Initial Environmental Evaluation (IEE) Dive Centre Jetty Construction at Guraidhoo, South Male , Republic of

March 2011

Land and Marine Environmental Resources Group Pvt Ltd Initial Environmental Evaluation (IEE) Jetty Construction at Guraidhoo, K. atoll

Table of Contents

Introduction...... 1 Project description ...... 1 Description of the environment ...... 3 General setting ...... 3 Physical environment ...... 4 Air quality ...... 4 Noise ...... 4 Soil and groundwater ...... 4 Climate and ...... 5 ...... 5 Waves ...... 6 Currents ...... 6 Ecological resources ...... 6 Terrestrial environment ...... 6 Beach environment ...... 7 Marine environment ...... 11 Ecologically important habitats ...... 13 Rare and endangered species ...... 14 Protected areas ...... 14 Socio economic environment ...... 14 Potential impacts and mitigation measures...... 15 Findings and recommendations ...... 20 Conclusions...... 20 Appendices ...... 21

List of Figures Figure 3 Location of the dive school at the beach front. Note that the beach is exposed and no vegetation between beach and dive school structure is present...... 7 Figure 4 Shoreline map of Guraidhoo with significant component of the shoreline marked with respect to the jetty construction site (dive school), yellow representing area with shoreline protection as quay wall and revetment structure, red representing two areas with significant erosion...... 8 Figure 5 shoreline feature of Guraidhoo at the north side of existing jetty with concrete waste rubble as ad hoc coastal protection measure ...... 8 Figure 6 Shoreline further north of existing jetty ...... 9 Figure 7 partially damaged quay wall that is currently used for berthing and boat mooring...... 9 Figure 8 Portion of the revetment structure without capping which is partly eroded ...... 10 Figure 9 View from an elevation (taken from dive school first floor level) showing quay wall, boat mooring and naturally deep lagoon...... 10 Figure 10 Viewed from top of dive school, shoreline feature looking towards south from the dive school ...... 11 Figure 11 Shoreline with ample beach, beach line vegetation cleared except larger trees. Tidal erosion scarp at the southern extent of the beach ...... 11 1

Initial Environmental Evaluation (IEE) Jetty Construction at Guraidhoo, K. atoll

Figure 12 Revetment structure made from sand/cement mix bags at the boat berthing area 12 Figure 13 A steeply sloping lagoon from 1m to 5 meter depth within a distance of less than 5 m., Note the effluent pipe terminating to the deep lagoon ...... 13 Figure 14 Slope of the beach near-shore reflecting the depth change within few meters ...... 13 Figure 15 Picture showing the lagoon with safari boats in mid and background, proposed jetty would be located in the area where the dingy (green deck) is moored ...... 15

List of Tables Table 1 Potential areas of environmental impacts from the proposed project ...... 16 Table 2 Potential environmental impact mitigation measures ...... 17

Appendices Appendix 1 Proposal ...... 22 Appendix 2 Letter of permit ...... 30 Appendix 3 Terms of Reference ...... 32 Appendix 4 Shoreline map and general location of jetty ...... 36 Appendix 5 Letter of Commitment ...... 39

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Initial Environmental Evaluation (IEE) Jetty Construction at Guraidhoo, K. atoll

Introduction

Water proof Sports limited (a UK based company in association with Mr. Jalaal (resident of Guraidhoo, south Male atoll has proposed to establish a professional dive and water sports centre at Guraidhoo. The proposal has been submitted to the government of Maldives for development approval. Land has been leased to the developer at Guraidhoo after assessment of the proposal by the Ministry of Home affairs and, province office and island office respectively. A copy of the proposal is given in appendix 1 as reference. Copy of the lease permit for the construction of the dive school is provided in Appendix 2.

As part of the infrastructure associated with the dive school, a small size jetty dedicated to the dive school has been proposed to develop by the proponent. Coastal development structure such as jetties are required to submit an environmental impact assessment report as specified in the EIA regulation of Maldives that came effective in 2007. A scoping meeting to agree on the terms of reference was held at EPA on 29 th December 2010. Based on the description of components project at the scoping meeting it was agreed among the stakeholder that a full EIA would not be required for the project. This was based on the small scale of the project and also its related impacts based on the environmental setting and location of the project. It was decided that an Initial Environmental Evaluation would be sufficient.

This Initial Environmental Evaluation (IEE) report thus fulfils the requirements specified in the Terms of Reference (ToR) prepared for this project as output of the scoping meeting held at EPA between EIA consultant, proponent, representatives from EPA and other relevant stakeholders. In preparing the report consideration has been given to cover the environmental requirements that need to be covered by EIA regulations giving due consideration to the scale, location and usage of the project and its outputs. The Terms of Reference to the project is approved by EPA on 9 th January 2011. A copy of ToR is given in Appendix 3.

