a list of people/groups consulted, their contact details and summary of the major outcomes. The methodology adopted for consultation should be provided. Appropriate notice should be given to all stakeholders prior to consultation.
Presentation- The environmental impact assessment report, to be presented in digital format, will be concise and focus on significant environmental issues. It will contain the findings, conclusions and recommended actions supported by summaries of the data collected and citations f or any references used in interpreting those data. The environmental assessment report will be organized according to, but not necessarily limited by, the outline given in the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations 2012 and subsequent amendments.
Timeframe for submitting the EIA report – The developer must submit the completed EIA report within 6 months from the date of this Term of Reference.
05/09/2018
Environmental Protection Agency ީސްނެޖެއ ްނަޝްކެޓޮރްޕ ްލަޓްނަމަރަޔަވްނެއ
rd ގްރީން ބިލްޑިންގް، 3ވަނަ ފަންގިފިލާ، ހަނދުވަރީ ހިނގުން Green Building, 3 Floor, HandhuvareeHingun މާލެ، ދިވެހިރާއްޖެ، Male', Rep. of Maldives, 20392 20392 Tel: [+960] 333 5949 [+960] 333 5951 :ުނޯފްލެޓ Email: [email protected] : ްލިއެމީއ Fax: [+960] 333 5953 : ްސްކެފ : 5 of 5 Website: www.epa.gov.mv : ްޓިއަސްބެވ
EIA for the Proposed Agricultural Development Project in Gaaundoodhoo Island, Raa Atoll
APPENDIX B – Site Plan
Prepared by: CDE Consulting Page|177 01
05 Legend 06 07 01 Access Jetty / Service Jetty 03 12 08 02 Hatchery Complex 0115 03 Training & Experience Centre 09 04 Student Accommodation 04 10 13 11 14 05 Senior Staff Accommodation 06 Main Administration Building 16 07 Junior Staff Accommodation 08 Mess Room
Expansion Zone 09 Mosque 17 to double production 10 Recreation Area 02 11 Warehouses 12 Utilities (Power,Sewage,RO) 13 Post-Harvest Production Facility 14 Stores (Fertilizer,Pesticides,Tools) Expansion Zone 18 Expansion Zone 0115 Fuel / Water Storage to double production to double production 16 Waste Area 17 Greenhouses 18 Agricultural Plots (100ft x 100ft each) Water Collection Tanks 01 Roads
Expansion Zone *Expansion zones shaded in white 2 Expansion Zone 60,000ft 90,000ft2
Gaaundoodhoo Island, Raa Atoll feet Fisheries & Agricultural Concept Plan 100 300 500 01
0115 04 19 03 Legend 04 12 06 01 Access Jetty / Service Jetty 02 Hatchery Complex 03 Training & Experience Centre 08 14 04 Student Accommodation 10 05 Senior Staff Accommodation 05 02 06 Main Administration Building 18 09 07 Junior Staff Accommodation Expansion Zone 17 08 Mess Room to double production 07 Expansion Zone Expansion Zone 09 Mosque to double production to double production 10 Recreation Area 13 11 Warehouses 12 Utilities (Power,Sewage,RO) Expansion Zone for livestock production 13 Post-Harvest Production Facility 14 Stores (Fertilizer,Pesticides,Tools) 11 0115 Fuel / Water Storage 16 Waste Area 17 Greenhouses 18 Agricultural Plots (100ft x 100ft each) Water Collection Tanks 20 16 Roads *Expansion zones shaded in white
19 Old Cemetery 20 Marshy Area
Gaaundoodhoo Island, Raa Atoll feet 100 300 500 Fisheries & Agricultural Concept Plan (revision: Oct 2018) EIA for the Proposed Agricultural Development Project in Gaaundoodhoo Island, Raa Atoll
APPENDIX C – Approvals
Prepared by: CDE Consulting Page|178
EIA for the Proposed Agricultural Development Project in Gaaundoodhoo Island, Raa Atoll
APPENDIX D – Survey Locations
Prepared by: CDE Consulting Page|179 73°0'45"E 73°0'50"E 73°0'55"E 73°1'0"E 73°1'5"E
C1
! ! !
SW2 ! A ! !
!
.! T2 ! Legend
! !
! !
! !
! !
!
! Beach Profiles
! ! 5°45'5"N
! ! 5°45'5"N ! P3 !O Soil Profiles P4 P2
! SW3 GW1 ! Marine_Transects
! !.
#0 ! !
! !
P5 ! #0 N5 T3 Ground Water Samples ! S1 ! GW2 .! ! !
!
! ! #0 O! ! .! Noise
P1 ! C2 ! A .! Marine Water Samples P6 !!! Timed Swims 5°45'0"N
GW4 5°45'0"N N3 ! .! #0 S2 A Currents #0GW3 O! P8 High Tide Line 2018
P7 Vegetation Line 2018 Gaaundoodhoo Low Tide Line 2018
! !
! ! SW1 ! ! Reef Line ! N4
! ! P9 C4 .! ! ! .!
! N1 ! !
! ! ! A ! ! T1 .
! GW5 ! ! N2
! #0.! 5°44'55"N 5°44'55"N µ Soil Profile Site ID X Y S1 73.01442 5.748762 S2 73.01525 5.750563 Marine Water Samples Meters Site ID X Y Beach Profiles SW1 73.01283 5.74887 0 25 50 100 150 SW2 73.01566 5.751711 Site ID X Y P1 73.01739 5.750377 SW4 5°44'50"N SW3 73.01796 5.75094 Noise .! 5°44'50"N SW4 73.01806 5.747132 P2 73.01697 5.751026 Gaaundoodhoo P3 73.01605 5.750983 Point_ID X Y Ground Water Sample C3 Currents Raa Atoll P4 73.01498 5.750971 N1 73.0174 5.748746 SiteID X Y ! Site ID X Y A Marine Transects P5 73.01431 5.750621 N2 73.01579 5.748608 GW1 73.01432 5.748776 Survey Locations C1 73.01611 5.751867 P6 73.01402 5.750122 GW2 73.01515 5.750571 N3 73.01485 5.74983 Site_ID X_Start Y_Start X_Finish Y_FinishPROJECTION: Transverse Mercator (UTM Zone 43 N); HORIZONTAL DATUM: WGS84;Island Shape_Length Project C2 73.01817 5.750381 P7 73.01368 5.749286 GW3 73.01737 5.749232 VERTICAL DATUM: Mean Sea Level (2018) - Male' T1 73.01286 5.748799 73.0131 5.748472 R GaaundoodhooAirport Tide Gauge 44.962289
APPENDIX E – Beach Profiles
Prepared by: CDE Consulting Page|180 P1 2
1.5
1
0.5
0 0 5 10 15 20 25 30
Height [m] -0.5
-1
-1.5
-2 Distance [m]
P2 2
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0.5 Height [m] 0 0 5 10 15 20 25 30 -0.5
-1 Distance [m]
P3 2
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0 Height [m] 0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 -0.5
-1
-1.5 Distance [m]
P4 1.5
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0 Height [m] 0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18
-0.5
-1 distance [m]
P5 2
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0 Height [m] 0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 -0.5
-1
-1.5 distance [m]
P6 2.5
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P7 3
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0 0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 -0.5 Distance [m]
P8 2
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-1
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P9 2
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EIA for the Proposed Agricultural Development Project in Gaaundoodhoo Island, Raa Atoll
APPENDIX F – Water Quality Results
Prepared by: CDE Consulting Page|181
EIA for the Proposed Agricultural Development Project in Gaaundoodhoo Island, Raa Atoll
APPENDIX G – Bathymetry and Shorelines
Prepared by: CDE Consulting Page|182 73°0'56"E 73°0'57"E 73°0'58"E 73°0'59"E 73°1'0"E 5°45'7"N 5°45'7"N
-22
-20 -19 -18 -21 -16 -17 -15 Legend -14 -12 1m contours -16 -8 High Tide Line 2018 -11 -10 Vegetation Line 2018 -7 -5 5°45'6"N
5°45'6"N Low Tide Line 2018 -4 -4 -3 Area Not Surveyed -3 Area Not Surveyed Depth in meters -2 Area Not Surveyed -28.8 -20
-19.9 -15
-14.9 -10 -1 -9.9 -5
-4.9 -4
-3.9 -3
5°45'5"N -2.9 -2 5°45'5"N
-1.9 -1
-0.9 -0
Reef Line 5°45'4"N 5°45'4"N µ
Meters
0 5 10 20 30
Gaaundoodhoo, Raa Atoll Bathymetry
PROJECTION: Transverse Mercator (UTM Zone 43 N); HORIZONTAL DATUM: WGS84; VERTICAL DATUM: Mean Sea Level (2018) - Male' Airport Tide Gauge All features based on GPS surveys (September 2018) 5°45'3"N
5°45'3"N Map version 10-10-2018
Surveyed and Prepared by: CDE Surveying, Maldives
73°0'56"E 73°0'57"E 73°0'58"E 73°0'59"E 73°1'0"E 73°1'1"E 73°1'2"E 73°1'3"E 73°1'4"E 73°1'5"E
5°45'4"N Legend 5°45'4"N
Area Not Surveyed -7 -15 1m contours
