ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT

For the Proposed Resort Development

GA. Maareha

Proponent: Moving International Pvt. Ltd.

Sndcys in association with

July 2012 EIA for the proposed Resort Development on GA. Maareha

Table of Contents

TABLE OF CONTENTS ...... I

TABLE OF FIGURES ...... V

TABLE OF TABLES ...... VI

CONSULTANTS DECLARATION ...... VII

PROPONENT’S DECLARATION ...... VIII

COMMITMENT LETTER ...... IX

DOCUMENT RECEIPT BY ATOLL COUNCIL ...... X

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ...... XI

1 INTRODUCTION ...... 1

1.1 INTRODUCTION ...... 1

1.2 AIMS AND OBJECTIVES OF THE EIA ...... 2

1.3 EIA IMPLEMENTATION AND METHODOLOGIES ...... 2

2 LEGISLATIVE AND REGULATORY CONSIDERATIONS...... 3

2.1 POLICY GUIDANCE ...... 3 2.1.1 National Framework for Development 2009-2013 ...... 3 2.1.2 Third National Environment Action Plan ...... 4 2.1.3 Maldives National Strategy for Sustainable Development 2009-2013 ...... 5 2.1.4 Waste Management Policy 2007 ...... 6 2.2 REGULATORY BODIES ...... 6 2.2.1 Ministry of Housing and Environment ...... 6 2.2.2 Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) ...... 7 2.2.3 Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture ...... 7 2.2.4 Atoll Councils and Island Councils ...... 7 2.3 LAWS AND REGULATIONS ...... 7 2.3.1 Environmental Protection and Preservation Act ...... 7 2.3.2 Land Act ...... 8 2.3.3 Consultation and Public Participation Laws ...... 8 2.3.4 Regulation on the Protection and Conservation of Environment in the Tourism Industry ...... 8 2.3.5 Regulation on Cutting Trees ...... 9 2.3.6 Regulation on Environmental Liability ...... 9 2.3.7 Desalination Regulation ...... 9

Proponent: Moving International Pvt. Ltd. Page | i Consultant: Ahmed Zahid (EIA08/2007) EIA for the proposed Resort Development on GA. Maareha

2.3.8 Powerhouse Registration Guidelines ...... 10 2.4 INTERNATIONAL CONVENTIONS, TREATIES AND PROTOCOLS ...... 10

3 PROJECT DESCRIPTION ...... 13

3.1 PROJECT PROPONENT ...... 13

3.2 PROJECT LOCATION ...... 13

3.3 THE PROJECT ...... 13 3.3.1 Accommodation ...... 14 3.3.2 Food ...... 14 3.3.3 Recreation ...... 15 3.4 ENVIRONMENTALLY SIGNIFICANT ACTIVITIES ...... 15 3.4.1 Land clearance ...... 16 3.4.2 Dredging activities ...... 16 3.4.3 Coastal modifications ...... 17 3.4.4 Temporary facilities ...... 18 3.4.5 Desalination Plant ...... 19 3.4.6 Powerhouse and fuel storage ...... 20 3.4.7 Sewerage System ...... 21 3.4.8 Waste Management ...... 22 3.4.9 Landscaping ...... 23 3.4.10 Emergency Response Plan ...... 23 3.4.11 Equipment, Machinery and Tools ...... 23 3.4.12 Transport ...... 24 3.5 TOURIST ACTIVITIES AND SERVICES ...... 24

3.6 PROJECT INPUTS AND OUTPUTS ...... 25

3.7 JUSTIFICATION ...... 26

4 PROJECT ALTERNATIVES ...... 28

4.1 NO PROJECT OPTION ...... 28

4.2 ALTERNATIVE LOCATION ...... 29

4.3 ALTERNATIVE USES OF THE ISLAND ...... 29

4.4 ALTERNATIVES FOR ENERGY GENERATION ...... 29

4.5 ALTERNATIVES FOR WATER PRODUCTION ...... 30

4.6 ALTERNATIVES FOR SEWAGE DISPOSAL ...... 31

4.7 RECOMMENDED ALTERNATIVES ...... 31

5 EXISTING ENVIRONMENT ...... 33

5.1 INTRODUCTION ...... 33

Proponent: Moving International Pvt. Ltd. Page | ii Consultant: Ahmed Zahid (EIA08/2007) EIA for the proposed Resort Development on GA. Maareha

5.2 METHODOLOGIES ...... 33 5.2.1 Location identification ...... 33 5.2.2 Marine Water Quality...... 33 5.2.3 Coastal processes ...... 34 5.2.4 Marine Environment ...... 34 5.3 CLIMATE ...... 35 5.3.1 Monsoons ...... 35 5.3.2 Temperature ...... 36 5.3.3 Rainfall ...... 36 5.3.4 Wind ...... 37 5.3.5 Waves ...... 39 5.3.6 Evaporation Rates and Relative Humidity ...... 40 5.4 HYDROGRAPHY ...... 41 5.4.1 Tides ...... 41 5.4.2 Currents ...... 42 5.4.3 Bathymetry ...... 42 5.5 GEOLOGY AND GEOMORPHOLOGY ...... 45

5.6 WATER QUALITY ...... 48 5.6.1 Marine water quality ...... 48 5.6.2 Groundwater quality ...... 49 5.7 ECOLOGY ...... 49 5.7.1 Marine Protected Areas and sensitive sites ...... 49 5.7.2 Endangered species ...... 49 5.7.3 Housereef of Maareha ...... 49 5.7.4 Marine Ecological Survey Results ...... 52 5.7.5 Status of the coral reef ...... 55 5.7.6 Floral Landscape ...... 56 5.7.7 Terrestrial Fauna ...... 58 5.8 SOCIO-ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT ...... 58

5.9 NATURAL HAZARD VULNERABILITY ...... 59

6 STAKEHOLDER CONSULTATIONS ...... 65

6.1 SCOPING MEETING ...... 65

6.2 STAKEHOLDER CONSULTATIONS ...... 66

7 IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES ...... 69

7.1 IMPACT IDENTIFICATION ...... 69

7.2 OVERALL IMPACTS OF THE PROPOSED PROJECT ...... 70

Proponent: Moving International Pvt. Ltd. Page | iii Consultant: Ahmed Zahid (EIA08/2007) EIA for the proposed Resort Development on GA. Maareha

7.3 PROJECT SPECIFIC IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES ...... 72 7.3.1 Mobilization ...... 72 7.3.2 Machinery ...... 73 7.3.3 Construction Materials ...... 73 7.3.4 Arrival Jetty, Mooring Area and Access Channel ...... 74 7.3.5 Construction of Sewer Outfall ...... 74 7.3.6 Feed water intake ...... 75 7.3.7 Brine discharge ...... 75 7.3.8 Construction of Inland Structures ...... 75 7.3.9 Structures in the littoral regime ...... 76 7.3.10 Energy Generation ...... 77 7.3.11 Health and safety ...... 77 7.4 WASTE AND WASTEWATER ...... 78 7.4.1 Transport Related Impacts ...... 79 7.4.2 Marine-based Activities ...... 80 7.4.3 Socio-Economic Impacts ...... 80 7.5 UNCERTAINTIES IN IMPACT PREDICTION ...... 80

8 ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING ...... 84

8.1 INTRODUCTION ...... 84

8.2 RECOMMENDED MONITORING PROGRAMME ...... 84

8.3 COST OF MONITORING ...... 85

8.4 MONITORING REPORT ...... 86

9 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS ...... 87

10 REFERENCES ...... 88

APPENDIX 1: TERMS OF REFERENCE ...... 89

APPENDIX 2: WATER QUALITY REPORT ...... 108

APPENDIX 3: MINUTES OF MEETING WITH COUNCIL ...... 111

Proponent: Moving International Pvt. Ltd. Page | iv Consultant: Ahmed Zahid (EIA08/2007) EIA for the proposed Resort Development on GA. Maareha

Table of Figures

Figure 3-1: Location of Maarehaa, Gaafu Alifu Atoll ...... 13 Figure 3-2: Proposed development concept layout ...... 27 Figure 4-1: Alternative locations ...... 32 Figure 5-1: Daily average temperature for Central Maldives with percentile bands ...... 36 Figure 5-2: Probability of precipitation at some point in the day for Hulhulé, Maldives ..... 37 Figure 5-3: Windrose diagram based on data from Kaadedhdhoo Airport ...... 39 Figure 5-4: Average daily relative humidity with percentile bands ...... 41 Figure 5-5: Longshore currents around Maarehaa on the day of the field visit ...... 43 Figure 5-6: Bathymetry of relevant areas within the project site ...... 44 Figure 5-7: Schematic representation of barrier island processes ...... 45 Figure 5-8: South end thundi (left) and north end thundi (right) at low tide ...... 47 Figure 5-9: Beachrock on the west (left) and east (right) sides of Maareha ...... 47 Figure 5-10: Attributes of marine environment ...... 51 Figure 5-11: Benthic cover of the reef at survey site 1 ...... 52 Figure 5-12: Status of the reef at site 1 ...... 52 Figure 5-13: Benthic cover of the reef at survey site 2 ...... 53 Figure 5-14: Overall status of reef at Site 2 ...... 53 Figure 5-15: Benthic cover of the reef at survey site 3 ...... 54 Figure 5-16: Overall status of reef at Site 3 ...... 54 Figure 5-17: Benthic cover of the reef at survey site 4 ...... 55 Figure 5-18: Coastal vegetation on the northeast section of Maareha ...... 57 Figure 5-19: Inner vegetation with cleared areas ...... 57 Figure 5-20: Coastal vegetation on the western side ...... 58 Figure 5-21: Cyclonic wind hazard zones (adapted from RMSI/UNDP 2006) ...... 60 Figure 5-22: Survey locations, bathymetry and illustrated summary of site conditions ...... 61 Figure 5-23: Beach profiles taken around the island ...... 62 Figure 5-24: Photographic summary of conditions of the terrestrial environment ...... 63 Figure 5-25: Photographic summary of conditions of the marine environment ...... 64

Proponent: Moving International Pvt. Ltd. Page | v Consultant: Ahmed Zahid (EIA08/2007) EIA for the proposed Resort Development on GA. Maareha

Table of Tables

Table 3-1: Matrix of key inputs of the proposed project ...... 25 Table 3-2: Matrix of major outputs ...... 26 Table 4-1: Advantages and disadvantages of the no project option ...... 28 Table 5-1: Key meteorological information ...... 35 Table 5-2: Summary of general wind conditions in Maareha ...... 38 Table 5-3: Summary of wave condition in Maaehaa ...... 40 Table 5-4: Marine water quality results ...... 48 Table 5-5: Groundwater quality results ...... 49 Table 7-1: Impact evaluation scale ...... 70 Table 7-2: Impact matrix for the proposed project ...... 71 Table 7-3: Impact potential indices for the proposed project ...... 72 Table 7-4: Summary of socio-economic and environmental impacts of the project ...... 81 Table 7-5: Summary of mitigation measures ...... 82 Table 8-1: Environmental monitoring programme for the proposed project ...... 85 Table 8-2: Estimated cost of the proposed monitoring programme (annual) ...... 85

Proponent: Moving International Pvt. Ltd. Page | vi Consultant: Ahmed Zahid (EIA08/2007) EIA for the proposed Resort Development on GA. Maareha

Consultants Declaration

This EIA has been prepared according to the EIA Regulations 2007. I certify that the statements in this Environmental Impact Assessment study are true, complete and correct to the best of my knowledge and abilities.

Ahmed Zahid (EIA 08/07)

29 July 2012

Proponent: Moving International Pvt. Ltd. Page | vii Consultant: Ahmed Zahid (EIA08/2007) EIA for the proposed Resort Development on GA. Maareha

Proponent’s Declaration

As the proponent of the proposed development I guarantee that I have read the report thoroughly and that to the best of my knowledge all information provided here is accurate and complete.

Name: ......

29 July 2012

Proponent: Moving International Pvt. Ltd. Page | viii Consultant: Ahmed Zahid (EIA08/2007) EIA for the proposed Resort Development on GA. Maareha

Commitment letter

LETTERHEAD

Mr. Ibrahim Naeem

Director General

Environmental Protection Agency

Ameenee Magu

Malé

Dear Sir,

This is in reference to the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report for the proposed resort development on GA. Maareha.

As the Proponent of the project, we assure you our commitment to undertake the proposed mitigation measures and monitoring programme given in the EIA Report.

Sincerely,

Proponent: Moving International Pvt. Ltd. Page | ix Consultant: Ahmed Zahid (EIA08/2007)

EIA for the proposed Resort Development on GA. Maareha

Executive Summary

This report addresses the environmental concerns of the proposed development of a resort on Maareha, Gaafu Alifu Atoll. The island is about 16.5hectares in its size and is located on a shared reef system at the eastern side of Gaafu Alifu Atoll. The Proponent of the proposed development is Moving International Pvt. Ltd., a company registered in the Maldives for the purpose of establishing Maareha as a tourist resort in connection with the development of a domestic airport on Maavaarulu in Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll.

The Proponent proposes to develop a modern resort on Maareha with 100 rooms on land and 50 rooms in the lagoon with 2 restaurants, a coffee house, swimming pool, Dive Center, Water Sports Center, Sports Center with gymnasium, Wellness Center or Spa, a theatre, Kids Center with day care services, arrival and service jetties with mooring area or harbour, staff village with shops and different utilities including desalination plant, sewage treatment plant, waste management center and powerhouse. Removal of seagrass beds on the east…….

The proposed development will conform to all current environmental legislation including the Regulation on the Protection and Conservation of the Environment in the Tourism Industry. The main negative impact of the proposed development will be the impact of sedimentation on the areas of the housereef on the west where the proposed harbour and access channel will be developed and the impact of deforestation due to land clearance for proposed buildings. These impacts are inevitable. Yet, every effort will be made to minimize the impact and footprint of the impact. The impact of sedimentation on the reef will be minimized by undertaking the excavation at low tides and creating settlement basins as the dredging activity proceeds or by using silt screens. To minimize the impact of deforestation, buildings will be designed around mature trees minimizing their removal. If a mature tree were to be removed, they will be carefully uprooted and transplanted elsewhere. Impact of water villas is considered to be minor negative given that they are in the lagoon and at a considerable distance from the housereef. The minor negative impacts of the water villas include impacts on sediment transport around the northwestern side of Maareha and some minor degree of sedimentation on the reef nearby. There will be no impact on neighbouring Medhuhutta, which is about 50m, due to the strong currents in the channel between the two islands (over 0.5m/s) helping them to behave as two separate littoral systems. However, there are uncertainties given the lack of data and hence monitoring hydrodynamics and changes to

Proponent: Moving International Pvt. Ltd. Page | xi Consultant: Ahmed Zahid (EIA08/2007) EIA for the proposed Resort Development on GA. Maareha shoreline of both islands during the construction as well as operational phase will further help to evaluate this impact more accurately. To minimize this impact on longshore sediment transport, the walkways of water villas will stand on piles with their footings buried in the seabed. The impact of sedimentation will be minimized by taking care to move the water villas as far away from the live reef areas as possible and transplanting any live corals that may be directly impacted. Care will also be taken to minimize sedimentation on the reef when placing water villa footings and columns. Precast footings and columns will be used and excavator movements shall be minimized. Excavator is preferably moved on barge to minimize sedimentation and if high bed excavators were to be used, they shall move as far from coral reef flat areas as possible. This impact of sedimentation will be short-lived given that tidal and wind-driven currents would normally carry the sediments away from the reef at all tides and monsoons. It is vital, therefore, to monitor the condition of the reef prior to the start of works, during the works and after the works to establish the true nature of the impact.