This IEE was based on the fieldwork visit by the consultant to Guraidhoo (project site) in January 2011 to collect site specific information on the project and qualitatively assess the environmental components that would be affected from the implementation of the project.

Project description

This project involves construction of a jetty in association with a dive school and dive centre constructed by water proof sports of UK and Maldivian partner, (Abdul Jaleel Mohamed, Silinco, K. Guraidhoo) as the proponent). Mr. Jaleel is a local entrepreneur who has investments in general trade, tourism and fisheries.

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Initial Environmental Evaluation (IEE) Jetty Construction at Guraidhoo, K. atoll

Details of the dive school, adjoining jetty with general layout and specific drawing is given in (Figure 1). Further details of the same are given in Appendix 4.

K.Guraidhoo 1:3000

Dive school

Figure 1 General location of dive school (marked red), larger scale (A3 size map and general layout of dive school is given in appendix 4)

Dive school building consists of compressor room, office, class rooms and accommodation facilities for the dive school staff. Diving in the Maldives is predominantly boat based meaning a or similar boat for suitable for diving is used to carry the divers and equipment where divers travel to their favorite location. This means that there need to be a good loading and landing facility such as a jetty or a harbor. Guraidhoo has a deep lagoonal basin with a small sized jetty used for multiple purposes such as passenger arrival and departure, loading and unloading cargo etc.

Expected duration for the construction of the jetty is 30 days. Construction would be carried out using local labor contracted to do the work.

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Initial Environmental Evaluation (IEE) Jetty Construction at Guraidhoo, K. atoll

Description of the environment

General setting

Geographically distinct, each community or village is physically separated from each other by sea where the islands are part of the atoll archipelago of Maldives in the north and central part of Indian Ocean. As such the island of Guraidhoo is located on the central and eastern side of south Male atoll, within north central province of Maldives. The island is relatively medium size in Maldivian standards (majority of the islands are less than 50 hectares in area) with dense vegetation fringed mainly by coconut palms. The eastern side of the island within the same system harbor Kandooma resort facing ocean side towards east of Maldives. The island has an area of approximately 22 hectares with a population density of 6 persons per hectare. With the relative dense population the island is entirely occupied with housing and other related infrastructures (Figure 2). Virtually no area of the island is left a s wild or pristine area.

Figure 2 General location of Guraidhoo

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Initial Environmental Evaluation (IEE) Jetty Construction at Guraidhoo, K. atoll

Physical environment

Air quality Air quality is generally good at the project site. There are few point source emissions or engine exhausts that would cause a significant impact to the environment. Among these include few mechanized fishing vessels, other sea transport vessels, a few motor cycles and the existing powerhouse, and the powerhouse is the only source which emits exhaust fumes continuously all year around. The tropical climate with monsoonal winds provides an environment with good flushing and mixing of air and leaves little or virtually negligible traces of foul air in the immediate environment from the sources of exhaust emissions. Although emissions from the motor vehicles are not a significant concern in outer islands such as Guraidhoo it is already a significant issue and a concern in the capital Male. There are few regulatory measures to minimize the impacts on air quality. A road worthiness certification is imposed by the Ministry of Transport and Communication on motor vehicles every two years however, these routine checks are mostly on the physical aspects of the vehicle rather than the checks on limiting the exhaust fumes.

The proposed project and its components have little relevance to air quality that would result in its deterioration. Associated with the dive school is air compressors for filling dive cylinders, conventionally diesel generators are used to run compressors however electric motors would be used for running compressors in the dive school. Power for the electric motors would be sourced from the island powerhouse.

Noise In general, noise pollution is not a significant human health issue in the Maldives as there are no large motorized industries. The most significant source of noise in the islands including the project site is from the powerhouse which is powered by diesel engine generators (DEG). These generators are generally operated in compliance with the regulations imposed by the Maldives Electricity Bureau (MEB) of Maldives.

Sources of noise from the project are negligible. It is expected that there would be come noise during the construction of the jetty but only limited to the duration of the construction. Noise from the compressors would be negligible since they would be powered with electric generators. The compressors would be housed in a dedicated room further minimizing the any unfavorable noise.