-4 -5 High Tide Line 2018
Vegetation Line 2018
-2 Low Tide Line 2018
-6 -5 Area Not Surveyed Depth in meters -18 -9 -26.4 -20 -15 -19.9 -15
-4 -14.9 -10 5°45'3"N
-2 5°45'3"N -3 -8 -9.9 -5
-6
-3 -4.9 -4
-3.9 -3
-2 -20 -2.9 -2 -16
-7 -12 -1.9 -1
-10
-15 -0.9 -0
Reef Line -1 5°45'2"N 5°45'2"N µ
Area Not Surveyed Meters 0 4.5 9 18 27
Gaaundoodhoo, Raa Atoll 5°45'1"N 5°45'1"N Bathymetry
PROJECTION: Transverse Mercator (UTM Zone 43 N); HORIZONTAL DATUM: WGS84; VERTICAL DATUM: Mean Sea Level (2018) - Male' Airport Tide Gauge All features based on GPS surveys (September 2018) Map version 10-10-2018
Surveyed and Prepared by: CDE Surveying, Maldives
73°1'1"E 73°1'2"E 73°1'3"E 73°1'4"E 73°1'5"E
EIA for the Proposed Agricultural Development Project in Gaaundoodhoo Island, Raa Atoll
APPENDIX H – Vegetation Classification
Prepared by: CDE Consulting Page|183
EIA for the Proposed Agricultural Development Project in Gaaundoodhoo Island, Raa Atoll
APPENDIX I – CV’s of Consultants
Prepared by: CDE Consulting Page|184 Ahmed Shaig Phone: (+960) 77 88 758 [email protected]
Personal Details Date of Birth: 19/02/1976 Nationality: Maldivian Gender: Male Marital Status: Married Permanent Address: Maldives Present Address: M. Muleege, Orchid Magu, Male’, Maldives.
Education PhD, Environmental Science, 2009 James Cook University, Townsville, Australia
Research degree on ‘Settlement Planning for Natural Hazard Resilience in Small Island States: The Population and Development Consolidation Approach’
BSc Land and Spatial Information Studies/Information Science. (double major), 1999-2001 University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
Diploma in project planning, implementation, monitoring and evaluation, 1995 ILO training Centre, Turin, Italy
Employment History
Director, Environmental Services 2008 to present CDE Consulting Supervisor: Dr. Simad Saeed Republic of Maldives Phone: +(960) 7777445 Head of environmental wing
Assistant Under-secretary, Spatial Planning 2002-2004 Ministry of Planning and National Development Supervisor: Hon. Hamdun Hameed Republic of Maldives Phone: +(960) 332-3919 Head of Spatial Planning Unit. Relevant Tasks include: ♦ Oversee environment related projects and application of environmental guidelines for planned projects. ♦ Plan, implement and oversee the development of a National GIS; ♦ Aid/facilitate/oversee urban planning, housing, land use planning, natural resource planning and environment related projects; Provide assistance in project planning (includes urban and regional planning, natural resources planning)
Project Manager, National Digital Mapping Project 2005 (8 months) Ministry of Planning and National Development Supervisor: Hon. Hamdun Hameed Republic of Maldives Phone: +(960) 332-3919 ♦ Project involved aerial photography and satellite imagery of entire Maldives, ground surveying of key settlements, digital conversion of data and setting up a Mapping Unit.
Assistant Planning Officer/Planning Officer 1994-1999 Ministry of Planning and National Development Supervisor: Mr. Mohamed Hunaif Republic of Maldives Phone +(960) 331-3040 Relevant tasks involved: ♦ Assisting in the National GIS Development Programme (Junior GIS developer) ♦ Facilitate urban planning, housing, land use planning, natural resource planning and environment related projects.
Ahmed Shaig page 1
Experience in Consultancy
. September 2002: Member of the team appointed for environmental surveying and carrying capacity assessment of islands for tourism development in the southern atolls of Maldives for Ministry of Tourism Maldives. . October 2002: Developed the Census GIS for United National Population Fund . December 2002: Developed the Maldives Protected Areas Systems GIS for Maldives Home Affairs Housing and Environment. . February 2003: Participated in the preparation of Royal Island and Spa Resort Annual Environmental Monitoring Report for Royal Island and Spa. . April 2003: Member of the team selected for developing town plans for urban centres in Northern and Southern Regional Development Zones, looking specifically into environmental control measures, for Ministry of Planning and National Development. . April 2003: Participated in the preparation of Environmental Impact Statement for Coastal Modifications on Rihiveli, South Malé Atoll, Maldives. . April 2003: Participated in the surveying and preparation of Environmental Impact Statement for the proposed coastal improvements to address coastal erosion concerns on Royal Island Spa Resort, Baa Atoll, Maldives. . May 2003: Participated in the bathymetry survey and preparation of Initial Environmental Examination for Deepening of Existing Entrance Channel to Service Jetty, Soneva Gili Resort and Spa, North Malé Atoll, Maldives . May 2003: Participated in the preparation of Initial Environmental Examination for development of an access channel into the natural inner lagoon (Vilu) of Mayafushi resort, North Ari Atoll. . May 2003: Participated in the preparation of Environmental Impact Assessment for Landaa Giraavaru Pvt. Ltd. for the development of a Four Season’s Tourist Resort on the island of Landaa Giraavaru in Baa Atoll, Maldives. . June 2003: Participated in survey and preparation of Initial Environmental Examination for the Development of a Mooring Area and Associated Beach Replenishment in, Boduhithi Club, North Malé Atoll, Maldives. . July 2003: Participated in the surveying and preparation of Initial Environmental Examination for Short- term and Long-term Shore Protection Measures at Alimatha Tourist Resort, Vaavu Atoll, Maldives. . July 2003: Conducted shoreline and vegetation line of Alimatha Tourist Resort, Vaavu Atoll, Maldives. . July 2003: Participated in the surveying for Initial Environmental Examination for Short-term and Long- term Shore Protection Measures at Dhiggiri Tourist Resort, Vaavu Atoll, Maldives. . July 2003: Participated in conducting and preparation of Fun Island Resort Annual Environmental Monitoring Report. . July 2003: Participated in conducting and preparation of Sun Island Resort Annual Environmental Monitoring Report. . July 2003: Participated in conducting and preparation of Holiday Island Resort Annual Environmental Monitoring Report. . August 2003: Developed the Initial Environmental Examination for the construction of Sun Decks along the southern beach of Kudarah Island Resort. . September 2003: Participated in surveying and preparation of Fonaddoo Environmental Impact Assessment Report for the development of fisheries complex, Fonaddoo, Maldives. . October 2003: Participated in surveying and preparation of Kuda Rah Erosion Study and recommendations for shore protection and erosion prevention . November 2003: Conducted vegetation and shoreline survey of Dhonveli Beach and Spa and Four Seasons Report for the Boundary Delineation between the two islands. . December 2003: Contributed to the Landuse Planning Guidelines of Maldives (environmental aspects) for Ministry of Housing and Urban Development. . December 2003: Contributed to the Development of a Building Code of Maldives for Ministry of Housing and Urban Development. . January 2004: Co-author to the Environmental Guidelines for the Development of Resort Islands in Maldives, Ministry of Tourism. . February 2004: Developed the Baa Atoll Spatial Development Plan for Ministry of Planning and National Development.