The other environmental impacts of the proposed development include solid waste management, water supply, sewage disposal and energy generation. Solid waste will be generated both during the constructional and operational phase of the resort. Constructional waste will be disposed of by the contractor, to Thilafushi if a regional landfill or waste management site does not exist. During the operational phase, a waste management center established on the island will segregate waste and dispose of them in a manner prescribed in tourism regulations. It is during the construction stage that the waste is often not managed properly and waste ends up in the environment. Therefore, it is vital that waste management procedures are in place during construction phase to ensure waste is appropriately dealt with. Supervision and awareness of construction workforce is highly recommended. Desalination, sewage treatment and power generation are fuel-dependent processes and fuel efficient desalination technology, STPs and, especially, generator sets will be installed in the island. Solar water heaters have been proposed and photovoltaic system incorporated, the costs of which have already been taken into consideration. Gravity sewers will deliver the sewage and only a single pumping station will be used. Treated effluent with low levels of BOD (less than 20mg/l) will be disposed to the sea at not less than 10m below MSL and 5m away from the reef edge. Therefore, the impact from sewage disposal will be almost negligible. In fact, the daily peak flows is quite small that the proposed sea outfall would provide over 500-fold dilution to the sewage effluent even if it were raw sewage, which would occur only in the

Proponent: Moving International Pvt. Ltd. Page | xii Consultant: Ahmed Zahid (EIA08/2007) EIA for the proposed Resort Development on GA. Maareha unlikely event that the sewage treatment plant fails. Hence, no further mitigation measures have been considered for sewage disposal and treatment.

The project encompasses clean technology and an initial investment worth a million dollars would be spent on solar energy system. This will complement the proposed diesel generator sets. In addition, solar water heaters will be installed to provide hot water to all guest units. Also, to minimize fuel and water consumption, it is proposed to install energy and water efficient technology including faucets. The costs of these have already been included in the project.

Environmental monitoring has also been incorporated into the project. Arrangements for monitoring during constructional and operational phase will be considered immediately upon EIA approval. Monitoring will be undertaken according to the monitoring programme recommended in this report. Recommended monitoring for the project includes the monitoring of shoreline at predetermined and bench-marked tide level, beach profiles and drogues at locations given in the EIA report, marine water quality at the location of the intake, brine discharge, sea outfall and a control location, groundwater at a location close to the powerhouse and desalination plant and a control location and quality of product water at 3 specified locations including product water tank. Annual monitoring reports have to be submitted to the Environmental Protection Agency over the monitoring period and shall include fuel and water consumption data and greenhouse gas emission calculations.

The overall environmental impacts of the project have been assessed using appropriate matrices and the results indicated that the proposed project has net positive impact. Given that the project has major socio-economic benefits although there would be some negative environmental impacts, it is recommended to allow the project to proceed as proposed.

Proponent: Moving International Pvt. Ltd. Page | xiii Consultant: Ahmed Zahid (EIA08/2007) EIA for the proposed Resort Development on GA. Maareha

ާޞާލުޚ ާދާސ

ްށަޓްށެވާމިތ ްނުބަބަސ ެގުމުރުކ ްތަކްއަސަމ ެގުމުރުކ ީޤްއަރަތ ްއެޓޯސިރ ިއަގ ާހެރާމ .އގ ީކަޓޯޕިރ ިމ

ީތަމުރިއ ެގުޅޮތައ ުފިލައ ުފާގ ީކައ ާހެރމާ .ެވެކެޓޯޕިރ ާވިއަފިވެރުކުރާޔްއަތ ްނުތޮގ ެގުމުރުކްނާޔަބ ުރަވްނިމ ެނާރޯފ ުރަސައ

.އގ ުކެއާމުޅެއ ްއެޓޯޕާއެއ ިއަގުލުރާވާމ .ދގ ީކަރާޔިދެއ ެގުޢޫރްޝަމ ިމ .ެވެށަރ ެގުރަޓްކެހ 16.5 ަންނޮއ ިއަގުތާރަފ

.ެވެޑެޓިމިލ ްޓެވިއަރްޕ ްލަނަޝޭނަޓްނިއ ގްނިވޫމ ާވިއަފާދްއަފުއ ިއަގުދަޞުޤަމ ެގުމުރކު ީޤްއަރަތ ްޓޯސިރ ާހެރާމ

ިއަގުމަގްއެއ ިއަގުޓޯސިރ ިމ ޭވެރުކ ީޤއް ަރަތ ްށަރަވްނެފ ީނާމަޒ ްނެގްށޮކުޒާމައ ްށަންނުޓްސިރޫޓ ެގީތްނަފުދެމ

އަޅާ 100 ކޮޓަރިއާއި މޫދުގައި އަޅާ 50 ކޮޓަރީގެ އިތުރުން 2 ރެސްޓޯރެންޓް، ކޮފީ ހައުސް، ސްވިމިންގ ޕޫލް، ޑައިވް

ސެންޓަރ، ވޯޓަރ ސްޕޯޓްސް ސެންޓަރ، ޖިމް، ސްޕާ، ތިއޭޓަރ، ކިޑްސް ސެންޓަރ އަދި ޑޭކެއަރ ޚިދުމަތް ހިމެނެއެވެ.

ާދްއަފުއ ްޓްނަރަކ ިއާނެފ ެގުށަރ ިއަގޭރެތ ެގްއެޖެލިވ ްފާޓްސ ާދަހ ްށަތޮގޭވެލުކެއ ްއަތްތަމުދިޚ ްނެހިނެހެއ ިއާއަރާހިފ

ާލުފުއ ިތެކތަ ްށަށަރ ިއާކަމަލާފ ިއަކަޓްށަމުބޭފ ިއަރައ ްށަށަރ ިމ .ެވެއެނާވިއަފިވެރުކްމިއާޤ ްމާޒިނ ާލާތްއަނިނުކ ިއާއްމާޒިނ

.ެވެއެނެމިހ ްއެއީޓެޖ ްސިވާސ ްށަމުދެހ

ޭދްނަތ ްއެކަތުދިއާވަޤ ިއާކަތުނޫނާޤ ާހިރުހ ޭޅުގ ިއާމަކ ީނާދ ްނެގިވެރުކ ީޤްއަރަތ ިވެލާވަލުކެއ ުޢޫރްޝަމ ިމ

ަދ ްފޮއ ްނަޝޭވަޒްނޮކ ްޑްނެއ ްނަޝްކެޓޮރްޕ ަދ ްނޮއ ްނަޝޭލުއިގެރ" ިއަގްއެތގޮ ަޞްއާޙ ިއަގޭރެތ ެގީމ .ެވެންނިތަމ ެގްއެތޮގ

ޭވެދޭނ ެމްނެއ ްށަޓްށެވާމިތ ްނުބަބަސ ެގ ުޢޫރްޝަމ .ެވެއެވެރުކަގަހާފ "ީރްޓްސަޑްނިއ ްމަޒިރޫޓ ަދ ްނިއ ްޓްނެމްނަރަޔަވްނެއ

ުށަރ ިއަކަޓްށަމުރުކްތާރާމިޢ ިއާންނުބަބަސ ެގުމުނޮކ ަންނޮކ ިއަގުދްއަޙަރަސ ާރުކްތާގ ްށަމަލާފ ިއާރެނ ީނާރޯފ ުރަސައ

ްށަމުރުކަޑުކ ްއަތުރަސައ ޭވެދޭނ ެނާފްށޮކ ްށަޓްށެވާމިތ ްނުބަބަސ ެގުމަކްނަކިމ .ެވެންނުމުހެޖ ްނަޑނަކ ްސަގ ްއެއަބ ްނިއެރެތ

ެގުބނަލިކ ޭދެފުއ ުރިއަންނޮކ ްނުތޮގިމ .ެވެއެނޭވެރުކަޑުކ ުރަވްނިމ ެނާރޯފުރަސައ ްނެގްށޮކ ްއެމަކ ާހިރުހ ިރުހ ްނެވެރުކ

ަދަފ ްނީރްކްސ ްޓްލިސ ިއަކަޓްށަމުޓްއެހެފިހ ަތަވުނ ްށަކަތޮގެނޭބޮއ ްށަބާސިހ ަންނޮކ ެއ ުޑަގުބނަލިކެއ ްށަމުރުކަޑުކުރަސައ

ްށަކަތޮގ ަދަފ ޭހެޖުނ ްނަޑނަކ ްއަތްސަގ ިތެޑޮބ .ެވެއަފިވެރުކުދްޞަޤ ީނަވ ްށަމުރުކ ްނަކެއ ްނެގްށޮކްނުނޭބ ްއަތްތާލާއ

ޢިމާރާތްތައް ސެޓްކުރުމަށް ޙާއްޞަ ސަމާލުކަމެއް ދޭނެއެވެ. އަދި ކޮންމެހެން ނަ ަގން ޖެހިއްޖެ ނަމަ، އެގަސް ހުރިތަނުން

ެގުކަތިރަޓޮކުދޫމ .ެވެއަފިހެޖަމަހ ީނަވ ްށަމުރުކާލާއ ާދްނިއ ިއަގްއެނަތ ްނެހެއ ްސޮގްނެގ ްނެގިއަގަނ ުކެއާމކަ ިރެތާވުރަފ

Proponent: Moving International Pvt. Ltd. Page | xiv Consultant: Ahmed Zahid (EIA08/2007) EIA for the proposed Resort Development on GA. Maareha

ިއާރަފ ިއާބާސިހ ެއ ީއެއ .ެވެނޫނ ްއެމަކ ާވްނެގީށަކެއ ީކަމުރުކ ްށަރަފ ެގުށަރ ުރަސައ ެގުމުނޮކ ަންނޮކ ްށަމުޅެއ ްއަތުޑުބ

ްނުތޮގިމ .ެވެއެހެޖ ްނަލްށޮކަގަހާފ ްނަކެނާދުނ ްށޮކުނ ްއެކަތުރަސައ ޭވެދޭނ ެގްއެރަވްނިމ ަޑުކ ްސެވަމަނ .ެވެންނުމަކުރުދ

.ެވެކެމަކ ާވްނެގީށަކެއ ީކަމުއައ ްއެކަތުލަދަބ ްސެވެމްނޮކ ްށަރަވިއޮއ ަތަވުނ ްށަތޮގާރުކުރުއަދ ިލެވ ިއަގުތާރަފ ުރުތުއުގނަޅުހ

.ެވެއެނާފްށޮކ ްށަކަރަވްނިމ ްސެވެމްނޮކ ްސެވުރަސައ ެގުބނަލިކ ުރިއާރުކ ްތަކްއަސަމ ިއގަ ުކަތުބާސިހ ިރިއަކ ިއާރަފ ިދައ

ްއެރަސައ ްސެވްއެއ ުރަސައ ެގުކަތިރަޓޮކުދޫމ ާދަހ ަގާހެރާމ ްނުބަބަސ ެގުރަވިއޮއ ަނން ޮއ ޭރެތޭދ ިއާއ ާޓްއުހުދެމ ިއާއ ާހެރާމ

މެދުހުއްޓާއަށް ކޮށްފާނެކަމަކަށް ނުބެލެއެވެ. ނަމަވެސް، މިކަން ޔަޤީންވާނީ ދެރަށުގެ ވަށައިގެން އޮއި ދައުރުކުރާގޮތާއި ވެލި

ްނުމަލަބ ްނެދްނަވ ްއކެ ަތްސަވުދ ަނިގ ްނެގިށެފ ްނުހަވުދ ާށަފ ްތަކްއަސަމ ެގުމުދެހ ްޓޯސިރ ްތޮގ ާދ ްނުމަވުރުއަދ

ސް ެވުރިއ ަންނޮކ ުޅަފ ިއާރެނ .ެވެއެނާވްނަދްނެގ ްނުމަރުކ ރަޓިނޮމ ްނުދިއާވަޤ ްސެވުތަލާހ ެގުރަފ ިދައ .ެވެންނެގްސޮގްނެގ

ެނާރުކުނ ްށަރަފ ުރަސައ ެގުބނަލިކ ޭދެފުއ ްނެގިއަލަބ ްށަރަވިއޮއ ިއާރަވަޔިދ ްސެވުރިއ ަންނޮކ ްށަމުޅެއުޑުބ ެގުކަތ ިރަޓޮކުދޫމ

ްޑެބިއަހ ަތަވުނ ްނުޅުގްނެގ ަގްއެޖާބ ުރަޓވޭ ަކްސްކެއ ިދައ .ެވެއެނާވްނަރުކ ްތަކްއަސަމ ްށަމުރުކަޑުކ ަތަވުނ ްށަކަތޮގ

.ެވެއެނާވްނަރުކްތަކްއަސަމ ްނުރުދ ިއާރަފ ުކެއާމަކިރެތާވުރަފ ަމަނާރުކްނުނޭބ ްއެރަޓޭވަކްސްކެއ

ިއާމުލާތްއަނ ިނުކ ދޭ ެފުއ ުރިއާދ ްނުމަރުކްޓޭރަޕޮއ ްޓޯސިރ ިދައ ުރިއާދްނުމަގނިހ ްތަކްއަސަމ ެގުޢޫރްޝަމ ިމ

ްށަމުރުކަޑުކ ުރަވްނިމ ާރޯފ ުރަސއަ ްށަޓްށެވާމިތ ިއަގުމުނިދްތަމުދިޚ ެގުޓްނަރަކ ިދައ ްތަމުދިޚ ެގާމަދުރަނ ިއާނެފ

ްށަމުލާކުއ ިނުކ ިއަގުދްއަޙަރަސ ޭނެމިހ ްޓޯސިރ ިނުކ ޭދެފުއ ިއަގުޖޭޓްސ ާރުކްތާރާމިޢ .ެވެއެހެޖ ްނަރުކްތަކްއަސަމ