Soil and groundwater Soil in these small tropical islands are poor and highly alkaline in nature as result of the sediments been saturated by calcium carbonate (100% coral sand). Only the top thin layer of the soil contains humus which varies depending on the vegetation and canopy. As the soil is highly sandy the water retaining capacity of the soil is poor. Guraidhoo soil can be categorized as good compared to majority of the islands in the Maldives. There are no major agricultural activities in the island except back yard gardening at home plots. The project component has no association 4

Initial Environmental Evaluation (IEE) Jetty Construction at Guraidhoo, K. atoll

with agriculture and would not affect home gardening activities. The land allocated is unsuitable for agriculture since it is located at the harbor front which is exposed saline environment.

Groundwater is generally sweet and fresh, and the only source of water for cooking and sanitation purpose. Sewage disposal is generally through septic tank systems where the effluents are disposed to the ground which may eventually mix with the freshwater lens through drainage and precipitation. As a result the community uses rainwater as the main source of drinking water. Many households have rainwater tanks to collect rainwater during the rainy season. There are also communal rainwater collecting facilities on the island with public finance.

Groundwater of all the islands inundated by the tsunami has been affected through contamination and saline intrusion. As a result the groundwaters in many islands are slightly saline; however this status has been significantly improved since the tsunami. The activities associated with the project especially jetty construction

Climate and oceanography

Maldives is affected by the Southwest monsoon (SW) (May – September) and the Northeast monsoon (NE) (December – February). The period between March and April is the transition period from the NE monsoon to SW monsoon known locally as the Hulhangu Halha, while the transition period from SW monsoon to NE monsoon known as Iruvai Halha is from October to November. The SW monsoon is generally rough and wetter (locally known as the rainy season) than the NE monsoon. Storms and gales are infrequent in this part of the Indian Ocean and cyclones do not reach the Maldivian archipelago.

The average of Maldives is around 28 ° C with little variation across the latitudes it spans close to the equator. The average daily temperature which can be applied to the project area is from Hanimaadhoo which is between 25 ° C and 31 ° C. Rainfall records for the area shows approximately 1780mm of rain annually.

Tides Tides experienced in Maldives are mixed semi-diurnal and diurnal with a strong diurnal inequality. There are few tidal record stations in Maldives. The nearest station is at Male International Airport. Tide records at Airport, which can be applied for estimating tide levels at Guraidhoo with reasonable accuracy because of little tidal variation through out the Maldives. Tidal variation reported from National Meteorological Centre shows about 0.15 m north to south variation where the tidal range is slightly larger in the southern of Maldives. Tidal estimates at Airport indicate that the maximum tidal range approximately 1.20m and the same can be safely used at Guraidhoo. The highest astronomical tide level recorded for Maldives is +0.64m (MSL) and the lowest astronomical tide level are -0.56m (MSL). The average elevations of islands in the Maldives are 1meter above mean sea-level (MSL) and the estimated elevation of Guraidhoo is 5

Initial Environmental Evaluation (IEE) Jetty Construction at Guraidhoo, K. atoll

same. Site specific records and calculations for the tide were not taken at the project site because these parameters are not directly relevant to the proposed project activities. The jetty is designed to construct at about 1.5 meters above mean sea level (higher than the ground level estimation of 1 meter).

Waves The and wind waves experienced at Guraidhoo are conditioned by the monsoons and the swells generated by the storms in the Indian Ocean. The waves approaching the shoreline of Guraidhoo are also conditioned by the two monsoons the NE and SW monsoon. Oceanic swells and the local wind generated waves that approach the shores of Guraidhoo would lose most of their energy at the reef slope/crest and reef flat on the eastern and south eastern side of the island. The waves that reach the shoreline of the island would be waves that would have been regenerated on the reef flat after the original wave have broken on the reef slope/crest. The western side of the island is primarily subject to local wind waves generated within South Male atoll. These waves become more significant on the shoreline of Guraidhoo during the SW monsoon. The western side of the island occupies a deep central lagoon. Although this side of the island is exposed to the SW monsoon the width of the reef and lagoon significantly reduces the wave energy before it reaches the shoreline. This lagoon also provides a natural harbor to the island.

Currents Generally oceanic current flow through the Maldives is driven by the monsoon winds. Westward flowing currents are dominated from January to March (NE monsoon) and eastwardly from May to November (SW monsoon). The change in current flow patterns occurs in April and December (roughly the beginning of monsoon change). In April the westward currents are weak and eastward currents flow will slowly take place. Similarly in December eastward currents are weak and westward currents will take over slowly. Near shore currents are slightly different from the oceanic currents and are largely influenced by the location, orientation and morphology of the reefs around the islands. No specific wave data was collected at Guraidhoo as these are not directly relevant or influenced by the project.