Ahmed Shaig page 2
. April-July 2004: Participated in the preparation of the Environmental aspects of the 8 bid proposals for resort Development for various proponents. . November 2005: Participated in the preparation of EIA for L.Gan Resettlement Project for Ministry of Housing. . December 2005: Participated in the surveying and preparation of EIA for Gn Fuvahmulaku Tourist Hotel Development . November 2005: Developed a GIS for strategic planning to select islands for tourism development for Ministry of Tourism. . January 2006: Local consultant for the Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) of Maldives Regional Development Plan, for AGRIFOR Consult Consortium, Belgium. . June 2006: Developed the Baa Atoll Resource Management GIS for Ministry of Environment and Energy. . August 2006: Consultant to the Integrated Climate Change System (ICCS) project – Assessment of vulnerability of Maldives Islands and Beaches to climate change . September 2006: Consultant to the ICCS project – Assessment of vulnerability of Maldives Infrastructure to climate change . November 2006: Consultant to the preparation of National Adaptation Programme of Action in Maldives for Ministry of Environment. . December 2006: Environmental Consultant to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Project: Disaster Risk Assessment of Selected nine Safe Islands in Maldives. . April 2007: Prepared the Coastal Erosion Assessment and Management Report for Ga.Meradhoo Island. . May 2007: Participated in the preparation of EIA for N. Randheli Resort Development Project, I&T Management group. . June 2007: Participated in the preparation of Millennium Development Goals, Maldives Country Report. . October 2007: Natural Hazard Assessment consultant to the UNDP Project: Disaster Risk Assessment of Selected Safe Islands in Maldives. . November 2007: Prepared the EIA for proposed coastal protection, beach replenishment and access improvement of Elaa, Thaa Atoll, for Mr Abbas Mohamed, H. Merry Rose. . May 2009: Participated in the preparation of EIA for sand sourcing and beach replenishment project of Viligilli Island, Addu Atoll, for Shangri-La at Viligilli.. . April 2009: Participated in the preparation of EIA for N. Maafaru Airport Development Project for Noonu Hotels Pvt Ltd. . May 2009: Participated in the preparation of EIA for resort development in Huvandhumaavattaru, Noonu Atoll . June 2009: Prepared a status of the environment report Randheli Island, Noonu Atoll. . July 2009: Prepared the Environmental EIA for harbour development in Fiyoari, Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll. . July 2009: Participated in the preparation of EIA for Jetty and arrival lounge development project in Gan, Addu Atoll, for Island Aviation Services Private Limited. . July 2009: Team Leader for the socio-economic risk assessment of Selected Safe Islands in Maldives. . August 2009: Coastal erosion data synthesis for selected islands of Maldives, for World Bank Maldives Environmental Management Project. . September 2009: Prepared the beach management plan and development control measures for Reethibeach Island Resort, Baa Atoll. . September 2009: Participated in the preparation of EIA for agricultural island development in Felivaru, Noonu Atoll, for Fantasy Private Limited. . September 2009: Consultant to review the safer islands programme and cost benefit study of mitigation measures in three islands in the Maldives for UNDP. . October 2009: Consultant to the Maldives Environmental Management Project for waste management technical assistance for World Bank. . December 2009: Environmental consultant for advising on resort development and development control measures in Randheli Island, Noonu Atoll. . January 2010: Prepared the beach management plan and development control measures for Shangri-La Island Resort, Addu Atoll. . January 2010: Consultant to the Atoll Ecosystem Conservation project conservation component defining conservation areas and development controls. . February 2010: Prepared the environmental audit of Thunbafushi Island, Kaafu Atoll, for Champa Brothers Private Limited.
Ahmed Shaig page 3
. March 2010: Prepared the beach management plan and development control for Herathera Island Resort, Addu Atoll. . March 2010: Lead author in the preparation of EIA for power plant upgrading project in Palm Beach Island in Lhaviyani Atoll. . April 2010: Lead author in the preparation of EIA for Seagrass removal and beach replenishment project in Olhuveli Island Resort and Spa, Kaafu Atoll. . April 2010: Prepared an EIA addendum for resort development in Gaakoshibee Island, Shaviyani Atoll. . May 2010: Consultant to undertake island environmental scoping studies in 30 islands in North Maldives to determine islands with resort development potential for GMR Group of India. . May 2010: Lead author in the preparation of EIA for harbour development project in Madidhoo Island, Shaviyani Atoll. . June 2010: Lead author in the preparation of EIA for deep piling project in Olhuveli Island Resort and Spa, Kaafu Atoll. . July 2010: Lead author in the preparation of EIA for the development of an aquaculture site in Kanduoigiri, Kaafu Atoll. . July 2010: Environmental planning consultant for Shangri-La at Viligilli Maldives, Addu Atoll. . July 2010: Environmental planning consultant to the Addu Land Use Planning project (including defining development controls) in Addu Atoll Maldives for South Province Office. . August 2010: Environmental Consultant for the Atoll Ecosystem Conservation Project to declare Baa Atoll as a UNESCO Biosphere reserve. . September 2010: Lead author in the EIA for Seagrass removal and beach replenishment project in Herathera Island, Addu Atoll. . September 2010: Lead author in the EIA for resort redevelopment in Vilamendhoo Island Resort, Ari Atoll. . September 2010: Lead author in the preparation of EIA for Gulhifalhu land reclamation project in Gulhifalhu, Male’ Atoll, for Capital Investment and Finance Limited, UK. . September 2010: Participated in the preparation of EIA for sewerage system development project in Miladhoo, Noonu Atoll. . October 2010: Consultant to undertake the coastal adaptation survey of 40 islands in Maldives for Ministry of Housing and Environment. . November 2010: Environmental consultant for advising on resort development and development control measures in Maamigili Island, Raa Atoll . January 2011: Lead author in the preparation of EIA for sewerage and water system development project in Hithadhoo Island, Addu City for Bi-water International Private Limited. . February 2011: Lead author in the preparation of EIA for sewerage and water system development project in Maradhoo Island, Addu City for Bi-water International Private Limited. . March 2011: Lead author in the preparation of EIA for sewerage and water system development project in Feydhoo Island, Addu City for Bi-water International Private Limited. . April 2011: Lead author in the preparation of EIA for sewerage and water system development project in Maradhoo-Feydhoo Island, Addu City for Bi-water International Private Limited. . May 2012: Coastal erosion mitigation assessment and planning for Six Senses Laamu, Laamu Atoll . January 2012: Lead author in the preparation of EIA for sewerage and water system development project in Fuvahmulah Island, Addu City for Bi-water International Private Limited. . February 2012: Coastal erosion mitigation assessment and planning for Fushivelavaru Island . March 2012: EIA for the proposed resort redevelopment project in Conrad Rangali Island for Champa and Crown Resorts . March 2012: EIA for the proposed resort redevelopment project in Gasfinolhu Island Resort, Champa and Crown Resorts . May 2012: Environmental consultant for advising on resort development and development control measures in Gasfinolhu Island, Male’ Atoll . June 2012: Environmental consultant for advising on resort development and development control measures in Nakachchaa Huraa Island, Male’ Atoll . April 2012: Member of the consultant team that prepared the Tourism Opinion and Profile Survey 2011, Ministry of Tourism. . October 2012: Environmental consultant to the preparation of 4th Tourism Master plan for Ministry of Tourism, Maldives. . November 2013: Environmental consultant for advising on land reclamation, resort development and development control measures in Dhiffushi Island Reef, Male’ Atoll.