ެގުރަޓްކެރްޓްނޮކ ީކަމުލާކުއ ިނުކ ްސޮގްނެގ ްށަޓްށުފަލިތ ަމަންތެނ ްއނެ ަތ ަދަފެއ ަތަވުނ ްށަކަނަތ ާވިއަފިޅެއަޑނަކ

ުރިއާދްނުމަގނިހ ްޓޯސިރ .ެވެއެނާވްނަންނުހ ިއަފެވްމިއާޤ ިއަގުށަރ ްއެމާޒިނ ުޅަގަރ ެނާލާތްއަނ ިނުކ ިދައ .ެވެކެތަޔްއިލޫއްސަމ

ްނެހިނެހެއ ިއާރަޓރޭ ަނިސްނިއ ްނިތަމ ެގުތޮގ ާވިއަފާޅައަޑނަކ ިއަގުދިއާވަގ ްމަޒިރޫޓ ިއަކަޓްށަމުލާތްއަނ ްށޮކިކަވ ިނުކ

ްށަމުދްއެފުއ ުޓްނަރަކ ިއާނެފ .ެވެށަނަތްނަތ ާވިއަފިވެރުކަޞްއާޙ ްނަލާކުއިނކު ީނޭވެލާކުއިނުކ ިދައ .ެވެއެނާންނުހ ްއަތްތާލާއ

ްއަތްމާޒިނ ާރުކްނުނޭބ ްނުދަމ ަތަކަހ ްނުތޮގ ެގުމުރުކ ިރެތްތަމުޙަރ ާޓްށެވާމިތ ްއަތްތަކްއަސަމ ިއަހެމްނެއ ޭވެރުކ

ްނައިލިމ ްއެއ ްށަކަޑަގްތާގ ިދައ .ެވެއެނޭވެރުކްމިއާޤ ުރަޓީހ ރަޓޯވ ާލޯސ ާރުކުނޫހ ްނެފ ްނިވައ ިދައ .ެވެއެނޭވެރުކްމިއޤާ

ްތަމާލަސ ިށެވާމިތ ްނުނެފ ްސިޖަނ ިއާހިޖަނ .ެވެއަފިހެޖަމަހ ީނަވ ްސެވްށަމުރުކ ްމިއާޤ ްއެމާޒިނ ެގިއަތަކަހ ާލޯސ ެގުރަލޮޑ

ިއަގުޢޫރްޝަމ ީނަވ ްއެމާޒިނ ާރުކުފާސ ްނެފްސިޖަނ ިއާހިޖަނ ާވިއަފިވެރުކްމިއާޤ ްށަތޮގ ޭދނިހުނ ްނެފ ްށަމިބ ްނުތޮގ ެގުމުރުކ

ހިމެނިފައެވެ. އަދި މި ިނޒާމުން ސާފުކުރެވިފައިވާ ފެން ދޫކުރެވޭނީ ފަރުން ބޭރަށް 10މ އަޑިއަށެވެ. ވީމާ، ނަޖިހުގެ

.ެވެއެނާދްނެގިވެރުކ ަޑުކްށަޑޮބ ްށަރަވ ުރަވްނިމ ެނާރޯފ ުރަސައ ްށަޓްށެވާމިތ ްނުބަބަސ

Proponent: Moving International Pvt. Ltd. Page | xv Consultant: Ahmed Zahid (EIA08/2007) EIA for the proposed Resort Development on GA. Maareha

ިމ .ެވެކެޓޯޕިރ ޭހެޖ ްނަޅަހަށުހ ްނުދިއާވަޤ ީކަޓޯޕިރ ޭހެބ ިއާމުތަގެނެދ ްއަތުލަދަބ ާދްނުމަންނައ ްށަޓްށެވ

ަންނައ ްށަށޮދުޑޮގ ިއާކަތުލަދަބ ަންނައ ްށަރަވިއޮއ ާގނިހ ްނެގިއަށަވްށަރ ިއަގުކަތސާ ާރިދ ަދަފިމ ާރުކ ްނުށަދ ެގުޢޫރްޝަމ

ާވިއަފިކިހ ަގާޔިދިކިހ ިއާއަގިއަޔިދުޑޮބ ިއާލިއަފޮރްޕ ްޗީބ ްނުނަތްނަތ ާވިއަފާލަބ ިއަގާސާރިދ ިމ .ެވެއެނެމިހ ްއަތުލަދަބ

ސަރަޙައްދު ނުވަތަ ފެންގަޑު ހުންނަވަ ުރ، އަދި ފެނުގެ ކޮލިޓީވެސް ބަލަމުން ގެންދިއުން ހިމެނެއެވެ. މި ދިރާސާތަކަށް ފަހު

ްނުމަޅަހަށުހ ްށައ ީސްނެޖޭއ ްނަޝްކެޓޮރްޕ ްލަޓްނެމްނަރަޔަވްނެއ ްޓޯޕިރ ޭހެބ ިއާމުތަގެނެދ ްއަތުލަދަބ ާދްނުމަންނައ ްށަޓްށެވ

.ެވެއަފިއަޅައަޑނަކ ީނަވ ްށަމުއިދްނެގ

ޭވެލެބ ްށަމަކ ެނާރޯފުރަސައ ްށަޓްށެވާމިތ ްނުބަބަސ ެގުމަކްނަކ ާވިއަފާޅަހަށުހ ްނުށަދ ެގުޢޫރްޝަމ ިމ

ްނުބަބަސ ެގުޢޫރްޝަމ ިމ ްނުމުރުކްތަޔާއިރ ްށމަ ަކްނަކ ާވިއަފާޅަހަށުހ ްށަމުރުކަޑުކ ުރަސައ ެނާރުކ ްނުމަކްނަކ ެއ ިއާމަކްނަކ

(ްނިއ ްސްކިރްޓެމ) ްނުލަވާތ ާވިއަފާނަމިހ ިއަގުޓޯޕިރ ިމ ްށަމަކުޑޮބ ްއތަ ުރަސައ ާވްނެގިވެދެއ ެރުވ ްށަރަސައ ޭވެދޭނ ެނާރުކ

ދައްކާތީވެ، މި މަޝްރޫޢު ހުށަހަޅާފައިވާ ގޮތަށް ކުރިއަށް ގެންދިއުން އެންމެ ރަގަޅުކަމަށް ފެނެއެވެ.

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1 Introduction

1.1 Introduction

This EIA report has been prepared in order to meet the requirements of Environmental Protection and Preservation Act of the Maldives (Law No 4/93) to assess environmental impacts due to proposed resort development on Maareha, Gaafu Alifu Atoll. Clause 5 of Environmental Protection and Preservation Act (Law No. 4/93) of Maldives states that an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) study need to be carried out before implementing any development project which may have potential impacts on the environment. Resort development is an activity prescribed in Schedule D of EIA Regulation among activities that require Environmental Impact Assessment.

This report will identify the potential impacts of the proposed project and will recommend mitigation measures to minimize such impacts during construction and operation phase. The report will also look at the justifications for undertaking the proposed project components including alternatives to proposed components or activities in terms of location, design and environmental considerations. Impact mitigation measures and a monitoring programme before, during and after the development work would also be included.

The findings of this report are based on qualitative and quantitative assessments undertaken during a site visit made to the island from 26-31 January 2012 as well as professional judgment. The key limitation to this study is unavailability of long term site-specific baseline data, hence the impact assessment methodology has been restricted to field data collected, experience and professional judgment on similar settings across the Maldives and elsewhere. Long term data relevant to this report on specific aspects such as meteorology and climate were collected from global databases through secondary sources and published reports on Maldives.

This EIA report has been produced in accordance with the EIA Regulations 2007 which at present is being reviewed and revised. Currently, the EIA process is being administered by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) under the Ministry of Housing and Environment (MHE).

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1.2 Aims and Objectives of the EIA

This report helps to achieve the following key objectives.  Allow better project planning through identification of key impacts and measures for mitigating these impacts.  Ensure efficient resource use and minimize irreversible damage to the environment.  Ensure and allow informed and environmentally sound decision making.  To demonstrate the commitment by the proponent on the importance of environmental protection and preservation.

1.3 EIA Implementation and Methodologies

This study was based mainly on data collected during a field investigation mission from 26-31 January 2012 by a team from Sandcays Pvt. Ltd and published literature on similar settings. The EIA report was compiled by Ahmed Zahid, who is a registered EIA consultant with several years of experience. He was assisted by trained environmental surveyors at Sandcays, namely Mohamed Riyaz and Abdul Muheeth. Hussain Shaheed, a registered EIA Consultant, assisted in the field work, especially public consultations carried out during the field visit.

Established and widely accepted methods have been applied in this EIA study. Field studies have been undertaken using methods generally employed for EIA studies in the Maldives. The field assessment methodologies are described in Section Error! Reference source not found. of this report.

The methods used to identify, predict and assess impacts are based on matrices that have been established by the Consultants over a long period. In the matrix, the consultants assign a likert-scale number to represent the magnitude, significance, duration and spatial extent of the potential impact for each project activity against the key environmental and socio-economic components that the specific project activity may have an impact on. The product of the magnitude, significance, duration and spatial extent for each activity and component is summed up to measure the exact nature of the impacts by each activity and the overall impact of the proposed project is the sum of all activities.

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2 Legislative and Regulatory Considerations

This section will 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. The proposed project is expected to conform to all of the policy and regulatory aspects outlined below.

2.1 Policy Guidance

2.1.1 National Framework for Development 2009‐ 2013

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

Policy 1: Strengthen EIA process with an emphasis on EIA monitoring.

Policy 2: Conserve and sustainably use biological diversity and ensure maximum ecosystem benefits.

Policy 3: Develop resilient communities addressing impacts of climate change, disaster mitigation and coastal protection.

Policy 4: Strengthen adaptation and mitigation responses for beach erosion and develop a system to assist communities where livelihood and property are affected by beach erosion.

Policy 5: Ensure management of solid waste to prevent impact on human health and environment through approaches that are economically viable and locally appropriate.

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Policy 6: Ensure protection of people and the environment from hazardous waste and chemicals.

Policy 7: Improve air quality to safeguard human health.

Policy 8: Enable a fully functional decentralized environmental governance system.

Policy 9: Develop a low carbon economy to achieve Carbon Neutrality by 2019.

Policy 10: Inculcate environmental values in the society and enable environmentally friendly lifestyle.

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

2.1.2 Third National Environment Action Plan

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

The aim of developing NEAP 3 is to protect and preserve country’s environment and properly manage natural resources for sustainable development of the country and encompasses ten principles, six strategic results with targeted goals to be achieved under each result.

The key principles of the NEAP 3 are:

Principle 1: Environmental protection is the responsibility of every individual

Principle 2: Achieve results

Principle 3: Promote and practice sustainable development

Principle 4: Ensure local democracy

Principle 5: Inter-sectoral co-ordination and co-operation

Principle 6: Informed decision making

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Principle 7: Precaution first

Principle 8: Continuous learning and improvement

Principle 9: Right to information and participation

Principle 10: Environmental protection complements development

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

2.1.3 Maldives National Strategy for Sustainable Development 2009‐ 2013

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

The guiding principles outlined in the NSSD are:

Principle 1: Promotion and protection of fundamental human rights

Principle 2: Equity within and between generations

Principle 3: Democratic and open society

Principle 4: Full participation of businesses and civil society

Principle 5: Policy coherence and coordination

Principle 6: Use best available knowledge

Principle 7: Precaution first

Principle 8: Make polluters pay

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

2.1.4 Waste Management Policy 2007

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. The developer shall follow any guidelines/regulations on waste management that the government may introduce.

Waste management during construction and operation of the proposed project will be guided by the relevant laws, regulations and policies related to waste in Maldives.

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 enforcing such guidelines through inter-sectoral collaboration;  Ensure safe disposal of chemical, hazardous and industrial waste.

2.2 Regulatory Bodies

2.2.1 Ministry of Housing and Environment

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

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2.2.2 Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

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

2.2.3 Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture

For this project, the Ministry of Tourism is the mediator between the Government and the Proponent. All communications including the EIA report shall be submitted through the Ministry of Tourism. The Ministry also has its own regulations and environmental standards for tourist establishments, which shall be strictly adhered to. Therefore, the Ministry will also monitor the environmental impacts of the development in collaboration with the EPA and the Atoll Council.

2.2.4 Atoll Councils and Island Councils

Under the Maldives Decentralization Law, elected Atoll Councils and Island Councils have been formed as regulatory bodies dealing directly with Atoll and Island issues. In this regard, some of the development projects are subject to approval of these councils through a public consultation process. For the proposed project, EPA requires that a copy of the final draft of the EIA Report be submitted to the Atoll Council and receipt provided to EPA or attached to the EIA report.

2.3 Laws and Regulations

2.3.1 Environmental Protection and Preservation Act

The Articles of the Environmental Protection and Preservation Act (Law No. 4/93) addresses the following aspects of environmental management, which are relevant, understood and adhered to in the proposed project.  An EIA shall be submitted to EPA before implementing any developing project that may have a potential impact to the environment.

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 Project that has any undesirable impact on the environment can be terminated without compensation.  Disposal of waste, oil, poisonous substances and other harmful substances within the territory of the Maldives is prohibited. Waste shall be disposed only in the areas designated for the purpose by the government.  The Penalty for Breaking the Law and Damaging the Environment are specified in the Law.  The government of the Maldives reserves the right to claim compensation for all damages that are caused by activities that are detrimental to the environment.

2.3.2 Land Act

The land Act of the Maldives (Law No. 1/02), formulated in 2002, makes legal provisions for releasing of lands for different needs, releasing of public land for housing and the conditions that govern the owning, selling, renting and transfer of ownership of public and private land. This island has been leased according to the requirements of the Land Act.

2.3.3 Consultation and Public Participation Laws

In the Maldives public participation has been limited to the review stages of the EIA until recently. However with the EIA Regulation 2007, which considers public consultation as an important and integral part of the EIA process, public consultation is a requirement for all EIA reports. Hence, this EIA has also taken public views into consideration. In fact, public consultation was conducted in order to take stakeholder opinions, views and expectations into the project and not simply to fulfil the obligations under the EIA Regulation.

2.3.4 Regulation on the Protection and Conservation of Environment in the Tourism Industry

This regulation has been formulated under the Maldivian Tourism Act (Law No: 2/99) which stipulates the standards for the protection and conservation of environment in the Maldives tourism industry. The purpose of this regulation is to protect the environment and promote sustainable development within the industry. Under clause 2.4, it is required for all resort development projects to carry out an EIA and submit the EIA report to concerned government authorities for environmental clearance before commencing any construction work.