Ecological resources

Terrestrial environment The vegetation structure of Guraidhoo is dominated by coconut palms with the typical coastal vegetation types in tropical coral islands. These includes Kuredhi ( Pemphis acidula ), Magoo (Scaevola taccada ) and Halavel ( Suriana maritima ) dominating the nearshore or coastal area. Timber size trees such as Nika ( Ficus bengalensis ), Funa ( Caloplyllum inophyllum ), Kaani ( Cordia subcordata ) and Hirundhu ( Thespesia populnea ) are also common. Several agricultural crops such as and chilies are grown in designated home backyard plots at a small scale. Breadfruit 6

Initial Environmental Evaluation (IEE) Jetty Construction at Guraidhoo, K. atoll

(Artocarpus artilis ), Guava ( Psidium guajava ) and Kunnaaru ( Zizyphus mauritinia ) are common household food plants grown at home plots.

There are several coconut palms and mixed littoral vegetation in the vicinity of the dive school plot. Beach front is largely on and devoid of vegetation. The dive school is built on land allocated and approved by Guraidhoo Island Office (see Appendix 2). It is noted that there is no appropriate setback between vegetation line and dive school.

Figure 3 Location of the dive school at the beach front. Note that the beach is exposed and no vegetation between beach and dive school structure is present.

Beach environment The beach environment of the island is exposed to artificial modifications. The actual reason for this is difficult to predict. Evaluation of the practices and inspection of the beach during the field visit gave reasons for these changes as follows;

• Coastal erosion • Harbor front development that include jetty and revetment/quay wall for loading and unloading • Coastal development (housing plots) very close to the shoreline due to overcrowding and hence make shift shoreline protection measures • Coastal vegetation clearance

In addition to the jetty, about a 50 meter long quay wall has also been constructed along the deep lagoon basin taking advantage of the lagoon as the harbor basin. This revetment is constructed by sand cement wall structure with a concrete capping on top. This capping is not to the entire length of the revetment.

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Initial Environmental Evaluation (IEE) Jetty Construction at Guraidhoo, K. atoll

Shoreline map of the island with major coastal features and issues are outlined in Figure 4. Typical features of the shoreline in the vicinity of the harbor are given in Figures 5-11.

K.Guraidhoo 1:3000

a are e on pr ion os Er

Dive school ll a w y a u q t/ n e tm e v e r g n ti is x E

rea e a ron n p sio Ero

Figure 4 Shoreline map of Guraidhoo with significant component of the shoreline marked with respect to the jetty construction site (dive school), yellow representing area with shoreline protection as quay wall and revetment structure, red representing two areas with significant erosion.

Figure 5 shoreline feature of Guraidhoo at the north side of existing jetty with concrete waste rubble as ad hoc coastal protection measure 8

Initial Environmental Evaluation (IEE) Jetty Construction at Guraidhoo, K. atoll

Figure 6 Shoreline further north of existing jetty

Figure 7 partially damaged quay wall that is currently used for berthing and boat mooring.

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Initial Environmental Evaluation (IEE) Jetty Construction at Guraidhoo, K. atoll

Figure 8 Portion of the revetment structure without capping which is partly eroded

Figure 9 View from an elevation (taken from dive school first floor level) showing quay wall, boat mooring and naturally deep lagoon

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Initial Environmental Evaluation (IEE) Jetty Construction at Guraidhoo, K. atoll

Figure 10 Viewed from top of dive school, shoreline feature looking towards south from the dive school

Figure 11 Shoreline with ample beach, beach line vegetation cleared except larger trees. Tidal erosion scarp at the southern extent of the beach

Marine environment Marine environment of Maldives is highly diverse in context of environment in which the whole Maldivian island ecology is dependent. The coastal marine environment is comprised of several coral reef related marine organisms many of which are ecologically important in addition to the myriad species in the ecosystem. Currently there are over 1200 species of fish, 250 species 11

Initial Environmental Evaluation (IEE) Jetty Construction at Guraidhoo, K. atoll

of corals, 13 species of mangroves, several species of sea grasses, 25 species of whales and dolphins and five species of sea turtles among many other several animal groups from the coastal environment. Reef environment is highly important to the economy of Maldives both from a fishery and tourism perspective.

This project and its impacts are related to the marine environment and its associated components. The lagoon associated with the island is relatively deep even very close to the shoreline. As a result the lagoon provides a sheltered harbor for local boats as well as lives aboard safari boats. Where boats frequently berth there is a revetment/quay wall constructed from sand/cement mix bags providing a relatively deep berth (Figure 12). There exists a natural shoreline portion south of the revetment with ample beach of more than 200m long. The deep lagoon (>3m) encroach towards shoreline almost to 5m from low tide line (Figure 13 and 14).