Ahmed Shaig page 4 . January 2013: Environmental consultant for advising on resort development and development control measures in Hankede Island, Addu Atoll . January 2013: Environmental consultant for advising on resort development and development control measures in Hankede Island, Addu Atoll June 2013: Local Environment consultant to the WCCM project, HIDRIA and Aquatica, Spain. . June 2015: Environmental consultant for Nasandhura Palace Hotel Redevelopment EIA, 15-storey building, Male'City . June 2015: Environmental consultant for Male-Hulhule Bridge, Borehole Drilling EIA, Male' City . July 2015: Environmental consultant for Male-Hulhule Bridge EIA, Male' City . September 2015: Environmental consultant for Development of Tertiary Hospital in Hulhumale . July 2015: Environmental consultant for Development of 9-Storey Building for ADK, Male'City
Ahmed Shaig page 5
Membership of Professional Bodies . Member of Building Code Committee, Maldives . Member of Commission on Sustainable development . Member of the Technical Committee for Developing Spatial Plans for conducting tourism related activities in Ari Atoll. . Member of Climate Advisory Council to the President of Maldives 2009- to present. . Registered EIA Consultant in Maldives Environment Protection Agency roster.
Major Publications
SHAIG, A. (2001) "An Overview of Web Based Geographic Information Systems". In Proceedings: Thirteenth Annual Colloquium of the Spatial Information Research Centre. P.A. Whigham (ed). 2 - 5 Dec, Dunedin, New Zealand. University of Otago, pp.255-264.
SHAIG, A. (2006). Climate Change Vulnerability and Adaptation Assessment of the Coastal Infrastructure of Maldives. Technical Paper submitted to Maldives National Adaptation Plan of Action for Climate Change. Ministry of Environment, Energy and Water, Male', Maldives.
SHAIG, A. (2006). Climate Change Vulnerability and Adaptation Assessment of the Land and Beaches of Maldives. Technical Paper submitted to Maldives National Adaptation Plan of Action for Climate Change. Ministry of Environment, Energy and Water, Male', Maldives.
SHAIG, A. (2007) Land Study of Maldives, 2006. Ministry of Planning and National Development, Male’ Maldives.
SHAIG, A. and Aslam, M (2007) Detailed Island Risk Assessment Maldives Volume I to Volume IV – Natural Hazard Assessment (Final Draft). UNDP, Male’ Maldives
SHAIG, A. (2007) Detailed Island Risk Assessment Maldives Volume I to Volume IV – Environmental Vulnerability Assessment (Final Draft). UNDP, Male’ Maldives.
Academic Achievements
2001 Critchlow Associates Prize in Surveying, New Zealand. Prize awarded annually by University council for the highest standard of Achievement in Spatial Information Studies in University of Otago. 1994 Certificate for best results in General Certificate of Examinations, Advanced Level. Science Education Centre, Male’, Maldives
References
Hamdun Hameed David King, Dr. Member of Parliament Associate Proffessor Male’, Maldives James Cook University Tel: (+960) 3323414 Townsville, QLD,Australia, 4811 [email protected] Tel: (+61) 747 81 4441 ,Fax: (+61) 747 81 5581 Email: [email protected] Simad Saeed, Dr Managing Director, Peter Valentine CDE Consulting Head of School, TESAG Department Male’, Maldives James Cook University Tel: +960 777 7445 Townsville, QLD,Australia, 4811 Email: [email protected] Tel: (+61) 747 81 4441 ,Fax: (+61) 747 81 5581 Email: [email protected]
Ahmed Shaig page 6
Clarification
I, the undersigned, certify that to the best of my knowledge and belief, this CV correctly describes myself, my qualifications and my experience. I understand that any willful misstatement described herein may lead to my disqualification or dismissal, if engaged.
Signature Date: 15 July 2013
Ahmed Shaig page 7 Ali Nishaman Nizar Hulhumalé Flat # 44-G02, Hulhumalé 06th March 1988 (00) 960 778 5767 [email protected]
A strategic and creative thinker who has effective communication and writing skills, and is ready and willing to use my skills and knowledge to add significant value to aid in your organization’s development and enhance its values.
EDUCATION
Cyprus Forestry College (2006 - 2008) Adv. Diploma in Forestry
Center for Higher Secondary Education (2004 - 2006) Edexcel - G.C.E. A’levels (Statistics, Business, Accounts) Cambridge - Certificate in Advanced English
Majeedhiyya School (2001 - 2003) Cambridge - O’levels (Mathematics, Economics, Commerce, English, Accounts)
EXPERIENCE
Terrestrial Environment Consultant – CDE Consulting, (July 13 – Present) Provides technical assistance to various national and international projects, specifically providing input in areas such as; wetlands, agriculture, forestry, vegetation mapping, mangroves, waste management, composting…etc. Provides supervisory assistance to managing terrestrial related aspects on all projects. Working on and contributing to several Environmental Impact Assessment studies. In charge of sourcing/developing innovative tools and methodologies for improving team work and cohesion at the office. Oversees environmental impacts related to Air Quality, Traffic, Noise and Vibration on all projects.
Local Consultant – Vegetation Expert – Hidria, Spain, (May 13 – Aug 13) Worked as a local consultant for Hidria, on developing the Wetland Management Plan for Addu Hithadhoo Eidhigali Kilhli and Gn.Fuvahmulah Bandaara & Dhandimagu Kilhi. Specifically on the areas of Terrestrial Biodiversity of Mangroves and Vegetation Mapping.