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2.3.5 Regulation on Cutting Trees

The Regulation on cutting down, uprooting, digging out and export of trees and palms from one island to another was issued by the Ministry of Environment in 2006. Clause 5 (a) of the Regulation states that prior to the commencement of any project(s) that would require the indiscriminate removal and export of trees/palms from one island to another for the purpose of agriculture, development/redevelopment, construction or any other purpose, it is mandatory under the Regulation to prepare an Environmental Impact Assessment report.

Article 8 (a) requires permission be obtained from Ministry of Environment, if more than 10 coconut palms that are of a six of 15 ft (from base of the palm to the tip of the palm frond) are cut, uprooted or relocated to another island. The regulation also ensures the replacement of the vegetation that is lost by imposing the planting of two palms for every palm tree that is cut or uprooted (Article 2 (d)). Logging on inhabited islands must be done under supervision of the islands chief or an official appointed by the island chief (now Island Council) (Article 8 (c)).

The proposed resort involves clearing not more than 30% of the land area of the island of Maareha as per the allowance recently revised by the Cabinet, however, the proposed concept involves clearing within the former allowance of 20%. Yet, if mature trees were to be removed, they will be removed with caution and transplanted elsewhere. No major trees are expected to be felled under the project. Buildings and walkways will be planned around them.

2.3.6 Regulation on Environmental Liability

The Environmental Liability Regulation (Regulation 2011/R-9) came into force on 17 February 2011 covers a wide range of issues which enable charging penalties and compensation due to environmental pollution and environmental damages. Apparently, the key objective of the environmental liability regulation is to practice polluter pay principles in the Maldives. The proposed project will cut down on environmental liabilities and polluting practices will be almost completed abandoned.

2.3.7 Desalination Regulation

Desalination Plant Regulation (2002) states that all sea water desalination plants installed and intended to supply water to 200 or more people or large scale agricultural needs or tourism related activity need to be registered prior to the operation of the plant. Therefore, it would be

Proponent: Moving International Pvt. Ltd. Page | 9 Consultant: Ahmed Zahid (EIA08/2007) EIA for the proposed Resort Development on GA. Maareha necessary to consider the impacts of desalination plant in this EIA so that registration can be done without further environmental scrutiny. Desalination plant registration is required to be renewed every five years. Therefore, regular monitoring shall be ensured in order to carry out and efficient renewal process.

2.3.8 Powerhouse Registration Guidelines

Guidelines for the registration of powerhouses have been issued by the Maldives Energy Authority recently. According to these Guidelines, all power plants need to be registered and environmental clearance is required prior to registration. Therefore, this EIA will look at the environmental aspects of power generation proposed for Maareha resort in order to assist the powerhouse registration process.

2.4 International conventions, treaties and protocols

The major global issue facing the Maldives is climate change, global warming and subsequent sea-level rise. The small size of the islands and their low elevation above MSL makes possible impacts of it very seriously. Consequently, the country plays a prominent role in fore-fronting environmental issues faced by many other small islands developing states including the Maldives in the international arena. The Maldives is therefore, a party and signatory to various international conventions and declarations. These include:  UN Convention on the Law of the Sea – UNCLOS (1982)  International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution of the Sea by Oil (1982)  Vienna Convention for the Protection of the Ozone Layer (1985)  Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer (1987)  Basel Convention on the Control of Trans-boundary Movement of Hazardous Wastes and their Disposal (1989)  The London Amendment to the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer (1990)  Agenda 21 and the Rio Declaration of the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (1992)  Convention on Biological Diversity (1992)  United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (1992)  The Copenhagen Amendment to the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer (1992)

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 The Montreal Amendment to the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer (1997)  The Beijing Amendment to the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer (1999)  Washington Declaration on Protection of the Marine Environment from Land-Based Activities  Kyoto Protocol to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (1998)  Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety (Maldives acceded on 2 September 2002)  United Nation Convention to Combat Desertification (2002)

The Maldives is also a key player in formulating and adopting various regional plans and programmes to protect the environment by continuously participating in various activities organized by regional bodies such as SACEP, ESCAP and SAARC. As a result the Maldives is committed to the following.  SAARC Environment Action Plan adopted in 1997 in Male’  SAARC Study on Greenhouse Effect and its Impact on the Region  South Asian Regional Seas Action Plan and Resolutions concerning its implementation (1994)  SAARC Study on Causes and Consequences of Natural Disasters, and  South Asian Seas Programme initiated by SACEP  Male’ Declaration on Control and Prevention of Air Pollution and its likely Transboundary Effects for South Asia (1998)

Some of the international conventions, treaties and protocols of relevance to the proposed project may be identified as follows:  United Nations Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Kyoto Protocol which aims at minimising greenhouse gases to reduce or combat potential impacts of global climate change, global warming and associated effects such as sea level rise, which are thought to have devastating impacts on the Maldives, a fragile small island nation. The aspects of the proposed project that apply to this convention are the importation and transport of raw material to site using diesel based vessels, use of excavators and other machinery in the construction phase, especially their emissions as well as the use of pumps which consume electricity from diesel generators emitting greenhouse gases. These are inevitable impacts; however, efforts should be made to minimize all such impacts. These are discussed in the impacts mitigation section.  United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity (UNCBD) with the objective of “the conservation of biological diversity, the sustainable use of its components and the

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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”. Maldives was one of the first nations to ratify UNCBD. Maldives has developed the National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP) in 2002. Formulation of NBSAP was through wide consultation and extensive stakeholder participation. As mentioned earlier, there has been extensive consultation and environmental surveys undertaken to ensure that biological diversity is not affected due to the implementation of the proposed project.

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3 Project Description

3.1 Project Proponent

The project is proposed by Moving International registered in the Maldives. The registered address of the company is Ma. Aapia, Kaaminee Magu, Malé.

3.2 Project Location

Maarehaa is located on the eastern rim of Gaafu Alifu (North Huvadhoo) Atoll at 0o27'41.75"N and 73o33'50.00"E. Figure below shows the location of Maarehaa within the atoll. It shares its reef with two other uninhabited islands: Medhahutta and Dhiyadhoo, of which Dhiyadhoo became uninhabited after the couple of hundreds of people moved to Gemanafushi of their own decree. Gemanafushi is on the south of Maareha and Dhiyadhoo on the north.

Figure 3-1: Location of Maarehaa, Gaafu Alifu Atoll

3.3 The Project

The Project involves the development of a modern resort on Maareha with 100 rooms on land and 50 rooms in the lagoon with the following facilities.  Main Restuarant  Ala-carte restaurant

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 Coffee House  Swimming Pool  Diving Centre  Water Sports Centre  Sports Centre with Gym  Wellness Centre (SPA)  Theatre  KIDS Centre with Day Care Services  Guest Jetty with arrival pavilion  Service Jetty  Utilities Centre  Staff Village with Stores

3.3.1 Accommodation

At Maareha Resort accommodation would be categorized into three types. There would be 70 standard rooms, 40 Deluxe Rooms and 40 Overwater Rooms. All the rooms will have the following amenities:  Satellite TV  Internet availability  Mini Bar  Sundeck with chairs  King –sized bed  Coffee making facilities  Sofa with coffee table  Deluxe rooms will have the following additional facilities: - Jacuzzi - Separate sitting area - Outdoor garden bath

3.3.2 Food

Maareha Resort would have three main food outlets – The Main Restaurant, Ala-Carte Restaurant and the Coffee House.

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The Main Restaurant would be able to cater for 200 guests and would cater mainly to the guests opting for the All-Inclusive Stay Plan. The Kitchen would serve a variety of set meals arranged in buffet style.

The Ala-Carte Restaurant would serve speciality dishes from Asian, Thai, Lebanese and Indian Menus with areas of the restaurant being designated, designed and themed according to the speciality. There would be separate kitchens setup for these specialities as well.

The Coffee House would be open throughout the day and would serve beverages and light meals and snacks.

3.3.3 Recreation

Maareha Resort will have the following sports and recreational facilities  Swimming Pool  Diving Centre  Water Sports Centre  Sports Centre with Gym  Wellness Centre (SPA)  Theatre

3.4 Environmentally Significant Activities

The main activities of the resort development that may have impacts on the environment are:  Land clearance (up to 30% of island vegetation);  Channel dredging, jetty and/or harbour construction;  Sand pumping for beach nourishment and construction activities;  Infrastructure construction including power house, water desalination plant, sewerage plant, oil storage tanks, waste management facility and hardware workshop;  Construction and operation of accommodation, restaurants, spa, sports and marine centre facilities (include an A3 land use map);  Coastal protection works including groynes, breakwaters, sea walls;  Temporary facilities  Utilities including power, water, wastewater, waste and fuel

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The following subsections looks at the details of these environmentally sensitive elements of the proposed project.

3.4.1 Land clearance

Clearing of land will occur within about 20% of the total registered land area of the island. However, recently, the cabinet had decided to increase the allowable limit of development on resort islands to 30%. Although this is the case, it is noteworthy that the design of this resort had considered the previously allowed limit.

The vegetation clearance will be undertaken with care to minimize removal of mature trees to the greatest possible extent. As has been in the past, areas will not be cleared during stakeout of the buildings and pathways to get the line of sight for stakeout. Instead, state of the art real- time GPS technology will be used to stakeout footprint areas of buildings and pathways. Furthermore, mature trees within the development footprint will be carefully replanted elsewhere.

3.4.2 Dredging activities

The proposed project involves the dredging of channel and harbour basin. The dredged material would be used for beach nourishment and any excess would be used for building. The location and size of the channel and harbour area is given in the site plan shown in Figure 3-2. This location has been chosen as it provides safer access compared to other areas and has less impact due to dredging. These aspects are further discussed in the alternatives as well as impacts section of this report.

The dredging is proposed to be undertaken using excavator. At the reef entrance, a barge will be used to dredge the material that will be placed on the barge and transported to the island. Excavator beds will not be created as they would impact sediment transport regime. Excavator beds also increase the time frame and increases resuspension, therefore, no excavator beds would be created, especially closer to the reef. The area to be dredged would be staked out using accurate real-time GPS positioning system. The dredging activity will be carried out in the least possible time frame to minimize the duration of the impact and so minimize the impact of sedimentation.

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Dredged sand would be stockpiled on the backshore for sieving and subsequent use in beach nourishment and as a building material. Only excess sand and rubble would be used for building purposes.

3.4.3 Coastal modifications

Coastal modifications, apart from the channel and mooring basin dredging activities described above would include beach nourishment using dredged material, removal of seagrass bed on the eastern side and soft shore protection measures, especially groyne fields on the west and eastern shoreline.

Beach nourishment will be undertaken during the construction phase and will continue into the operational phase. Beach nourishment will be undertaken on the western shoreline as well as the eastern shoreline using material dredged from the dredging of the channel and harbour or mooring area. About 10m of lineal beach is expected to be created in all areas. More than sufficient quantities of sand would be dredged from the channel and mooring area dredging. Excess material including sieved rubble would be used for construction purposes. Beach nourishment will be undertaken by using sand that has been sieved at site to represent the existing beach material. If direct filling of beaches using dredged material is done, it would leave a lot of rubble to be managed during the operational phase. Therefore, direct filling or filling with un-sieved sand with rubble will not be considered.

Seagrass beds on the eastern side of the island are considered to be a result of nutrient loading from the neighbouring inhabited islands. Since this area is beach front for guestrooms and seaweeds or seagrass is considered to be a nuisance and aesthetically unacceptable in the context of the Maldives, the seagrass bed needs to be removed. However, its removal may have negative impacts on the shoreline behind it as the seagrass had probably acted as a natural barrier to wave action. Therefore, it may be necessary to provide some degree of structural protection in the area. There are two options: (1) remove seagrass only from the nearshore area sufficient to create clear lagoon areas for swimming or (2) remove the entire seagrass bed and provide artificial reef offshore to protect the beaches further. The latter would provide added protection while the former would require continuous removal of seagrass from the cleared areas as seagrass tends to grow back in the area. The seagrass that is removed will be used to condition soil in the nursery as well as other plantation areas of the resort.

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Soft shore protection measures will be considered during the constructional phase. The shore protection measures will be designed towards the end of the construction phase, based on at least six months of monitoring of coastal hydrodynamics. The details of this would be shared with the Ministry of Tourism and the Environmental Protection Agency. Shore protection measures will ensure that beach areas have minimal structures, especially seawalls and revetments. A tentative coastal protection plan is given in the Appendix. This plan indicates the use of fish-tail groynes with submered fish tails, will be considered where relevant. In other areas, artificial reefs or submerged nearshore breakwaters would be considered. The reason is to minimize the impact of structures on sediment transport around the island. Both the groyne fields as well as the submerged breakwaters would be made of rock boulders to increase wave absorption and for longevity of the structure. However, depending on the cost, geotextile containers may be used. Yet, sand-cement bags and other easily breakable material would not be used. Alternatively, long term beach nourishment using pumped sand and without any structural protection may be considered. In this case, an area would be identified during the course of the construction period. The frequency of such beach nourishment would be about in every six months depending on seasonal changes to shoreline. A sand pump will be kept in an offshore location, most probably on the eastern periphery of the proposed harbour basin to minimize aesthetic impacts as well as impacts on the sediment transport regime. Larger but shallow pits would be preferred over small, deep pits because deep pits tend to have a greater negative impact on sediment regime as it acts as a sink.

3.4.4 Temporary facilities

Temporary housing of labour will be considered at the onset of the project. In order to minimize the impacts of inter-cultural mixing, priority will be given to employ local labour to the greatest possible extent. Yet, labour camps will be developed in the proposed staff areas. Temporary labour camps will be developed only on actual development footprint areas and other areas would not be cleared for temporary facilities. Temporary facilities will be developed on areas where similar permanent structures such as powerhouse will be located. Therefore, utilities such as powerhouse, fuel tanks, desalination plant and waste management center will be developed at the early stages of the construction of the resort. All constructional waste will be taken to specified area, segregated and sent to landfill upon demobilisation from site. Constructional waste management procedures will be in place.

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3.4.5 Desalination Plant

Water supply demand of the proposed resort will be met through seawater desalination using Reverse Osmosis desalination plants of capacity 1500m3/day with a backup plant of the same capacity. Rainwater will be collected to supplement desalinated water, especially during the rainy season. Rainwater tapped from staff area roofs would also be treated using UV technology. However, rainwater would be an undependable source and rainwater collection and use would be limited. Groundwater would not be used as per the requirements of the Regulation on the Protection and Conservation of Environment in the Tourism Industry. Also, as per the requirements under the same Regulation, water storage sufficient for 5 days for an estimated total population of 420 persons including staff at an average minimum of 100 litres per person per day (i.e. 200 tons) would be installed. Feed water will be drawn from a borehole at the location of the desalination plant and brine discharge will be under the arrival jetty, as in many resorts. The location is suitable given that there will be no hyper-salinity issues and that the pipelines would be hidden and protected.