Figure 12 Revetment structure made from sand/cement mix bags at the boat berthing area

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Initial Environmental Evaluation (IEE) Jetty Construction at Guraidhoo, K. atoll

Figure 13 A steeply sloping lagoon from 1m to 5 meter depth within a distance of less than 5 m., Note the effluent pipe terminating to the deep lagoon

Figure 14 Slope of the beach near-shore reflecting the depth change within few meters

Ecologically important habitats The marine environment, the island environment and associated habitats are all ecologically important ecological entities in a national context. Some of the more significant habitats are reefs, sea-grass beds, mangroves and inter-tidal area which have more of an ecological value than economic value. There are no such habitats associated with the project site (island). Coral reefs

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Initial Environmental Evaluation (IEE) Jetty Construction at Guraidhoo, K. atoll

and sea grass habitats are part of island but not in the vicinity. Therefore negligible impacts from the proposed project activities are foreseen. None of the other habitats are directly associated with the project.

Rare and endangered species There are no rare or endangered species associated or would be directly impacted as a result of this project. Rare and endangered species in the Maldives are more confined to the marine environment. Not rare but endangered species that are of highly significant even at global level are all the 5 species of sea turtles found in Maldivian waters. In addition to sea turtles several other marine species are protected. There are several species with an export ban and few species with ban on exploitation.

Protected areas Protected areas are few in the country which is mostly confined to marine protected dive sites. There are 25 protected dive sites in the Maldives but none in the vicinity of the project site. In addition to these protected dive sites a protected area has been declared (2004) in Addu atoll, known as Eidhegili kilhi area on of the first protected area that encompass both marine and terrestrial habitats. There are no protected areas associated with this project.

Socio economic environment

Guraidhoo is one of the 9 inhabited islands in Kaafu atoll. It has a population of over 1400. With the growth of tourism in the Maldives, especially Male atoll the economy of the island is dependent on the tourism sector related benefits. As such there are several tourism souvenir shops that are locally run. There is a substantial amount of people visiting the island daily organized as islands excursions from the resorts nearby. In addition several live aboard vessels that operate throughout Maldives frequently use the lagoon of Guraidhoo as safe harbor. As such tourists from the vessels also visit the island for sightseeing and shopping.

The only access to the island is through a jetty constructed annexed to a revetment/quay wall. This is used by all types of trade such as fishing vessels, transport vessels, passenger ferries and tourist excursion vessels (. As a result the jetty is heavily used and often become congested. An additional jetty such as proposed would make the diving associated with the dive school much convenient. The owner is aware and allows the use of the jetty for other use. Although the jetty is privately financed it becomes a public use facility as common custom in the Maldives.

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Initial Environmental Evaluation (IEE) Jetty Construction at Guraidhoo, K. atoll

Figure 15 Picture showing the lagoon with safari boats in mid and background, proposed jetty would be located in the area where the dingy (green deck) is moored

Potential impacts and mitigation measures

The proposed jetty is located in vicinity of the existing revetment/quay wall used for boat arrival, loading and unloading. Open access to a deep lagoon several boats use the beach and landing area through use of small tenders. The shoreline is thus exposed to varying degree of modification from hard engineering structures to natural beach setting.

The proposed jetty at the shoreline is located in front of the newly constructed dive school. Formed as a concrete structure the jetty is built on columns and the deep end of the jetty terminates to the lagoon to a depth of -2.5m MSL. Simple in design and construction no major environmental impacts are envisaged.

However, potential environmental impacts associated with the project activities and their likely magnitudes are described in Table 1. These impacts were based on key environmental components and specific parameters within each component which is associated with the project. Considerations were also given taking to account the magnitude of the project and project activities in assessing these impacts.

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Initial Environmental Evaluation (IEE) Jetty Construction at Guraidhoo, K. atoll

Table 1 Potential areas of environmental impacts from the proposed project

YES KEY COMPONENTS NO MINOR MODERATE MAJOR Atmospheric Air Quality √ Vegetation Loss √ Terrestrial Soil √

Habitat Destruction/Damage √

Waste management √ Water Groundwater √ Resources Freshwater Lens √ Damage to Reef √ Coastal & Damage to sea grass beds √ Marine Marine Pollution √ Beach Erosion √ Fisheries Loss/Displacement √ Noise √ Socio- Public Safety √ Economic Public Health √

Employment Opportunities √

Land/Seascape Aesthetic Value √

As described in the Table 1, many of the environmental components identified are to have a minor impact. These minor impacts are from activities either during the construction and operation phase of the project. As outlined earlier the magnitude of the proposed project and its components are not large, therefore the likely impacts associated with various activities are also not highly significant. The mitigation measures for the various impacts identified are given in Table 2. In addition the magnitude and duration of the impacts, mitigation costs and responsible agencies are also identified. A letter of commitment from the proponent for taking responsibility to mitigate any significant environmental impact is given in Appendix 5.