CSR Consultant – Secure Bag Maldives Pvt Ltd (Jan 12 – Jan 13) In charge of all activities of the company to improve its CSR image. In charge of handling all the activities carried out on the company owned Private Island. This includes doing various agricultural activities such as hydroponics, goat keeping, poultry, orchid farming, land-based agriculture and agro-tourism. The task involves leading staff personnel of 13 employees on the island. Developed a home-based CSR project to organize and reduce household waste. Developed a school program to increase awareness of recycling. Agriculture Implementation Officer (AIO) – Project Implementation Unit, MOFA (Oct 10 – Jun 13) Worked on the “Post-Tsunami Agriculture and Fisheries Rehabilitation Programme” & the “Fisheries and Agriculture Diversification Programme” In charge of planning, organizing and implementing all the activities under the agriculture component of the project. Planning and coordinating all agriculture and cooperative related training programs. Focal point for forming and mobilizing agriculture cooperatives in island based communities. Lead instructor for conducting Enumerator Training Programs and the Team leader for conducting baseline surveys for FADIP project Established 5 agricultural cooperatives in the Maldives and worked closely towards the formation of 15 additional cooperatives across the Maldives.
Head of Agriculture Research & Extension – Ministry of Fisheries and Agriculture (Jan 10 – Sept 10) Led a team of 5 staff at the Agriculture Research and Extension Section in the Capital city and an additional 15 staff at their regional research centers in the North and South Devised agricultural research programs that develop and improve agriculture in a sustainable manner in the country. Conducted training programs, workshops and awareness session at various venues.
Director – BCube Signage Pvt Ltd (Aug 08 – Present) In charge of handling all marketing and client relations for the company. Designed layouts and concept notes for various publications and marketing campaigns. Lead focal point for all communications with the company’s foreign suppliers and local clients.
Agriculture Officer – Ministry of Fisheries and Agriculture (Aug 08 – Dec 09) Handled the “Training & Extension Unit” (Agriculture Division). Planned and coordinated all agriculture related training programs in the Maldives on a daily basis according to the staff availability. Promoted general agriculture and other related activities using modern extension methodologies. Conducted training programs, workshops and awareness session at various venues.
National Project Assistant – F.A.O, United Nations (Aug 06 – Oct 06) Worked on a Post-Tsunami forest rehabilitation project. Worked with international consultants on several aspects of Maldivian forestry, agriculture especially focusing upon Maldivian Mangrove ecosystems. Worked closely with community members, local officials and visiting consultants in understanding local environments. Studied the different vegetation types in the Maldives (30 islands, mostly including wetlands).
Graphic Designer – BCube Signage Pvt Ltd (Jan 04 – Oct 06) Designed various logos and graphics for several clients. Created layouts and concept designs for several clients Create routine layouts for signboards. Design graphic advertisements ready for print, billboard and signboards.
WORKSHOPS / SHORT-TERM TRAININGS
2009, . Workshop on Strengthening Plant Quarantine and Inspection, Male’, Maldives, 15-16 July 2009 . “Awareness of Food Security” Workshop, Male’, Maldives, 22nd Oct 2009 . Workshop on Updating and Finalization of the Agriculture Development Master Plan (ADMP), Male, Maldives, 21st Dec 2009 2010, . Fisheries & Agriculture Diversification Programme, Financial, Procurement & M&E Training, Male’, Maldives, 26-28 Jan 2010 . Team Leaders Meeting, 8th Virtual University for Small States of the Commonwealth’s (VUSSC) International Training and Materials Development Workshop, Singapore, 14-20 Apr 2010 . Prevention, Control and Management of Forest Invasive Species in South Asia, (by APFSIN), Male’, Maldives, 29th Apr 2010 . 8th Virtual University for Small States of the Commonwealth’s (VUSSC) International Training and Materials Development Workshop, Male’, Maldives, 15-31 Mar 2011 . Loan Administration Training, Hdh.Kulhudhuhfushi, Maldives, 3-8 Jul 2010 . Workshop to Finalize the Draft Pesticides and Plant Protection Bill, Male’, Maldives, 12-13 Jul 2010 . International Workshop on Climate Change Extreme Events Adaptation Practices and Technological Solutions, New Delhi, 16-18 Aug 2010 2011, . FADIP “Rolling Baseline Survey” Workshop, Male, Maldives, 2-3 March 2011 . Knowledge Sharing in Asia Workshop #3: Participatory Techniques in the Field, Godavri, Nepal, 30th March 2011 – 2nd Apr 2011 . Knowledge Sharing in Asia Workshop #2: Writing to Share Knowledge Effectively, Godavri, Nepal, 3-6 Apr 2011 . Consultation Workshop for Facilitators on Cooperatives and Business Development, UNDP Building, Male, Maldives, 21st Apr 2011 . AFE’s Workshop on “Value Chain Program Design”, Chiang Mai, Thailand, 12-16 Sept 2011 . Training of Trainers Workshop on Systematization, Nepal, 8-10 Dec 2011 2012, . Workshop on Knowledge Management, tools and techniques (as a trainer for the programme), Maldives, 29th November 2012 – 02nd Dec 2012 . Partnering 4 Development Forum, UNDP, Paradise Island Resort, 2nd Dec 2012 2013, . Consultative Workshop on ICRAF’s Capacity Development Strategy & ICRAF’s South Asian Partner’s Capacity Needs Assessment, BRAC (Bangladesh Rural Advancement Committee) Centre, 30-31 Jan 2013 . Certificate in Co-operative Poverty Reduction, Co-operative College of Malaysia, Malaysia, 3- 21 Mar 2013 2014, . Training Program on “Conflict Analysis and Community Dialogue”, UNDP Maldives, Malé, 4- 8 May 2014 2016, . The Entrepreneurial Speaker Program, The American Center Malé, Maldives, 19th Jul 2016 . Training on Agroforestry Diversification and Reforestation, Maldives, 14th-15th Nov 2016
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT WORK
Was a member of the team and provided contributions to both the field work and report writing of the following EIA’s:
Tourism Development Projects: . K. Olhuveli Resort Expansion and Upgrading EIA . Ga. Maanagalaa Resort Development EIA . Adh. Innafushi Resort Development EIA . R. Maamunagau Resort Development EIA . R. Huruvalhi Resort Development EIA . B. Miriandhoo Resort Development EIA . K. Rahfalhuhuraa Resort Development EIA . K. Emerald Lagoon Resort Development EIA . R. Faarufushi Resort Development EIA . N. Raafushi Resort Development EIA . Dh. Aluvifushi Resort Development EIA . M. Madifushi Resort Development EIA . Adh. Bodukaashihuraa Resort Development EIA . B. Dhigufaruvinagandu Resort Development EIA . K. Madivaru Resort Development EIA . Lh. Fushifaru Resort Development EIA . N. Thanburudhuffushi Picnic Island Development EIA . K. Gasfinolhu Addendum EIA (Palm transplanting) . K. Taj Vivanta Resort Shore Protection EIA
Agricultural Development Projects: . R. Dheburidheythereyvaadhoo Agricultural Development EIA . Sh. Madidhoo Agricultural Development EIA . Lh. Maduvarri Agricultural Development EIA
Airport Development Projects: . R. Ifuru Airport Development EIA . N. Maafaru Airport Development EIA
Major public/ private sector Projects: . Dh. Kudahuvadhoo Slipway Development EIA . IGMH 25 Storey Building EIA . K. Hulhumale 3000 Housing Units EIA . B. Thulhaadhoo Shore Protection Project EIA . Hdh. Kulhudhuffushi Shore Protection Project EIA . Sh. Bilehfahi Shore Protection Project EIA . STELCO Bottling Plant EIA . OOREDOO Submarine Cable Project EIA (5 islands) . Tree Top Hospital Development EIA . Nasandhura Palace Hotel Redevelopment EIA . Male-Hulhule Bridge, Borehole Drilling EIA . Male-Hulhule Bridge EIA . Addu and Fuvahmulah ESIA for Wetland Project
AWARDS & ACHIEVEMENTS
Cyprus Forestry College (2006 - 2008) . Highest Overall Performance: Presidential Prize (2nd prize) . Best Academic Performance: Nature Conservation . Best Academic Performance: Ecology . Best Botanical Collection . Best Fire Protection Project . Best Forest Management Project . Best Nursery Management Project
Center for Higher Secondary Education (2004 - 2006) . 10th place in the national Top Ten.