Guests would be provided with bottled water for drinking while desalinated water produced on the island is supplied for other basic needs such as bathing, laundry, washing, gardening etc. Desalinated water would also be provided for staff consumption; therefore, the quality of the water will be maintained within drinking water standards acceptable to the EPA and the Ministry of Tourism. Water quality will be tested using onsite water test meters for pH, Conductivity, free and residual chlorine regularly and samples sent to laboratory for analysis as required by EPA.

Desalination plants will be installed according to the requirements of the Maldives Desalination Regulation and all plants will be registered with the EPA once the EIA Decision Statement is received. Personnel working inside the RO plant premise will only be subjected to noise levels exceeding 85dB(A) at intermittent periods not exceeding half of an hour. This is acceptable by all international standards, yet ear muffs would be provided on site for personnel to use.

Groundwater will be strictly conserved according to the requirements of the Tourism Regulations and Regulation on the Protection and Conservation of the Environment in the Tourism Industry. Groundwater monitoring will be undertaken to ensure that groundwater pollution is controlled and negative impacts are immediately mitigated.

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Water network design and details are currently in progress and will be made available to EPA as and when required.

3.4.6 Powerhouse and fuel storage

Diesel generator sets of capacity 650kVA will be installed in the resort’s powerhouse for electricity generation with backup facility. The electrical supply will be of 3 phase and high voltage cable. Powerhouse and all related facilities will be installed according to the requirements of Maldives Energy Authority. The details of the proposed power grid will be made available to the Energy Authority during the application for the registration of powerhouse. The primary requirement in terms of environmental protection at powerhouses is that the noise level outside the powerhouse building at the facade shall not exceed 55dB(A). Therefore, adequate noise insulation will be done inside the powerhouse to ensure this standard is met. Generator sets will be placed on anti-vibration mounts and noise insulation baffle walls will be used. Ear muffs will be provided to staff working in the powerhouse and staff will not work inside the powerhouse except for intermittent periods. Control room would be sound proofed.

Diesel fuel will be stored in two tanks outside the powerhouse. As is the normal practice, the fuel tank would have an appropriately sized bundwall outside the tank to contain accidental spills and leakages. Day tanks will be utilized to provide fuel to the generator sets. Exhaust stacks will be connected to each generator set. Each exhaust stack will be above 6m from the ground level and facing the proposed sewage treatment plant. There will be no buildings in the critical path of the concentrated flume.

Electricity will be distributed through low voltage underground cables. Underground distribution system also consists of distribution substations, distribution feeder boxes, and service cables. Glass reinforced polyethylene (GRP) distribution boxes will be used and the distribution cables will be made of four core copper conductors insulated on the outside with polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and steel armoured mechanical protection for physical protection.

Fuel will be transported to site by registered or approved fuel suppliers. A fuelling system will be installed at the jetty head, which will deliver fuel to fuel tanks in the island. At least five- day supply of fuel would be stored. Cooling water system will be from the same setup as the desalination plant.

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In addition to fuel-efficient engines, energy conservation will be a high priority. Energy saving devices will be used in all operations of the resort. Energy saving lights will be used along with solar and LED lights. Solar water heating systems will deliver hot water to all rooms. A solar grid is proposed for the island with a proposed initial investment of up to 1million dollars.

3.4.7 Sewerage System

During the operational phase, wastewater will be treated using a wastewater (sewage) treatment plant (STP). The capacity of the treatment plant and pumping stations will be based on an estimated average of 150litres per person per day of wastewater. Treated effluent will be discharged into the sea at a depth of about 10m below MSL and at 5m from the reef edge. An activated sludge type packaged treatment plant will be installed and the smell will be contained. The details of the proposed system will be made available to EPA before commencing installation of this facility. Treated effluent will be used for gardening and toilet flushing and excess effluent will be discharged into the ocean beyond the house reef. Sludge will be treated using sludge drying beds at the facility and treated sludge will be used as a fertilizer for gardening and landscaping of the resort.

According to the EPA, currently there is no requirement for the approval of sewerage system designs from the EPA. There have not been any sewerage system design approvals or registration requirements for sewerage systems similar to desalination plants so far. In fact, there are no regulations for sewage and wastewater disposal in the country at present. Design Criteria for Sewerage Systems issued in January 2007 has been widely used in the past few years and has been recently published on EPA website. The sewerage system in the proposed resort on Maareha will meet the Criteria.

Where dewatering is required for pump stations, they will be done and water that is pumped will be put back into the nearby areas, although it may not help to replenish the aquifer. In fact, since the aquifer will not be used for any purpose, it will get back to normal within a short period of time and the impact of dewatering would be minor. Only some freshwater dependent plants would be affected, which is not found on the island.

Wastewater reticulation system drawings have not been developed so far and will be submitted to EPA if and when required. Since wastewater is treated and the outfall is at quite a considerable distance from the island in all appropriate locations, it may be disposed in any

Proponent: Moving International Pvt. Ltd. Page | 21 Consultant: Ahmed Zahid (EIA08/2007) EIA for the proposed Resort Development on GA. Maareha location. The recommended location based on currents is the southwestern or western side where there will be good mixing and dilution due to ever present currents in the channel. The likeliness of materials moving towards the shore from these locations would be minimal given that the current is generally into the atoll lagoon. Although treatment is considered, an emergency overflow will be considered in the design. The outfall pipe will be placed ad anchored to the seabed using anchor blocks carefully placed on the seabed by experienced divers. Corals will be protected during the installation.

3.4.8 Waste Management

All solid waste infrastructure required for resorts as per the Tourism Regulations will be installed on the island. These include incinerator, recycling bins, bottle crusher, compactor and general waste bins. Solid waste generated on the island will be transported to K.Thilafushi or designated landfill site in the region for proper disposal. During the construction phase, the main waste stream including kitchen waste, waste from temporary accommodation blocks, hazardous waste (e.g. spent oil) and waste from office blocks will be collected in designated bins for different groups of wastes (e.g. plastic, packaging, paper, glass, waste food etc.). Green waste collected during site clearance will be mulched and used as fertilizer for landscaping. In addition to these daily wastes, spillages during unloading of material would be of concern. Therefore, unloading processes will be properly supervised.

Furthermore, hazardous wastes such as grease, waste oil from gensets and machinery, empty paint and varnish cans, batteries, water proofing and other finishing chemicals will be generated during the construction phase. They will be collected in separate areas and send for appropriate disposal at Thilafushi or other designated landfill in separate and appropriate packaging.

During the operational phase, similar sorts of wastes will be generated. Solid waste generated on the island will be segregated on site and transported to Thilafushi or similar landfill site for proper disposal on contract basis. Recycling and reducing waste would be encouraged, especially among staff. Sludge from the sewage treatment process will be UV-treated on site and used as fertilizer and excess sent to landfill or disposed in a safe manner acceptable to EPA and the Ministry of Tourism.

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3.4.9 Landscaping

Narrow walkways will be incorporated and existing walkways will be utilized as much as possible. Local species will be used for landscaping. Coral transplantation and regeneration exercises will be undertaken for those corals in dredge areas and would need protection and preservation.

3.4.10 Emergency Response Plan

As a means of addressing potential fire hazards, fire fighting equipment that meets the requirements of Tourism Regulations and National Fire Code will be developed with all necessary equipment including fire hydrants, fire extinguishers. Services of rescue with all necessary equipment will be made available. An emergency response plan will be developed with details of equipment, human resource and procedures. The following will be considered in the emergency response plan:  Level of protection to be provided;  Equipment - fire fighting equipment (fire hydrants, fire extinguishers, etc.), rescue equipment (land and water), communication and alerting systems, oil spill containment  Response time;  Emergency access and evacuation procedures;  Personnel and training requirements.

3.4.11 Equipment, Machinery and Tools

In the construction phase key activities based on the proposed concept include site preparation, mobilization of materials and equipment, temporary accommodation and services for labour force, development of water supply, sewerage and power generation facilities, construction of arrival and service jetties, landscaping and demobilisation. Machinery and tools used for these activities would be in good condition and used under strict supervision. Heavy vehicles such as excavators, bulldozers and trucks would be kept in designated areas and existing or project specific paths would be used. No additional paths would be created for their movements. Movements on the beach would be restricted or minimized.

The operational phase would not involve the use of heavy equipment. However, the machinery and equipment used during operational phase such as heavy duty washing machines, air-conditioning units, desalination plants, sewerage treatment plant and generator

Proponent: Moving International Pvt. Ltd. Page | 23 Consultant: Ahmed Zahid (EIA08/2007) EIA for the proposed Resort Development on GA. Maareha sets would be energy efficient. All air-conditioning units would use HFC or HCFC (RC134a) and refrigerants would be to the requirements of the Montreal protocol (and circulars issued by the Ministry of Environment regarding the Montreal protocol from time to time). Solar water heaters would be used for water heating.

3.4.12 Transport

The heavy transportation involved in the operation of the proposed new resort is considered to be one of the activities that would cause direct impact to environment similar to other such settings across the Maldives. The overall per capita carbon footprint will be very high in all such operations in Maldives, as the Maldives is highly dependent on light and heavy fuel dependent sea transport system. Guests will be transferred on speed boats and planes while goods and materials will be supplied on Dhoni. The environmental concerns anticipated are mainly due to contributions to global warming as a result of carbon emissions. The resort will join with the national efforts to minimize country wide carbon emissions as the Maldives is one of the first countries to sign the Kyoto Protocol. The President has recently announced that the Maldives shall be carbon neutral by 2020. Therefore, a carbon neutrality plan will be prepared and executed for the resort and planned transportation would be a main focus of the carbon neutral plan for the resort.

3.5 Tourist Activities and Services

The resort is all about tourist activities and services. The fragile marine ecosystem would be subjected to stress from several tourist activities such as snorkelling, diving and disposal of wastewater and that would be the main concern while the stress on natural resources such as fuel would be an indirect and yet an important concern. With increasing focus on the enforcement of environmental regulations, the resort would have the necessary plans to manage tourist activities and services including adherence to Diving Regulations, Desalination Regulations, wastewater disposal guidelines, Solid Waste Management Regulations, Whale Shark Tourist Encounter Guidelines, HACCP Plans as per the requirements of the Food and Drug Authority, Fire Code, Regulation on the Management and Control of Products with HFC and HCFC and most importantly environmental mitigation measures proposed in the EIA report. Energy and water conservation policies will be implemented. International conventions such as Kyoto Protocol, Montreal Protocol, United Nations Framework Convention on Biological Diversity and other such conventions to which

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Maldives is party to, will be strictly respected. Protected areas, protected marine life, protected birds and banned exports will be made known to tourists, staff and all concerned.

3.6 Project Inputs and Outputs

The project has inputs in terms of human resources, natural resources and machinery. The main output of the project is Maareha developed and operated as a tourist resort. The inputs and outputs are summarised in Error! Reference source not found. and Error! Reference source not found..

Table 3-1: Matrix of key inputs of the proposed project Input resource(s) How to obtain resources Construction workers Contractor’s responsibility Management and maintenance staff Appointed by proponent Construction materials:- timber, cement, thatch Import and purchased where locally available at roofing materials, concrete blocks, electrical cables, competitive prices – Contractor’s responsibility circuit boards, main circuit boards, reinforcing steel bars, river sand, aggregates, telephone cables, PVC conduits, PVC pipes, paint, varnish, thinner, roofing sheets, floor and wall tiles, toilet fittings, diesel, petrol, tar etc Maintenance material Imported or locally purchased Water (during construction) Desalinated water and rainwater Electricity/Energy (during construction) Diesel-based electricity Machinery and equipment Contractor’s responsibility Water treatment chemicals ( e.g. chlorine, anti- Imported or locally purchased scalants, pool chemicals, etc) Fuel (e.g. diesel, petrol) Locally purchased Fertilizers (e.g. for gardening) Locally purchased or imported Soaps and Detergents (laundry and washing) Locally purchased Cleaning agents (floor cleaning, toilet cleaning) Locally purchased Bleaching agents (laundry washing) Locally purchased Electrical appliances (TV, Refrigerators, Air Locally purchased Conditioners) Communication (phones, fax machines, cables) Locally purchased Insecticides, pesticides, fungicides (pest control) Locally purchased Stationary products (pens, papers, files etc) Locally purchased Kerosene, LPG Locally purchased Diving equipment (snorkeling gears) Locally purchased or imported Water bottles Purchased locally or imported

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Table 3-2: Matrix of major outputs Products and waste materials Anticipated Method of disposal quantities Waste oils from machinery Minute To designated landfill once works are over Cleared green waste Small Stockpiled for natural decompose/mulched on site Constructional waste (concrete and cement Considerable Taken to Thilafushi/other designated landfill debris) Used water bottles (PET) Considerable Taken to designated landfill for disposal Sludge (by product of sewage treatment) moderate Sun dried in a drying bed and either used as fertilizers or taken to designated landfill for disposal Wastewater effluent major Used in gardening, landscape, discharged into ocean after treatment Timber, cardboard and scrap metals major Recovered, reused , recycled and any leftovers (construction site waste) taken to designated landfill for disposal Used oil (waste oil), grease minute Reused, or taken to designated landfill for disposal Solid waste (kitchen waste, waste from Major/moderate Taken to designated landfill for proper disposal accommodation blocks, waste from office blocks) Bottles moderate Taken to designated landfill for proper disposal Garden waste moderate Stock piled for natural decomposition Hazardous waste (used pesticide bottles, moderate Taken to designated landfill for proper disposal insecticide bottles, health care waste etc)

3.7 Justification

Tourism is the main economic activity generating foreign exchange in the country. The proposed development of a tourist resort on Maareha will add to the state revenue generated from tourism (through bed and land rent and recently introduced goods and services tax) and subsequently help to improve public services and living standards. It will also provide direct and indirect employment and other income generating opportunities and help to address several social issues.

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Figure 3-2: Proposed development concept layout

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EIA for the proposed Resort Development on GA. Maareha

4 Project Alternatives

This section looks at alternative ways of undertaking the proposed project. There are two basic options: (1) leave the problem as it is (no project option), or (2) take measures to resolve the problem (undertake the project options). If the project were to continue, it would be necessary to take economic, ecological and social aspects of the project into consideration and ensure that these concerns exist within a delicate balance. Neither the economic benefits nor the social and ecological concerns can be avoided. Therefore, it is important to consider all options and ensure that the best available option(s) is/are chosen to solve the issues/problems.