Even though some of the impacts associated with the project are minor, the major components that may cause these impacts are outlined below. Description of these are based on the finding of field visit to the project site, consultations with the project proponent, published information and reports and consultants own knowledge through several references in this field.

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Initial Environmental Evaluation (IEE) Jetty Construction at Guraidhoo, K. atoll

Table 2 Potential environmental impact mitigation measures

MITIGATION INSTITUTIONAL PHASE POSSIBLE IMPACTS MITIGATION MEASURES LOCATION TIME FRAME COSTS RESPONSIBILITY Air quality Follow and adhere to code of Jetty During the Covered by the Contractor • Dust and construction conduct followed in the local construction construction contractor Project owner related dust from site construction industry. Such site and the (1 month) clearing and structural practices may include; vicinity construction • Cover loose and dry material with canvas or other appropriate method. • Wet the construction area if it becomes dry to minimize potential dust issues.

– temporary– impacts Noise and vibration Limit all work between 0600hrs Jetty During the Covered by the Contractor • from construction works and 1800 hrs construction construction contractor Project owner and machinery involved So that the people institutions in site and the (1 month if any the vicinity are not disturbed vicinity CONSTRUCTION significantly. Vegetation loss • NA • site clearing at jetty construction site

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Initial Environmental Evaluation (IEE) Jetty Construction at Guraidhoo, K. atoll

Pollution • Good code of conduct Jetty During the Covered by the Contractor • waste generated from adhered by the workforce construction construction contractor Project owner construction work • Aggregate and segregate site and the • construction waste waste and dispose it vicinity according to the local waste management practice or to a higher standard (e.g. make arrangements to transport hazardous waste to municipal waste

Air quality • Good engine maintenance Jetty and dive During the Project owner • Smoke from compressor and adherence to repair and school operation of run engine exhaust maintenance schedule the dive • specified by the engine school manufacturers • Design and construction of silencers so that exhaust – permanent– impacts emissions dispose appropriately • Electric motors to run OPERATION compressor used

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Initial Environmental Evaluation (IEE) Jetty Construction at Guraidhoo, K. atoll

Noise and vibration • operation of the compressor Jetty and dive During the Project owner • from compressors in sound proof rooms school operation of the dive school Waste • Good house keeping Jetty and dive During the Project owner • Waste generated from . school operation dive • operation of dive school school and • Waste from dive diving dhoanis activities Oil leak and spill • Fuel storage area secured Jetty and dive During the Project owner • Oil and fuel is designed leakages coated with school operation dive to be stored in the impermeable material school and compressor premise. • Adhere to the code of conduct diving Accidental spill and fuel handling activities leakages are likely during fuel transfer and transport

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Initial Environmental Evaluation (IEE) Jetty Construction at Guraidhoo, K. atoll

Findings and recommendations

This IEE report confirms that all the significant adverse environmental impacts associated with the jetty construction for dive school at Guraidhoo can be satisfactorily mitigated.

This project will have an overall positive impact on the environment especially socio economic environment as the additional jetty will facilitate additional location for easy access and recess to and from the island. It additionally would increase the economic status of the community through additional commercial activities and services from the dive school.

No significant impact to the marine environment is envisaged as the jetty design and location is limited to the existing environmental setting. The location of the jetty and its termination (jetty end) is set within the deep lagoon that harbor adjacent to the shoreline. The bottom of the lagoon is predominantly sand and devoid of any coral community. Jetty construction is based on stilts (vertical columns fabricated using PVC pipes and cement and sand mix. The footing of the columns would be buried to the lagoon bottom manually to a depth of 0.5 to 1.0 meters.

No shoreline erosion is anticipated due to the construction of the jetty as there would be ample flow of sediments across the jetty as it designed and constructed to allow such flow. Existing coastline is modified with various coastal protection measures. This include revetment/ quay wall structure associated with the harbor landing area, two existing jetties built on columns, rubble mount like shoreline revetments at various locations in an ad hoc manner.

Major recommendation to minimize potential environmental impacts are given in are given in Table 2.