Majeedhiyya School (2001 - 2003) . 8th place in the national Top Ten. . A Prefect
CDE Pvt Ltd (2013 - Present) . Innovation Award 2015 – for contributions to the operations of CDE Consulting
PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENTS
Designed and structured an online system to coordinate training programs and staff travel plans. This lead to an overall increase in the number of trainings by 400% from 2008 to 2009. Played active roles in the planning and organizing of key events and workshops such as; . Agriculture Fair 2009, Hdh.Kulhudhuhfushi . Farmers Day 2009, F.Nilandhoo . Food Security Workshop 2009, (In collaboration with Department of National Planning) Worked with a team from the Sultanate of Oman on a research program focusing on the local mango variety “Dhivehi Anbu”. Co-director and technical advisor for the Agriculture TV program, “dhanduveriya”. A 13 episode show that ran successfully for 1 full season on the national TV channel, TVM. Group leader in a materials development workshop for a course titled “Diploma in Sustainable Agriculture for Small States” for the Commonwealth of Learning, collaborating with another 20 people from different parts of the world. My work was focused on writing specifically the chapters of “Agriculture Production Systems” and the “Importance of Working Together (CBPO’s)”. Team leader for the “Fisheries and Agriculture Diversification Program” (FADiP) baseline survey on the RIM’S Impact Questionnaires and the Project Questionnaire which included over 250 households in 4 different islands. There is still another 200 or more households left in this survey. Played a key role in the development of Cooperatives in the Maldives as one of the first people involved in their training, set-up and development. Successfully developed over 5 Agricultural Cooperatives, and worked closely towards the formation of 15 additional cooperatives across the Maldives. One of the Cooperatives, Addu Meedhoo Cooperative Society (AMCS), was able to successfully record annual net sales of over MVR 2 million within 2 years of its inception. Designed and developed the first ever crop planning tool for Maldivian farmers, currently in use by AMCS. The tool helps farmers to plan their crop production and harvesting cycles by identifying key dates (planting dates, harvesting date, plot size etc.)
MEMBERSHIPS IN PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATIONS
Bluepeace - an Environmental NGO . Advisor on environmental and agricultural issues since the year 2009. . Participated in several beach and reef cleanup programs. . A member since the year 2008. UN Global Compact Maldives Network - a network of local private sector parties . Representative for Addu Meedhoo Cooperative Society . Representative for CDE Consulting United Artists of Maldives - an association focusing on Maldivian Art and Artisans . Sits in the Steering committee of UAM as the Media Coordinator, since January 2013 . Participated in the International Hay Festival Activities held in the Maldives in 2010. . A member since the year 2008. Mangroves for the Future Program, UNDP and Government of Maldives Project . Member of the National Coordinating Board, since December 2016
SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES
ICT Competent (MS Applications, Corel Suite…etc) Flexible to travel Able to Multi-task and work in stressful conditions Able to co-ordinate and work with CBPO’s / Co-operatives / NGO’s Decision Making Skills Logistical Planning Skills Good Interpersonal Skills Drone Piloting Skills Training Skills in “Composting”, “Agri-Business”, “General Agriculture”, “Hydroponics”, “Agro- Forestry”, “Mangroves”, “Home-gardening”, “Integrated Pest Management” and “Co-operatives”.
REFEREES
Dr. Ahmed Shaig, Director of Environment, CDE Consulting, [email protected] +9607788758
Dr. Aminath Shafia, Former State Minister, Ministry of Fisheries and Agriculture, [email protected] +9607792458
LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY
Fluent in both writing and reading of Dhivehi (mother tongue) Fluent in both writing and reading of English Fluent in speaking Hindi and Urdu Basic level in speaking Greek Mohamed Faizan
WORK ADDRESS
Address: H. Orchidmaage, 4th Floor, Orchidmaage, 20095, Malé, Maldives Email: [email protected] Tel: +960-3312514
EDUCATION
University of Malaya (Malaysia) Master of Technology (Environmental Management) August 2012 – October 2014
International Islamic University Malaysia (Malaysia) Bachelor of Biotechnology (Honors) July 2006 – June 2010
Centre for Higher Secondary Education (Maldives) GCE Advanced Level Certificate June 2002 – June 2004 Subjects: Biology, Chemistry and Mathematics Higher Secondary Education Certificate Subjects: Dhivehi, Islam
EMPLOYMENT RECORD
CDE Consulting (Maldives) Senior Environmental Consultant July 2014 – Present Key Roles & Plan, organize and undertake Responsibilities: environmental baseline assessments, environmental impact assessments and environmental monitoring programs Supervisors: Dr. Ahmed Shaig, Director, Environmental Services Email: [email protected]
Mohamed Faizan Page 1 of 9 CDE Consulting (Maldives) Environmental Consultant June 2010– July 2012 Key Roles & Assist in preparation of Responsibilities: Environmental Impact Assessment reports; undertake environmental baseline surveys and monitoring. Supervisors: Dr. Ahmed Shaig, Director, Environmental Services Email: [email protected]
Integrated Climate Change Strategy (Project funded by UNDP/GEF, and implemented by the Ministry of Environment and Energy, Maldives) Project Assistant February 2005– April 2006 Key Roles & Assist project manager in organizing Responsibilities: workshops and field visits related to the projects. Assist in financial management and reporting for the project. Prepare monthly newsletter to update all stakeholders on project activities. Helped in development of climate change awareness materials. Supervisors: - Dr. Mizna Mohamed, Former ICCS Project Manager Email: [email protected] - Ms. Lubna Moosa, Former ICCS Project Manager Email: [email protected]
CONSULTANCY EXPERIENCE
Client: Vita Heights Company Limited Title: Environmental Monitoring for the dredging and resort May 2017 - ongoing development project at Bolidhuffaru Reef, Kaafu Atoll Contributions: - Plan, organize, and co-ordinate environmental monitoring surveys
- Seawater quality, sedimentation, and coral reef assessments
- Prepare environmental monitoring reports
Mohamed Faizan Page 2 of 9 Client: Vita Heights Company Limited Title: EIA for the proposed dredging component of the resort April 2017 development project at Bolidhuffaru Reef, Kaafu Atoll Contributions: - Plan, organize, and co-ordinate baseline survey
- Baseline environment, and impact assessment
Client: Fushifaru Investments Private Limited Title: First Addendum to the EIA prepared for the proposed March 2017 resort development in Fushifaru Island, Lhaviyani Atoll Contributions: - Marine baseline environment assessment, and impact assessment
Client: Ministry of Environment and Energy Title: EIA for the proposed Water Supply System in Rasdhoo March 2017 Alif Alif Atoll Contributions: - Marine baseline environment assessment
Client: Nakachaa Huraa Development Private Limited Title: EIA for the proposed land reclamation and resort March 2017 development project at Nakachaa Huraa, North Male’ Atoll Contributions: - Plan, organize, and co-ordinate baseline survey
- Baseline environment, and impact assessment
Client: Ithaafushi Investments Private Limited Title: Second Addendum to the EIA prepared for the proposed February 2017 land reclamation and resort development in Ithaafushi Reef, South Malé Atoll Contributions: - Assessment of the marine environment and environmental impacts of the project.