4.1 No project option

It should be noted that the “no project” option cannot be excluded without proper evaluation. In this report this alternative was considered as the baseline against which to evaluate the other options. The no project option takes the following arguments into consideration:  The current bed capacity is sufficient and additional capacity may over-burden existing infrastructure such as the international airport(s).  The island shall be kept in its natural state for the benefit of future generations  Hotel development in closeby inhabited islands with potential use of the island for visitor recreation would be more profitable to local communities.

The main advantages and disadvantages of the no-project option are given in Table 4-1.

Table 4-1: Advantages and disadvantages of the no project option Strategy Advantages Disadvantages Additional bed capacity would surpass  Costs related to increasing capacity  Job opportunities would be hindered existing infrastructure of airports and related infrastructure  Direct and indirect benefits of the may be avoided project may not be felt  Loss of national revenue for current and future growth of the industry Island shall be preserved in its natural  Costs related to the proposed  Loss of national revenue and state for the benefit of future development may be avoided economic benefits to local generations  Island’s fragile ecosystem may be communities. protected from potential negative impacts of development Use of island as picnic island for  Direct and indirect economic  Regulation would be almost hotels in nearby inhabited islands may ventures in inhabited islands as a impossible due to lack of ownership create better economic opportunities result of the island and responsibility, therefore, low for locals and keep the island level of environmental protection. environment intact.  Appropriate financing mechanisms do not exist for local entrepreneurs to start up tourism ventures; therefore, economic revenue generated would be low.

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4.2 Alternative Location

There are several islands or islets on the eastern rim of Gaafu Alifu as well as Gaafu Dhaalu Atolls that the Proponent could have chosen. Since resort development is attached to the development of the proposed airport on Maavaarulu, a closeby island was considered to be more appropriate. Some of the appropriately sized islands nearby include the islands between Kanduhulhudhoo and Gemanafushi. Fenrehaa is one such alternative. However, the development footprint, especially the entrance channel as well as the harbour would be greater.

Maareha is on the north of Gemanafushi and is quite appropriate given that the housereef on the south adds value to the tourism product offered and the island provides easy access due to shorter distance between reef and shore compared to alternative location of Fenrehaa. There are also not many islets/islands in the same reef system as Maarehaa, which makes it less susceptible to boundary issues in the future. The Proponent wishes to consider ownership of neighbouring Medhuhutta, in a similar bid under the CSR component.

4.3 Alternative Uses of the Island

Due to the small size of the island, agriculture is not feasible on the island. Due to its close proximity to Gemanafushi, there may be the potential for the use of Maareha for future industrial activities of the people of Gemanafushi. However, since there are other islands sharing the shallow lagoon with Gemanafushi, these islands as well as the shallow lagoon would cater better for the development potential of Gemanafushi. Hence, as discussed above, tourism venture on Maareha is considered more appropriate than other islands in the area. The island is also quite suited for tourism given its natural setting, as discussed earlier.

4.4 Alternatives for Energy Generation

The proposed method of generating energy from diesel generators is considered to be the most reliable means at present. However, given the unstable nature of the world economy, it is important to find sustainable energy sources such as photovoltaic, OTEC, wave or wind energy systems. Wave energy systems, such as the one proposed for Vavvaru may be quite suitable for use in Maareha. Deep sea cooling (OTEC) such as that tried in Sun Island in 2009

Proponent: Moving International Pvt. Ltd. Page | 29 Consultant: Ahmed Zahid (EIA08/2007) EIA for the proposed Resort Development on GA. Maareha may also cater for about 40% of the energy needs of the proposed development. However, wind turbines would not be suitable due to aesthetics. These systems, however, have reliability and feasibility issues at the present time. Further research in to improved large scale applications is required. Large area is required for photovoltaic systems, however, the Proponent has incorporated photovoltaic system as a hybrid to the proposed diesel generators in support of carbon neutral goal of the Maldives.

It is better to avoid diesel based systems given their negative impact on the global environment. Diesel generators produce carbon dioxide, suphur dioxide and nitrogen oxides which contributes to global warming that is seemingly affecting global weather or climate system with potential sea level rise due to melting of polar ice caps. However, it shall be noted that the contribution to global emissions from any diesel generators used for the proposed project will be minute. Yet, the cumulative impact needs to be taken into consideration when choosing the best option.

4.5 Alternatives for Water Production

All resorts in the Maldives are required to setup desalination plants. Groundwater is required to be conserved. Therefore, desalination has been proposed for this project too. An alternative to fuel based desalination is a solar desalination plant. There are currently several systems available for solar desalination, however, these are small scale plants that could be used as backup. The diesel or fuel-based systems have negative environmental impacts while the solar desalination systems have very low environmental impacts. Solar desalination technology may also have high setup costs compared with fuel-based.

For desalination, there are two options for raw water: seawater or groundwater. Seawater is taken from a location offshore or from an intake well in the lagoon. Groundwater is not usually taken for desalination. However, since the groundwater aquifer is easily recharged, groundwater is certainly a cheaper source of intake water as the salinity is low and the energy requirement, therefore, is less. This is a recommended means where groundwater is not used for any other purpose. However, groundwater is necessary for transpiration by vegetation. Therefore, the small, superficial groundwater lens must be preserved. Hence, groundwater is best avoided. The use of boreholes that draw seawater from a depth much far below the groundwater lens has the advantage that water is well filtered, therefore, membrane life is longer and the need for large sedimentation tanks is avoided. However, it may be necessary to

Proponent: Moving International Pvt. Ltd. Page | 30 Consultant: Ahmed Zahid (EIA08/2007) EIA for the proposed Resort Development on GA. Maareha watch for anaerobic conditions at such depths giving rise to ammonia in the water which could lead to the formation of chloramines after treatment with hypochlorite. However, in the Maldives, reports of ammoniacal smell in raw water in systems where boreholes have been used are rare. Hence, this method is acceptable and has gained interest. The other minor disadvantage is that in case of failure of the borehole within the groundwater lens, there is a tendency that groundwater is drawn into the system. The same applies to ocean intake pipelines, the failure of which could cause salinization of the aquifer. In ocean intakes, impingement and entrainment are also causes for concern. In many resorts fishes get drawn into the pipeline (entrained) and can be found in sedimentation tanks. However, this can be avoided by using footvalves or filters. Therefore, both boreholes and ocean intakes (including lagoon intake wells) are recommended equally.

4.6 Alternatives for Sewage Disposal

Since the volume of wastewater generated on the proposed resort would be small (below 75m3/day), there is sound argument against wastewater treatment for such small scale operations as treatment is itself an energy intensive process. For such small wastewater systems, deep sea outfalls extending to over 5m off the reef edge is not expected to cause any damage to reef or cause ill-health to swimmers in the nearshore waters. The sea is a huge receiving body providing high rates of dilution (over 500 fold) and good hydrodynamic conditions usually taking the waste away from the point of discharge. Even then, the location of the outfall shall be chosen with care to ensure that wastewater is not disposed into the lee of the island at any given monsoon. Hence, usually the northwest to northeast and southeast to southwest is preferable for the disposal of untreated wastewater.

Nearshore disposal of wastewater and the disposal into the terrestrial environment including septic tanks are considered inappropriate in the context of the Maldives.

4.7 Recommended alternatives

Given their environmental benefits, it is recommended to consider clean energy technologies for power and water production in the island. However, wind turbines are not recommended as they can have visual impacts. Other systems are considered to have little or low aesthetic impacts, especially solar roofs, which could provide over 50% of the energy needs of the resort.

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Figure 4-1: Alternative locations

Indicate on A3 map alternative island of Fenrehaa and other potential locations. Also a separate layer/view port alternative locations of sewage disposal and brine discharge as well as water intake.

Alternative potential location

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5 Existing Environment

5.1 Introduction

This section covers the existing environmental conditions of Maarehaa, especially those areas which may be impacted by the proposed works. A detailed review of existing environmental conditions on Maarehaa and vicinity including social, cultural, environmental and economic aspects have been considered in the EIA report prepared for the development.

5.2 Methodologies

Conditions of the existing environment of the study area were analysed by using appropriate scientific methods. The environmental components of the study area were divided into marine, coastal and terrestrial resources. The marine environment of the island covered the house reef of Maarehaa. The coastal environment covered the beaches, the beach rock formations and coastal processes including longshore sediment transport, nearshore currents, tides and wave climate. The terrestrial environment covers the vegetation of the proposed coastal structures.

The different methods used in assessing and reporting the conditions of the existing environment of the island are given in the following subsections.

5.2.1 Location identification

The location of data collection sites have been marked using handheld GPS. Figure 5-22 shows the data collection and sampling locations. Beach profile locations have also been marked by permanent markers or bench marks on site.

5.2.2 Marine Water Quality

One of the main environmental components that would be affected by implementing the project would be marine water quality. Water quality was assessed during the field trip as it was assessed using a handheld water quality logger before. Water quality would be assessed at different locations within the impact zone. The locations, frequency and parameters to be monitored are given in the Monitoring Programme outlined at the end of this EIA.

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5.2.3 Coastal processes

Seven beach profiles were taken from designated locations around Maarehaa by means of standard levelling techniques. 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 when there occurs 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 30m from the Benchmark.

Long term monitoring of the coastal processes such as currents and tides will be undertaken at regular intervals in order to formulate an appropriate coastal zone management plan.

5.2.4 Marine Environment

Marine environmental surveys were conducted to collect data on key environmental components (i.e. the coral reef system) that will be impacted due to the development. Purposes of the surveys are to define and establish marine environmental baseline conditions for impact evaluation during and after the proposed project implementation. Surveys were based on standard marine environmental survey techniques (English, et al 2007) so that they can be repeatedly carried out to monitor and record changes and assess possible impacts on the marine environment from the proposed work activities as well as operation of the facility. These surveys should be continually repeated to assess the short-term and long-term impacts on the marine environment.

5.2.4.1 Coral Reef Surveys

Quantitative surveys were conducted to establish the status of the coral reef system of Maareha. Methodologies adopted for these surveys are internationally accepted and widely used to assess the status of coral reefs in the country as well. Photo Quadrates and visual observation of the reef were conducted at the coral reef system. Photo Quadrate technique has been used for objectives ranging from large-scale special problems to morphological comparison of coral communities and studies assessing impacts natural and anthropogenic disturbances.

Photo Quadrates were conducted at five locations of the reef as shown in Figure 5-22. These sites are representative areas within the reef system that can be monitored on long-term basis for assessing magnitude of possible impacts. Some of these areas may be most prone to any

Proponent: Moving International Pvt. Ltd. Page | 34 Consultant: Ahmed Zahid (EIA08/2007) EIA for the proposed Resort Development on GA. Maareha adverse impacts from the proposed work, therefore establishing permanent monitoring sites at these areas is important to assess the impacts.

5.3 Climate

The Maldives, in general, has a warm and humid tropical climate with average temperatures ranging between 26C to 32C and relative humidity ranging from 73 per cent to 85 per cent. The country receives an annual average rainfall of 1,950mm. There is considerable variation of climate between northern and southern atolls. Table 5-1 provides a summary of key meteorological findings for Maldives. General studies on climatic conditions of Maldives were taken into account during study as local level time-series data are limited for longer periods at the nearest meteorological station.

Table 5-1: Key meteorological information

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

5.3.1 Monsoons

Monsoons of Indian Ocean govern the climatology of the Maldives. Monsoon wind reversal plays a significant role in weather patterns. Two monsoon seasons are observed: the Northeast (Iruvai) and the Southwest (Hulhangu) monsoon. Monsoons can be best characterized by wind and rainfall patterns. The southwest monsoon is the rainy season which lasts from May to September and the northeast monsoon is the dry season that occurs 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.

Proponent: Moving International Pvt. Ltd. Page | 35 Consultant: Ahmed Zahid (EIA08/2007) EIA for the proposed Resort Development on GA. Maareha

5.3.2 Temperature

The temperature of Maldives vary little throughout the year with a mean daily maximum temperature of about 32C and mean low of 26C and are rarely below 25C or above 33C. The highest temperature ever recorded in the Maldives was 36.8°C, recorded on 19 May 1991 at Kadhdhoo Meteorological Office. Likewise, the minimum temperature ever recorded in the Maldives was 17.2°C, recorded at the National Meteorological Centre on 11th April 1978. The highest recorded temperature for Male’ was 34.1C on 16th and 28th of April 1973. The hottest month of the year is usually April reaching a peak around 24 April.

The figure below represents daily average low (blue) and high (red) temperature with percentile bands: inner band from 25th to 75th percentile and outer band from 10th to 90th percentile (source: weatherspark.com) based on the historical records from 1981 to 2011 at Hulhulé weather station.

Figure 5-1: Daily average temperature for Central Maldives with percentile bands

5.3.3 Rainfall

Annual average rainfall in the Maldives is about 1900mm. There is a marked variation in rainfall across Maldives with an increasing trend towards south. The annual average rainfall

Proponent: Moving International Pvt. Ltd. Page | 36 Consultant: Ahmed Zahid (EIA08/2007) EIA for the proposed Resort Development on GA. Maareha in north is 1977mm and for south is 2470mm. The southwest monsoon is known as the wet season with monthly average rainfall ranging from 125-250mm. The northeast monsoon is known as the dry season with average monthly rainfall of 50-75mm.

The following figure illustrates the likelihood that precipitation may occur at some point in the day on a given day, based on the historical records from 1981 to 2011 at Hulhulé weather station (weatherspark.com).

Figure 5-2: Probability of precipitation at some point in the day for Hulhulé, Maldives

Long term data indicate an average annual rainfall of 2200mm for Kaadedhdhoo. The intensity of rainfall is a concern in the Maldives since intensity is high with low frequency. However, excessive rainfall is not a concern for Maareha since the island does not cup towards the middle but rather diverts the runoff towards the shore, especially towards the western side.

5.3.4 Wind

Wind has been shown to be an important indirect process affecting formation development and seasonal dynamics of the islands in the Maldives. Winds often help to regenerate waves that have been weakened by travelling across the reef and they also cause locally generated waves in lagoons. Therefore winds are important here, as being the dominant influence on the sediment transportation process (waves and currents). With the reversal of winds in the

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Maldives, NE monsoon period from December to March and a SW monsoon from April to November, over the year, the accompanying wave and current processes respond accordingly too. These aspects have ramification on the seasonal sediment movement pattern on the islands and also the delivery/removal of sediments from the reef platform/island.

The two monsoon seasons have a dominant influence on winds experienced across the Maldives. These monsoons are relatively mild due to the country’s location close to the equator and strong winds and gales are infrequent. However, storms and line squalls can occur, usually in the period May to July; gusts of up to 60 knots have been recorded at Male’ during such storms.