Conclusions

The finding of this IEE, after the assessment of the existing environmental conditions at the project site, environmental impacts associated with the proposed activities confirms that the impacts identified can be controlled provided all the environmental mitigation measures and monitoring procedures are followed.

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Initial Environmental Evaluation (IEE) Jetty Construction at Guraidhoo, K. atoll

Appendices

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Initial Environmental Evaluation (IEE) Jetty Construction at Guraidhoo, K. atoll

Appendix 1 Proposal

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PROJECT GURAIDHOO

PROPOSAL TO THE GOVERNMENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF MALDIVES

Waterproof Sports Ltd. www.waterproofsports.org Waterproof Sports Ltd. Altbabensham 10 [email protected] Company No: 06765974 D – 83547 Babensham 69 Great Hampton St Germany Maldives Fon: Birmingham, B18 6Ew Fon: +49 8071 – 52 72 02 +960 – 7 904 904 England

PROJECT GURAIDHOO PROPOSAL TO THE GOVERNMENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF MALDIVES

TABLE OF CONTENT

1. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ...... 3 1.1. INTRODUCTION PROJECT GURAIDHOO ...... 3 1.2. MISSION STATEMENT ...... 3 1.3. INTRODUCTION WATERPROOF SPORTS ...... 3 2. PROJECT GURAIDHOO ...... 4 2.1. FIRST STAGE FACILITIES ...... 4 2.1.1. GUEST HOUSE FACILITIES ...... 4 2.1.2. ...... 4 2.1.3. WATERSPORTS CENTER ...... 4 2.2. SECOND STAGE FACILITIES ...... 5 2.2.1. DIVE AND SPORTS SHOP ...... 5 2.2.2. SERVICE AND REPAIR WORKSHOPS ...... 5 2.2.3. CHAMBER AND MEDICAL CLINIC ...... 5 3. COMMUNITY SERVICES ...... 5 3.1. SUPPORT OF LOCAL COMMUNITY ...... 5 3.1.1. MEDICAL CLINIC ...... 5 3.1.2. SCHOOL AND COMMUNITY ...... 6 3.1.3. INSTRUCTOR TRAINING AND CERTIFICATION ...... 6 3.1.4. HARBOUR PROJECT ...... 6 3.2. NATURE PRESERVATION ...... 6 3.2.1. SHARK AND TURTLE PROJECT ...... 6 3.2.2. OTHER NATURE AND WILDLIFE PROJECTS ...... 6 3.2.3. ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION ...... 6 3.2.4. ALTERNATIVE ENERGY ...... 6 4. STRUCTURE & PARTNERSHIPS ...... 7 5. PROPOSAL ...... 7

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PROJECT GURAIDHOO PROPOSAL TO THE GOVERNMENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF MALDIVES

1. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

1.1. INTRODUCTION PROJECT GURAIDHOO The current situation of the global market brings new challenges in tourism. The recent changes within the Government of the Republic of Maldives and the new laws being passed show that these challenges can become possibilities.

As we are living and working in the Maldives especially because of our fascination and love for the beauty of this country and its people, we want guests to experience just the same. Rather than being presented a false and polished reality in resort we want our guests to share the normal life with the locals and enjoy the Maldives the way they are.

At the same time, we want to help the local community to develop in a healthy way. Out of the created revenue, there will be funds established to support the local community on the one hand and on the other hand for different nature preservation projects, e.g. Shark and Turtle Projects.

By developing Guraidhoo’s full potential, it will become an even more important island for Locals, Tourists, Resorts and Safari Boats in South Male Atoll.

1.2. MISSION STATEMENT

Î CREATING GUEST HOUSE FACILITIES Î CREATING DIVE AND WATERSPORTS CENTER Î CREATING FUNDS TO SUPPORT LOCAL COMMUNITY Î CREATING FUNDS FOR NATURE PRESERVATION PROJECTS Î DEVELOPING GURAIDHOO’S FULL POTENTIAL

1.3. INTRODUCTION WATERPROOF SPORTS Waterproof Sports Ltd. is a UK company with its roots in Germany which is establishing and operating professional Dive and Watersports Centers, preferably in cooperation with international Hotels and Resorts. Established in 2004, the founders of Waterproof Sports have decades of experience in professional dive and sports management, but also and sports and adventure travel arrangements. In the Maldives, Waterproof Sports UK Ltd. is successfully operating the dive and watersports centers of the Adaaran Resorts Rannalhi, Vadoo, Hudhuran Fushi and Meedhupparu.