Mohamed Faizan Page 3 of 9 Client: KASA Holdings Pvt Ltd Title: Meeru Island Resort and Spa, Coral Gardening Project January 2017 - Ongoing Contributions: - Design coral gardening project. - Preparation of Environmental Management Plan for the project - Monitoring and reporting
Client: Dredging International Services (Cyprus) Ltd Title: Construction phase environmental monitoring for the January 2017 - Ongoing Emboodoofinolhu Falhu Resort Development Project Contributions: - Plan, organize and co-ordinate Environmental monitoring schedule, and activities. - Seawater quality, sedimentation, and coral reef assessments - Prepare environmental monitoring reports
Client: Mesa RF Private Limited Title: First Addendum to the EIA for the proposed January 2017 Rahfalhuhuraa Resort Development Project At Mai Falhu, Kaafu Atoll Contributions: - Plan, organize, and co-ordinate baseline survey
- Baseline environment, and impact assessment and compile EIA report
Client: Vita Heights Company Ltd Title: EIA for the proposed land reclamation and resort October 2016 development project at Bolidhuffaru Reef, Kaafu Atoll Contributions: - Plan, organize and co-ordinate environmental baseline surveys. - Undertake coral reef assessment - Impacts assessment for of EIA report.
Mohamed Faizan Page 4 of 9 Title: Construction phase environmental monitoring for the May 2016 - Ongoing China-Maldives Friendship Bridge Contributions: - Plan, organize and co-ordinate Environmental monitoring schedule, and activities. - Undertake coral reef monitoring - Prepare environmental monitoring reports
Client: Ooredoo Maldives Title: EIA for the proposed Nationwide Submarine Cable by May 2016 Ooredoo Maldives Contributions: Undertook marine baseline assessments, and prepared marine assessment report and impacts section of EIA report.
Client: MESA RF Private Limited Title: EIA for the proposed Rahfalhuhuraa Resort April 2016 Development Project, at Maifalhu, Kaafu Atoll Contributions: Undertook marine baseline assessments, and prepared marine assessment report. Undertook marine impact assessments.
Client: Big Stone Investment Title: EIA for the proposed land reclamation and resort April 2016 development project in Maagaa North Ari Atoll Contributions: Undertook marine baseline assessments, and prepared marine assessment report. Undertook marine impact assessments.
Client: Ocean Islands Pvt Ltd Title: EIA for the proposed land reclamation and resort April 2016 development project in Maagaa North Ari Atoll Contributions: Undertook marine baseline assessments, and prepared marine assessment report. Undertook marine impact assessments.
Client: Champalars Holdings Pvt Ltd Title: EIA for the proposed tourist resort development at December 2015 Kudadhoo Island, Lhaviyani Atoll Contributions: Undertook marine baseline assessments, and prepared marine assessment report. Prepared the overall EIA Report.
Mohamed Faizan Page 5 of 9
Client: Maldives Inflight Catering Private Limited Title: EIA for the proposed tourist resort development at December 2015 Madifushi Island, Meemu Atoll Contributions: Undertook marine baseline assessments, and prepared marine assessment report. Prepared the overall EIA Report.
Client: Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure Title: EIA for the proposed Malé – Hulhulé Bridge July 2015 Contributions: Undertook marine baseline assessments, and prepared marine assessment report. Prepared the overall EIA Report.
Client: Nasandhura Palace Hotel Investments Private Limited Title: EIA for the proposed redevelopment of Nasandhura June 2015 Palace Hotel Contributions: Undertook marine baseline assessments, and prepared marine assessment report. Prepared the overall EIA Report.
Client: Shuaz Investment Private Limited Title: EIA for the proposed resort development in Madivaru, May 2015 Kaafu Atoll Contributions: Undertook marine baseline assessments, and prepared marine assessment report.
Client: Velaa Private Island Title: EIA for the proposed coral rejuvenation project at Velaa March 2015 Private Island Contributions: Undertook marine baseline assessment surveys, including stakeholder consultations. Prepared and complied the EIA report.
Client: Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort and Spa Title: Coral gardening project Shangri-la’s Villingili Resort and February 2015 Spa Contributions: Undertook baseline coral reef assessment of Shangri-La’s reef. Designed the coral gardening programme. Undertook the EIA for the coral gardening programme.
Mohamed Faizan Page 6 of 9
Client: Malé Water and Sewerage Company Pvt Ltd Title: EIA for the proposed sewerage system project at April 2014 Kanditheem, Shaviyani Atoll Contributions: Marine environment assessment and section for EIA report
Client: Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives Title: EIA for the proposed beach replenishment project in April 2014 Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma, South Malé Atoll Contributions: Marine environment assessment and section for EIA report
Client: Mr. Ibrahim Shazyl, Venture Maldives Pvt Ltd Title: EIA for the proposed sewerage system Maduvvari, Raa February 2012 Atoll Contributions: Undertook the baseline assessment surveys, including stakeholder consultations. Prepared and complied the EIA report
Client: Mr. Ismail Shafeeu, Static Company Pvt Ltd Title: EIA for the proposed installation and operation of January 2012 desalination plant at Hithaadhoo, Baa Atoll Contributions: Preparation and compilation of EIA report
Client: Tatva Global Renewable Energy (Maldives) Pvt Ltd Title: EIA for the proposed Solid Waste Management facility at December 2011 Thilafushi Contributions: Undertook marine baseline surveys, and prepared the marine assessment section for the EIA report. Complied the overall EIA report
Client: Bonnavvista (Maldives) Private Limited Singapore Title: EIA for the development of a domestic airport on October 2011 Koodoo, GA Atoll Contributions: Undertook environmental baseline surveys for the EIA, and prepared the Existing Environment chapter for the EIA report.