Wind was 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 the Maldives during both monsoons, with a maximum wind speed recorded at 18 m/s for the period 1975 to 2001. Maximum wind speed recorded in the south was 17.5 m/s during the period 1978 to 2001. Mean wind speed was highest during the months January and June in the central region, while wind speed was in general lower and more uniform throughout the year in the southern region. Wind analysis indicated that the monsoon was considerably weaker in the south (Naseer, 2003). During the peak months of the SW monsoon, southern regions have a weak wind blowing from the south and south-eastern sectors.

Table 5-2 summarises the wind conditions in Maareha throughout the year and Figure 5-3 provides the wind-rose diagram typical to Maareha (adapted from windfinder.com). This analysis represents wind data from Kaadedhdhoo Airport taken between January 2005 to April 2012 daily from 0700 to 1900hrs local time.

Table 5-2: Summary of general wind conditions in Maareha Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Avg Dominant wind direction Wind probability 2 2 5 12 11 6 9 5 11 21 20 10 9 > = 4 Beaufort (%) Average wind speed 6 6 6 7 7 6 6 6 6 8 7 7 6 (knots) Average air temp (oC) 29 29 30 30 30 29 30 29 29 29 29 28 29

Since most of the project components including public areas, water bungalows, land villas as well as aqua villas and jetty face the western side of the island, which is protected from wind- generated waves during the southwest monsoon because the island is in the lee of several other reefs, these structures as well as the beach on the western side would not have severe

Proponent: Moving International Pvt. Ltd. Page | 38 Consultant: Ahmed Zahid (EIA08/2007) EIA for the proposed Resort Development on GA. Maareha wind and wave impacts. However, those structures on the north and southwestern end, including the jetty and the proposed semi water villas, needs to be carefully planned and protected from the effects of wind and wind-generated waves, during the southwestern monsoon. The western side would be usually in the lee of the island especially during the peak tourist season, which is the northeast monsoon.

Figure 5-3: Windrose diagram based on data from Kaadedhdhoo Airport

5.3.5 Waves

Wave energy is important for sediment movement and settlement, and it is also a crucial factor controlling coral growth and reef development. Waves have been attributed to the diversity and the abundance of coral and algal species. These aspects have implications for the type and perhaps the supply of sediment s into the island.

Studies by Lanka Hydraulics (1988 & 1989) on Malé reef indicated that two major types of waves on Maldives coasts: wave generated by local monsoon wind and swells generated by distance storms. The local monsoon predominantly generates wind waves which are typically strongest during April-July in the south-west monsoon period. During this season, swells generated north of the equator with heights of 2-3 m with periods of 18-20 seconds have been reported in the region. Local wave periods are generally in the range 2-4 seconds and are easily distinguished from the swell waves.

Distant cyclones and low pressure systems originating from the intense South Indian Ocean storms are reported to generate long distance swells that occasionally cause flooding in Maldives (Goda 1988). The swell waves that reached Malé and Hulhule in 1987, thought to

Proponent: Moving International Pvt. Ltd. Page | 39 Consultant: Ahmed Zahid (EIA08/2007) EIA for the proposed Resort Development on GA. Maareha have originated from a low pressure system of west coast of Australia, had significant wave heights in the order of 3 metres.

In addition, Maldives has recently been subject to earthquake generated tsunami reaching heights of 4.0m on land (UNEP 2005). Historical wave data from Indian Ocean countries show that tsunamis have occurred in more than one occasion, most notable been the 1883 tsunami resulting from the volcanic explosion of Karakatoa (Choi et al 2003). Maarehaa was not affected by the recent tsunami of 26 December 2004.

Maarehaa is exposed to high waves generated by swells combined with short-wind-generated waves travelling across the vast span of inter-atoll waters on the western side and surf and short wind-generated waves from the atoll lagoon on the south side especially during the northeast monsoon. Waves breaking on the western side would be generally weaker because of the wide reef extent and superficial bathymetry on this side. The overall result of wave influence on the morphodynamics of the island during the NE monsoon might be rapid deposition of sediment with shaping the island also taking place mainly during the NE monsoon but also during the SW monsoon.

Table 5-3: Summary of wave condition in Maaehaa Season Total Long Period Short Period NE - Monsoon Predominantly from E-S. High Waves From S-SW Mainly E-NE. High waves from E from W Transition Period 1 Mainly from SE-E From S-SW Mainly from NE-SE

SW - Monsoon From SE-SW. Mainly from S. High From S-SW Mainly from SE-S. High waves Waves also from W from E Transition Period 2 As SW monsoon From S-SW From SE-W. Higher waves from E

This aspect of climate will therefore have an effect on the design of any coastal infrastructure and water sports activities planned for the resort.

5.3.6 Evaporation Rates and Relative Humidity

Open water evaporation and transpiration from vegetation are very high. The high rates of evaporation and transpiration, especially owing to global warming, may be considered to add further to the evaporation rate and cause sea levels to fall in the future (Morner et al 2004). Evaporation rates are influence by wind, temperature and humidity and level of particulates in the air, studies of pan evaporation rates may yield misleading results as pan evaporation rates

Proponent: Moving International Pvt. Ltd. Page | 40 Consultant: Ahmed Zahid (EIA08/2007) EIA for the proposed Resort Development on GA. Maareha are influenced by the amount of sunlight hitting the pan, rather than other meteorological factors (Dawson and Spannagle 2009).

The figure below represents daily high (blue) and low (brown) relative humidity with percentile bands: inner band from 25th to 75th percentile and outer band from 10th to 90th percentile (source: weatherspark.com) based on the historical records from 1981 to 2011 at Hulhulé weather station.

Figure 5-4: Average daily relative humidity with percentile bands

5.4 Hydrography

5.4.1 Tides

Tides affect wave conditions, wave-generated and other reef-top currents. Tide levels are believed to be significant in controlling amount of wave energy reaching an island, as no wave energy crosses the edge of the reef at low tide under normal conditions. In the Maldives where the tidal range is small (1m), tides may have significantly important influence on the formation, development, and sediment movement process around the island. Tides also may play an important role in lagoon flushing, water circulation within the reef and water residence time within an enclosed reef highly depends on tidal fluctuations.

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5.4.2 Currents

Studies on current flow within a reef flat in Male’ Atoll suggests that wave over wash and tides generate currents across the reef platforms, which are also capable of transporting sediments (Binnie Black & Veatch 2000). However, available information suggests that tidal currents are not strong due to small tidal range.

Generally current flow through the Maldives is driven by the dominating two-monsoon season winds. Westwardly flowing currents are dominated from January to March and eastwardly from May to November. The change in currents flow pattern occurs in April and December. In April the westward currents flow are weak and eastward currents flow will slowly take place. Similarly in December eastward currents flows are weak and westward currents will take over slowly.

Studies on current flow process within a coral atoll have shown that waves and tides generate currents across the reef platforms, which are capable of transporting sediments on them. Currents, like waves are also modified by reef morphology. Under low-input wave conditions (0.5m heights) strong lagoon ward surge currents (>60cm/sec) are created by waves breaking at the crest. Studies on current flow across reef platforms have shown that long-period oscillations in water level cause transportation of fine-grained sediments out of the reef- lagoon system, while strong, short duration surge currents (<5sec.) transport coarse sediments from the breaker zone to seaward margin of the back reef lagoon. Always sediment accumulates at the lee of high-speed current zones. Generally zones of high current speed (jets or rips, 50-80cm/sec) are systematically located around islands.

Data on current speed and direction around Maarehaa was measured on the day of the field visit. These are given in Figure 5-5. However, spot data taken on a single day would not yield sufficient data to understand coastal dynamics. Therefore, long term monitoring of data will be recommended in the monitoring programme proposed for the resort.

Aspects relating to currents have a direct impact on the project, especially in the design of future coastal protection measures. Therefore, longterm monitoring of currents is important.

5.4.3 Bathymetry

Bathymetry of relevant areas of the site is given in Figure 5-6.

Proponent: Moving International Pvt. Ltd. Page | 42 Consultant: Ahmed Zahid (EIA08/2007) EIA for the proposed Resort Development on GA. Maareha

Figure 5-5: Longshore currents around Maarehaa on the day of the field visit

Proponent: Moving International Pvt. Ltd. Page | 43 Consultant: Ahmed Zahid (EIA08/2007) EIA for the proposed Resort Development on GA. Maareha Figure 5-6: Bathymetry of relevant areas within the project site PROPERTY OF SANDCAYS.PVT.LTD. THE AUTHORISED USE ANY KIND OR COPYING WHOLE PART THIS DRAWING, CONCEPT DESIGN USED ON PROJECTS AND SITES OTHER THAN SPECIFIED DRAWING IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED.

LEGEND

ADJESTED REEF LINE LOW TIDE LINE HIGH TIDE LINE VEGETATION LINE BEACH ROCK

BENCH MARKS BM-05 BM-06 +1.076 DEPTHS

Note: Adjusted outer reef line (based on satellite image).

BM-01

BM-02

BM-04

BM-03 +1.306

-

ISLAND - GDh. Maarehaa ATOLL - GA. Atoll CLIENT - Moving International. SCALE - As Shown SURVEYED DATE - 27th Feb 2012 SURVEYED BY - Muheeth and Riaz DRAWN BY - Riaz DRAWING DATE - 8th Feb 2012

REVISIONS: -

SANDCAYS PVT LTD

H. Alihuras, Lonuziyaaraiy Magu, Male', Maldives Tel/Fax: +960 3307675, [email protected] www.sandcays.com

P a g e | 44 EIA for the proposed Resort Development on GA. Maareha

5.5 Geology and geomorphology

Maarehaa is within a relatively large coral reef shared by two other islands: Medhahutta and Dhiyadhoo of which Dhiyadhoo was a lowly inhabited island until its people moved to nearby Gemanafushi island of their own accord during 2009. The island lies on the southeastern end of the reef. Maaehaa is located at about latitude of 0o27’N and longitude of 73o33’E.

The closest island to Maarehaa is Medhahutta, which lies towards the north and is less than two hundred meter from Maarehaa. The closest inhabited island is Gemanafushi, which is about 1.75 kilometres south of Maarehaa.

The perimeter of the island measures 2000 meters covering about 16.5hectares inside the mean tide line. The vegetated area of the island measures 1670 meters along its perimeter, within an area of about 15hectares.

Most beaches in the Maldives are formed from sand produced and delivered to the coast by healthy coral reefs mainly by the action of waves and reprofiled by the action of longshore currents. For reefs on the eastern rim, deposition occurs mainly during the northeast monsoon with reprofiling of the beaches during the southwest monsoon. However, deposition also occurs from the healthy reef on the west during the southwest monsoon. It appears that deposition from the eastern reef has been mainly responsible for the formation of the island with deposition from the western reef, especially during the southwest monsoon.

Sand bank Overwash deposition

Shoreface profile

Figure 5-7: Schematic representation of barrier island processes

According to the geological formation, vegetation and soil characteristics of the island, the island can be said to have been created from a nodal point in the southwest corner of the reef system. The eastern reef extent on the east is bigger than the western reef extent. The greater reef extent on the eastern side is due to long-period swells from the Indian Ocean emanating from the east. The swell and surf related currents around the island also creates a strong current in the channel between Maareha and Medhahutta as well as the channel between

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Maareha and Gemanafushi. The strong current in this channel together with the influence of swells within the channel probably creates the dynamic conditions observed in the south and southeast side of the island. Swell-induced currents are also diverted around the middle of the island and drag forces around the north and south corners could move sand towards the northwest and northeast given that the westerly flow is generally stronger. Net easterly flow may occur only during stormy southwest monsoon. As a result sand deposition occurs on the northwest southwest, where sandbars can be observed with some degree of seasonal shifts. The drag around the southeast corner is smaller due to the deeper channel between Maareha and Gemanafushi compared to the shallow channel between Maareha and Medhahutta. Consequently, the sandbar is more prominent on the northern end. This difference also would account for the beachrock that can be observed on the south of the eastern side beaches and the north of the western side beaches, especially during the northeast monsoon.

On the western side, Maarehaa faces the atoll lagoon and is protected by the huge deep inner lagoon at its outer reef. The gradually sloping and very much live reef on the western side, including the northwest and southwest as well as the southern reef provides a great degree of shelter from wind-induced currents during the southwest monsoon. However, the protection afforded to the western beaches during southwest monsoon at high tide is low; as a result erosion can be observed on the western beaches with exposed beachrock.

The eastern side appears to be suffering from erosion. This is the case in most of the islands on the eastern rim. However, this erosion is less evident and beaches are more stable in islands with shallow eastern lagoon in most similar islands on the eastern rim whereas seasonal erosion is more prominent on the western shoreline and often a cause for concern. Due to lack of data relating to littoral regime of the island, this aspect needs further research. During the field visit, western side beaches were observed to be wider than the eastern beaches; however, erosion can be seen on both sides. Exposed beach rock was more prominent on the eastern side compared to a few on the west side of the island.

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Figure 5-8: South end thundi (left) and north end thundi (right) at low tide

Figure 5-9: Beachrock on the west (left) and east (right) sides of Maareha

A further cause of long-term shoreline retreat is the rise in mean sea level relative to the land. In the future, the consequences of atmospheric pollution, and hence global warming, may include an acceleration of the increase in mean sea levels around the world. As a consequence, large parts of the coast of Maldives may begin to experience a net increase in sea levels. However, there are also theories that support that a reduction in sea level may occur around equatorial zones as a result of global warming and subsequent increases in sea surface evaporation (Mӧrner, etal 2004).

In recent centuries, Maldives may have slightly suffered from the increase in global sea levels, which has been averaging about 1mm to 1.5mm/year. This is because all islands of the Maldives are about a metre or two above mean sea level. As sea level rises relative to a beach, there is an inevitable tendency for the shoreline to move inland.

Proponent: Moving International Pvt. Ltd. Page | 47 Consultant: Ahmed Zahid (EIA08/2007) EIA for the proposed Resort Development on GA. Maareha

A proper lagoon can be seen at all sides of Maarehaa. But a proper lagoon can be appropriate at the west side of Maarehaa. The lagoon has a depth of average 1meter on the west side and around the island. The narrowest lagoon extent is on the southern side. The western lagoon consists of medium-fine size sandy floor, and scattered patches of coral colonies (patch reefs).The depth of the lagoon ranges between 0.3 to 1 metres, and the shallow ranges between 0.3 metres at mean sea level.

The island is surrounded by shallow lagoon consisting of mainly sandy lagoon floor (mostly fine sand and some unconsolidated rubble) on the western side and seagrass with coral patches on the eastern side. Seagrass can also be seen on the south and southeastern side. The top reef is quite wide on both eastern and western sides.

5.6 Water quality

5.6.1 Marine water quality

Marine water quality has been measured from representative locations around the island. The water quality results (in-situ as well as laboratory testing) are given in the table below. Copy of the lab test results are also appended to the report.