In tourism, the customer’s growing desire for watersports, action and adventure combined with a growing environmental awareness, sets a new challenge for governments and tourism companies to position themselves on the market. With deep understanding of the market and its needs, we act as a reliable partner by creating customized and up to date .

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PROJECT GURAIDHOO PROPOSAL TO THE GOVERNMENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF MALDIVES

2. PROJECT GURAIDHOO The project Guraidhoo is planned in two stages of development. The first stage facilities are the core facilities of the project and would be started at the same time to have all necessary facilities for tourism operations on Guraidhoo.

2.1. FIRST STAGE FACILITIES

2.1.1. GUEST HOUSE FACILITIES At first, we have planned with one guest house being built on the land of our local partner family. This guest house will have all necessary facilities for the convenient stay of the guests. So far, we have plans with about 20 rooms or more, on 3 floors, with an open roof Restaurant and covered kitchen and bar section.

2.1.2. DIVE CENTER At the same time we are planning to set up a professional dive center with all necessary equipment and facilities. This dive center will provide dive services and courses for guests on the island, but it will also become a base for instructor trainings and certification by different dive associations for locals and foreigners.

The dive center is planned to be built at the harbour and jetty area of Guraidhoo. As we have the motivation to make this a professional and up to date dive center, it will need to have enough space. Further extensions are planned to be able to start in a small but appropriate way. On the roof of the dive center we are planning to have a small Cafe area with nice view of Guraidhoo’s harbour.

2.1.3. WATERSPORTS CENTER At first, we are planning with a small watersports center at the north‐western shore of Guraidhoo with perfect access to its beautiful lagoon. From here we will operate all typical watersports and also some motorized sports. As the location of Guraidhoo is also perfect for surf excursions by even having a local surf break, we are also aiming on the surf market.

Within this facility we will also develop special programs for watersports instructor training and certification of international associations (VDWS etc.). Therefore we are planning to extend this watersports center in near future.

Depending on the location and structure of the facility, we are planning on including a Beach‐Bar into the watersports center.

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PROJECT GURAIDHOO PROPOSAL TO THE GOVERNMENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF MALDIVES

2.2. SECOND STAGE FACILITIES

2.2.1. DIVE AND SPORTS SHOP A shop will be integrated into the dive center with only dive and watersports related products to not compete with the local shops. Next to dive and sports products we will include a section for our merchandising and cloths.

2.2.2. SERVICE AND REPAIR WORKSHOPS Next to integrating a workshop into the dive center to be able to do service and repairs of dive or sports equipment, we are also planning to establish an engine workshop for boat and jet ski engines in cooperation with an experienced partner from UK.

Guests and locals, surrounding resorts and safari boats will appreciate a professional partner in South Male Atoll for dive and sports, engine and jet ski spare parts but also repairs and service.

2.2.3. DECOMPRESSION CHAMBER AND MEDICAL CLINIC With doctors from Italy and Germany being specialized in dive medicine and hyperbaric, we are furthermore planning in building a decompression chamber with medical center on Guraidhoo. As this will be the only decompression chamber and proper medical center in South Male Atoll, it will become an essential part of the infrastructure.

3. COMMUNITY SERVICES As we want our project to be fully integrated into the local community, we want to initiate programs to support the development by establishing funds out of the created revenue of the facilities. With appropriate marketing tools we are confident to be able to get even more support from international guests, clubs and associations.

These funds will also be used for selected nature preservation programs.

3.1. SUPPORT OF LOCAL COMMUNITY

3.1.1. MEDICAL CLINIC From the beginning on we are planning to help to improve the medical clinic in Guraidhoo. Doctors from Germany and Italy will be visiting the island on a regular basis. Using the created funds we will extend the medical center and the project of the decompression chamber will be prepared.

PAGE 5 OF 7 Initial Environmental Evaluation (IEE) Jetty Construction at Guraidhoo, K. atoll

Appendix 2 Letter of permit

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Initial Environmental Evaluation (IEE) Jetty Construction at Guraidhoo, K. atoll

Appendix 3 Terms of Reference

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Initial Environmental Evaluation (IEE) Jetty Construction at Guraidhoo, K. atoll

Appendix 4 Shoreline map and general location of jetty

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Initial Environmental Evaluation (IEE) Jetty Construction at Guraidhoo, K. atoll

K.Guraidhoo 1:3000

Dive school

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Initial Environmental Evaluation (IEE) Jetty Construction at Guraidhoo, K. atoll

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Initial Environmental Evaluation (IEE) Jetty Construction at Guraidhoo, K. atoll

Appendix 5 Letter of Commitment

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