Mohamed Faizan Page 7 of 9 Client: Ministry of Housing and Environment Title: EIA for the proposed harbor entrance channel dredging August 2011 project in Bodufolhudhoo Island, North Ari Atoll Contributions: Undertook environmental baseline surveys for the EIA, and prepared the Existing Environment chapter for the EIA report and complied the overall EIA report
Client: Mr. Hussain Afeef Title: EIA for the proposed redevelopment Phase I of July 2011 Gasfinolhu Island Resort, Kaafu Atoll Contributions: Undertook environmental baseline surveys for the EIA, and prepared the marine environment section for the EIA report
Client: Ministry of Housing and Environment Title: EIA for the proposed reconstruction of Shaviyani March 2011 Foakaidhoo Harbour Contributions: Undertook environmental baseline surveys for the EIA, and prepared the marine environment section for the EIA report
Client: Department of National Planning Title: Household Income and Expenditure Survey for March 2011 Foreigners Contributions: Lead and organized the survey for 82 households in Malé
Client: Works Corporation Limited Title: EIA for the sewerage system development in N. September 2010 Miladhoo Contributions: Undertook baseline surveys, and prepared the marine environment section
Mohamed Faizan Page 8 of 9 KEY WORKSHOPS, AND TRAININGS ATTENDED
Coral Database Training, organized by Lim Geomatics, Malé, Maldives November 2013
Workshop on Training and Capacity Building in Coral Reef Monitoring May 2012 Identifying Indicators for Regional Adaptation and Resilience, Hikkaduwa, Sri Lanka
PADI Open Water Dive Certification, Malé, Maldives July 2009
South Asia MCPA Managers Training Course June 2008
Regional Workshop on Climate Change Negotiations in South and October 2005 South Asia, Bangladesh, Dhaka
REFERENCES
Dr. Simad Saeed Dr. A. Sasekumar Managing Director Senior Research Fellow (Retired) CDE Consulting University of Malaya Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]
Dr. Ahmed Shaig Director, Environmental Services CDE Consulting Email: [email protected]
Mohamed Faizan Page 9 of 9 CURRICULUM VITAE
Fathmath Shuhaina NID: A166795 Date of Birth: 30 April 1988 Contact No#: 7989967
Career Objective: To utilize my education, experience and become a progressive person who can take higher responsibilities in the future Experience Marine Survey Assistant (October 2017 – till Present) CDE Consulting
Marine Center Supervisor (April 2011- January 2017) Baros Maldives
Education and Certificates Ongoing studies: Bachelor of Environmental Management at Maldives National University Cambridge GCE O-level, IGCSE Examinations PADI dive master Emergency first responder
Referees Elisa Fini Resident Marine Biologist (Baros Maldives)
Verena Wiesbauer Marine Biologist, Zoologist, EIA Consultant
ALI MOOSA DIDI 4th floor, MA. Rose Villa • Dhevina Magu • Male' • Maldives • 00 960 791-2001• [email protected]
A highly motivated individual with a hardworking attitude and over ten years of experience in the surveying industry of the Maldives.
Personal
Name: Ali Moosa Didi Date of Birth: 18th June 1985 Gender: Male Marital Status: Single NID No: A-154179
Education
UNIVERSITY OF CAMBRIDGE, GCE ORDINARY LEVEL (JAN 1997) Madharasthul Islamiya School Male’, Rep of Maldives
Employment
SURVEYOR (FULL TIME) (January 2010 – PRESENT) CDE Pvt Ltd Male', Rep of Maldives Conducting field based surveying activities; including shoreline mapping exercises, vegetation assessments, topographic surveys and hydrographic surveys. Work duties also include the consequent data processing and mapping activities of all the surveys conducted at the office.
HUMAN RESOURCES OFFICER (FULL TIME) (January 2010 – PRESENT) Ryco Investment Pvt Ltd Male', Rep of Maldives Assisted the Office Manager in handling all the human resources related duties of the Office, including Payroll processing.
ASSISTANT SURVEYOR (FULL TIME) (January 2010 – PRESENT) CDE Pvt Ltd Male', Rep of Maldives Assiting field based surveying activities; including shoreline mapping exercises, vegetation assessments, topographic surveys and hydrographic surveys. Work duties also included the consequent data processing and mapping activities of all the surveys conducted at the office.
俀A Skills
Competent in using Surveying Equipment and Accessories Intermediate in Microsoft Applications Intermediate in ArcGIS application
俀A
Work Experience
• Travelled to all 20 atolls of the Maldives • Over 100+ islands in the Maldives; including 20+ Resorts, 50+ Inhabited islands and 30+ Uninhabited islands and their associated reef systems Some of the EIA’s that I have worked on as a member of the team, or contributed to the field surveying work (Past 5 years only); • Tourism Development Projects: . Adh. Bodukaashihuraa Resort Development EIA . B. Dhigufaruvinagandu Resort Development EIA . K. Madivaru Resort Development EIA . Lh. Fushifaru Resort Development EIA . N. Thanburudhuffushi Picnic Island Development EIA . K. Gasfinolhu Addendum EIA (Palm transplanting) . K. Taj Vivanta Resort Shore Protection EIA . Lh. Maabinhuraa Resort Development EIA . Aa. Maagaa Resort Development EIA . Aa. Madivaru Finolhu Resort Development EIA . Olhuveli Lagoon Reclamation EIA . Dh. Aluvifushi Resort Development EIA . Lh. Huruvalhi Resort Development EIA • Agricultural Development Projects: . Sh. Madidhoo Agricultural Development EIA . Lh. Maduvarri Agricultural Development EIA . N. Minaavaru Agricultural Development EIA • Airport Development Projects: . R. Ifuru Airport Development EIA . N. Maafaru Airport Development EIA • Major public/ private sector Projects: . Tree Top Hospital Development EIA . Nasandhura Palace Hotel Redevelopment EIA . Thilafushi Harbor Development EIA . Male-Hulhule Bridge, Borehole Drilling EIA . Male-Hulhule Bridge EIA . Addu and Fuvahmulah ESIA for Wetland Project
References
Simad Saeed, PhD Ahmed Shaig, PhD Managing Director Director CDE Pvt Ltd CDE Pvt Ltd 4th Floor, Orchidmaage, Ameeruahmed Magu, 4th Floor, Orchidmaage, Ameeruahmed Magu, Male’Maldives Male’Maldives [email protected] [email protected] Tel: +960 331 2514 Tel: +960 331 2514 Fax: +960 331 5926 Fax: +960 331 5926
Mohamed Ali
ID #: A 094918 Nationality: Maldivian Languages: English, Sinhalese, Dhivehi Date of Birth: 13/09/1983 Telephone: 960-790-6007 Email: [email protected]
Experience Marine Environmental Specialist June 2011- Present CDE Consulting
Marine Environment Officer July 2008 – May 2011 Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru
Freelance Lobster Hunter, Shark Fisherman Jan 2007 - July 2008 Laamu Atoll
Dock Assistant Sep 2006 - Jan 2007 Tourist Submarine Maldives
Education and Certifications PADI Rescue Diver June 2011 PADI Enriched Air Diver June 2011 Emergency First Responder May 2011
Basic Computer Science 2001 - 2006 Singapore Informatics, Colombo Sri Lanka
Profile I am very passionate about protecting the marine environment. After having worked as both a fisherman and a marine environment officer I am aware of the impact that human activity has on our fragile marine environment. My favorite activities are reef monitoring and planting coral gardens. With my undying passion for the underwater world and also with my vast experience diving all over the Maldives, educating people on the marine environment is my greatest mission, to ensure the preservation and protection of our most valuable treasure. Furthermore, I have got the opportunity to work besides the greatest marine experts in the world namely Prof. J.E.N. Veron,Dr. Norman Queen and Dr. Daphne G. Fautin.
References
N.D. Abdul Azeez Abdul Hakeem Former Director of Conservation Mobile: + 960 7784263 Banyan Tree Maldives
Dr. Steve Newman Former Marine Lab Manager at Banyan Tree [email protected]
Robert James Former Marine Lab Manager at Banyan Tree
EIA for the Proposed Agricultural Development Project in Gaaundoodhoo Island, Raa Atoll
APPENDIX J – Stakeholder Consultation Attendees
Prepared by: CDE Consulting Page|185
EIA for the Proposed Agricultural Development Project in Gaaundoodhoo Island, Raa Atoll
APPENDIX K – Commitment Letter
Prepared by: CDE Consulting Page|186
EIA for the Proposed Agricultural Development Project in Gaaundoodhoo Island, Raa Atoll
APPENDIX L – Atoll Council Acknowledgement
Prepared by: CDE Consulting Page|187