Table 5-4: Marine water quality results Units Site 1 Site 2 Site 3 Site 4 WGS84 51309.3273 50469.0011 50525.3218 51287.2625 GPS Location UTM 340717.8215 340177.7514 339924.5293 339604.0140 Temperature oC 28.74 28.91 28.66 29.07 E. Conductivity uS/cm 54.37 54.41 54.32 54.51 Total Dissolved Solids mg/l 35.34 35.36 35.31 35.43 Salinity ppt 35.86 35.89 35.83 35.96 Dissolved Oxygen mg/l 7.8 5.01 3.16 5.88 pH 8.13 8.07 8.09 8.12 Turbidity NTU 0.092 0.172 - 0.087 Total Suspended Solids mg/l 0 0 - 0 Phosphate mg/l 0.12 0.05 - 0.02 Nitrate mg/l 0.9 0.5 - 0.6 Ammonia mg/l 0.45 0.82 - 1.17 Biochemical Oxygen Demand mg/l - - - - Chemical Oxygen Demand mg/l 192 112 - 209

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5.6.2 Groundwater quality

Groundwater quality was tested for basic physical parameters in-situ at three locations including an existing well in the island and two other representative locations. The results are given in the table below.

Table 5-5: Groundwater quality results Units GW1 GW2 GW3 WGS84 50938.0830 50779.6229 51107.1876 GPS Location UTM 340102.4390 340264.6229 340296.2188 Temperature oC 27.28 28.41 28.10 E. Conductivity uS/cm 4.354 4.86 5.12 Total Dissolved Solids mg/l 2.83 2.61 2.92 Dissolved Oxygen mg/l 1.89 2.0 2.14 pH mg/l 7.90 7.82 7.96

5.7 Ecology

5.7.1 Marine Protected Areas and sensitive sites

As per the requirements of the TOR, Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) and ecologically important or sensitive sites such as breeding or nursery grounds for protectected or endangered species have been considered. There are no MPAs in the vicinity of the site. However, it shall be mentioned that the southeastern reef area is among some of the best dive spots in the country that is currently being visited by many. The Proponent believes that this adds to the competitive advantage of this island as a tourist destination.

5.7.2 Endangered species

No endangered species have been observed during the field visit. However, it is recommended that future monitoring and observations will keep a record of all encounters with endangered or threatened species.

5.7.3 Housereef of Maareha

Maarehaa has a well formed house reef around it. There are 2 uninhabited islands sharing the same reef, which is L-shaped. Dhiyadhoo was previoulsly inhabited but recently uninhabited because the people in Dhiyadhoo moved to Gemmanafushi.

Proponent: Moving International Pvt. Ltd. Page | 49 Consultant: Ahmed Zahid (EIA08/2007) EIA for the proposed Resort Development on GA. Maareha

Maximum linear length and width of the reef system are approximately 3.9km and 3.21km respectively. Perimeter around the outer reef is approximately 14km. Perimeter around the back reef is approximately 12km.

The reef slope is wider on the eastern side compared to the western side which faces the atoll lagoon. The reef slope on the western side is narrow and steeps gradually towards the sharp reef edge. The reef-flat is also wider on the eastern sides than in any other section of the entire reef. Geomorphology of Maarehaa coral reef is mainly influenced by currents created by the two monsoon system experienced in the country i.e. easterly currents in southwest monsoon and westerly currents in northeast monsoon, with the westerly currents being the dominant force due to oceanic swells on the eastern side.

Figure 5-10 shows attributes of marine environment of Maarehaa island system, their extent, quantitative photo quadrate reef survey sites and status of the reef in terms of percentage of benthic cover at these sites. Photo quadrates were conducted in representative sections of the reef and following attributes were recorded.  Massive corals  Sub-massive corals  Branching corals  Encrusting corals  Dead corals  Live corals of different coral categories and genera  Other benthos of the reef  Rubble  Sand

The following sub-sections provides results of the quantitative assessment of the coral reef of the island in terms of percentage benthic cover and general status of the reef.

Proponent: Moving International Pvt. Ltd. Page | 50 Consultant: Ahmed Zahid (EIA08/2007) EIA for the proposed Resort Development on GA. Maareha

Figure 5-10: Attributes of marine environment

Proponent: Moving International Pvt. Ltd. Page | 51 Consultant: Ahmed Zahid (EIA08/2007) EIA for the proposed Resort Development on GA. Maareha

5.7.4 Marine Ecological Survey Results

5.7.4.1 Site 1

Figure 5-11: Benthic cover of the reef at survey site 1

Photo Quadrate reef survey site 1 was located in the protruding section in east area of the reef. Figure 5-11 shows the results of the photo quadrate reef survey at Site 1. This section of the reef has mainly dead corals (82%).

Figure 5-12: Status of the reef at site 1

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5.7.4.2 Site 2

Site 2 was located on the southern reef.

Figure 5-13: Benthic cover of the reef at survey site 2

Figure 5-14: Overall status of reef at Site 2

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5.7.4.3 Site 3

Figure 5-15: Benthic cover of the reef at survey site 3

Site 3 was located on the southwest of the reef.

Figure 5-16: Overall status of reef at Site 3

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5.7.4.4 Site 4

Figure 5-17: Benthic cover of the reef at survey site 4

Site 4 was located on the northwest of the reef.

Figure 5-20: Overall status of reef at Site 4

5.7.5 Status of the coral reef

Assessment of the coral reef of Maarehaa by adapting Photo Quadrate coral reef survey method showed that the reef was in good condition in terms of percentage live coral cover and diversity of reef benthos including coral species. This assessment only provided the present status of the coral reef of Maarehaa Island.

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Coral reefs are very complex ecosystems and health or status of the coral reefs in terms of amount of live coral and other benthos is difficult to state as these attributes vary significantly depending on several causes of natural as well as anthropogenic factors. Some coral reefs naturally have low percentage live coral cover and diversity of other reef benthos. In many cases human induced factors have resulted in decreased amount of live corals and other reef benthos.

5.7.6 Floral Landscape

Maarehaa has matured vegetation with lots of young trees. The floral landscape is in its natural state except for a few areas where there are open areas, which could have been either natural or cleared for human access or for firewood. The vegetation can be considered diverse and representative of many other uninhabited islands of similar nature in the Maldives. However, there are no terrestrial landscapes of significance or unique in nature. No old trees that may require special efforts for their protection or preservation have been observed.

The landscape could be described as having two major types of vegetation: young vegetation on the coast line or vegetation line and mature inner vegetation. Stark differences can be noticed along the vegetation line and the vegetation on the inside of the island. The main types of mature trees in the island are coconut palms and Funa.

Maarehaa has lush tropical vegetation with a considerable number of mature trees all around the island compared to the size of the island although the vegetation is largely young.75% coconut palms covers the island. The other types of mature vegetation on the island are mainly wild screw pines or kashikeyo (Pandanus sp), sea hibiscus or dhiggaa (hibiscus tiliaceous) and funa (calophyllum inophyllum). Coastal vegetation is dominated by low bushes of sea lettuce or magoo (scaevola taccada) followed by screw pines or sea hibiscus. Dhiggaa (hibiscus tiliaceous) and kuredhi (Pemphis acidula) are also found among the coastal vegetation.

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Figure 5-18: Coastal vegetation on the northeast section of Maareha

Figure 5-19: Inner vegetation with cleared areas

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Figure 5-20: Coastal vegetation on the western side

5.7.7 Terrestrial Fauna

The only avian faunas observed during the survey were grey heron (maakanaa), black-naped tern (kirudhooni) and Maldivian little heron (raabondhi). However, various species of crabs and common garden ants were observed in the island. There were no signs of turtle nesting around the island beaches.

5.8 Socio-economic environment

Huvadhoo atoll is the largest natural atoll of the Maldives, administratively divided into two atolls; North Huvadhoo or Gaafu Alifu (GA.) and South Huvadhoo or Gaafu Dhaalu (GDh.). Gaafu Alifu atoll has 9 inhabited islands and 84 uninhabited islands and Gaafu Dhaalu has 11 inhabited islands.

The population of Gaafu Alifu Atoll was 8,262 and that of Gaafu Dhaalu was 11,013 in 2006. Census data indicated that there was almost negligible growth of population between 2000 and 2006 for Gaafu Alifu Atoll while the growth was slightly negative for Gaafu Dhaalu. The reason for the decline may be associated with the migration to Malé and central atolls for several reasons, mainly jobs. There are several people from Huvadhoo Atoll and other southern atolls working in the central atolls, which had been the focus of tourism until recently.

Proponent: Moving International Pvt. Ltd. Page | 58 Consultant: Ahmed Zahid (EIA08/2007) EIA for the proposed Resort Development on GA. Maareha

The fishing industry had been on the decline in the past decade or so with catches rising to a peak in 2006 and declining rapidly with around 50% of the total tuna production coming rom Huvadhoo Atoll (Adam 2006).

According to Adam (2006), decline in the fishing industry, fortunately, coincided with the entry of the tourism industry into Huvadhoo Atoll. 16 islands have been planned to be developed as tourist resorts in Huvadhoo Atoll of which 10 are in Gaafu Alifu Atoll. At the end of 2011, three resorts in Gaafu Alifu Atoll, namely Hadahaa, Funamaudua and Meradhoo have become operational. Maarehaa is expected to be added to this list within the next couple of years.

5.9 Natural hazard vulnerability

An island’s natural vulnerability depends on geographic and geomorphologic characteristics of the island. These include geographic features of the island and location of the island with respect to the country, the formation of the island, location of the island respect to the atoll, orientation of the island, region of the country where island is located, level of protection to the island from the reefs and other islands; area of the inland lake found on the island, width of the island’s house reef, coastal defence structures on the island, shape of the island and the area of the island. Although Maldives is generally considered to have moderate risk to natural hazards or disasters, islands across Maldives experience varying degree and magnitude of natural disasters.

The stormy weathers around the world are affecting coral reef systems directly and indirectly due to global climatic changes. Intense storms can wipe out the natural coral “recruitment” process (Daily Science, April 29, 2008) as a direct effect of climatic change. Healthy coral reef systems are vital assets to many economies around the world on which large numbers of island communities, including the Maldives, depend on a range of fisheries activities. In the Maldives, for instance, according to NAPA (2006), local demand on reef fishery has increased in recent years. Therefore, the concerns due to natural hazard vulnerability of coral reefs in the Maldives are very high, which needs a solution through local and global effort.

Referring to Suffir-Simpson Scale given in Figure 5-21, Maareha is considered a low vulnerable zone when cyclonic winds and storm surges over the Maldives are concerned and also low risk when tsunamis and earthquakes are concerned. The island falls under hazard

Proponent: Moving International Pvt. Ltd. Page | 59 Consultant: Ahmed Zahid (EIA08/2007) EIA for the proposed Resort Development on GA. Maareha zone 1 at Suffir-Simpson Scale 0, the maximum probable wind speed expected to be at 0.0knots as shown in the following figure.

Figure 5-21: Cyclonic wind hazard zones (adapted from RMSI/UNDP 2006)

Maareha has its own natural defence against ocean-induced natural hazards. The higher eastern ridge and robust coastal vegetation caters for such protection. In addition, the beach rock formations play an important role in protecting the island from ocean hazards. The seagrass beds on the east also afford some degree of protection, although they are considered an aesthetic nightmare.

Vulnerability of the islands of the Maldives to flooding and storm surges and possibly complete inundation is considered to be high due to increasing vulnerability to the effects of global warming such as melting of polar ice caps. As a result, sea level rise due to climate change has uniform hazard throughout the country (RMSI/UNDP 2006). However, there are theories that support that high rates of evaporation in the tropical Indian Ocean may cause water levels to go down although pan evaporation studies may indicate of only evaporation due to sunlight falling on the pan excluding other meteorological factors.

Rainfall in the Maldives is such that regular flooding caused by heavy rainfall is a somewhat annual occurrence especially for those islands with low lying areas towards the middle of the island. For Maareha, such flooding is not considered to be a cause for concern. Swell or storm surges have also been rarely reported.

Proponent: Moving International Pvt. Ltd. Page | 60 Consultant: Ahmed Zahid (EIA08/2007) EIA for the proposed Resort Development on GA. Maareha Figure 5-22: Survey locations, bathymetry and illustrated summary of site conditions PROPERTY OF SANDCAYS.PVT.LTD. THE AUTHORISED USE ANY KIND OR COPYING WHOLE PART THIS DRAWING, CONCEPT DESIGN USED ON PROJECTS AND SITES OTHER THAN SPECIFIED DRAWING IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED.

LEGEND

ADJESTED REEF LINE LOW TIDE LINE HIGH TIDE LINE Q01.0 VEGETATION LINE BEACH ROCK Q01.1 QUADRATS

SITE 01 DROGUES Q04.0 Q01.2 DR-05 (0.60m/s) DREDGED AREA WQ01 Q04.1 Q01.3 BENCH MARKS WQ04 BM-05 BM-06 +1.076 Q04.2 DEPTHS Q01.4 Q04.3

SITE 04 Q04.4 DR-01 (0.24m/s)

Note: Adjusted outer reef line (based on satellite image).

DR-04 (0.17m/s) DR-06 (0.15m/s)

BM-01

-0.392 +0.010

-0.092 -0.483 BM-02

+0.364 -0.117 -0.287

BM-04

BM-03 +1.306

Q03.0

Q03.1 SITE 03

Q03.2 WQ03 - ISLAND - GDh. Maarehaa Q03.3 WQ02 ATOLL - GA. Atoll Q02.4 CLIENT - Moving International.Pvt DR-03 (0.12m/s) Q03.4 SITE 02 Q02.0 Q02.1 Q02.2 Q02.3 SCALE - As Shown SURVEYED DATE - 27th Feb 2012 SURVEYED BY - Muheeth and Riaz DRAWN BY - Riaz DRAWING DATE - 8th Feb 2012

DR-02 (0.62m/s) REVISIONS: -

0M 50M 100M 200M 500M SANDCAYS PVT LTD

H. Alihuras, Lonuziyaaraiy Magu, Male', Maldives Tel/Fax: +960 3307675, [email protected] www.sandcays.com

P a g e | 61 EIA for the proposed Resort Development on GA. Maareha Figure 5-23: Beach profiles taken around the island

Profile 1 2 1.5 1 0.5

Datum (MSL) 0 Profile 5 0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 -0.5 1.5 Distance (Meters) 1

0.5

Profile 2 Datum (MSL) 0 0 5 10 15 20 25 30 1.5 -0.5 1 Distance (meters) 0.5 0

Datum (MSL) -0.5 0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 -1 Profile 6 Distance (meters) 1.5 1 0.5 Profile 3 0

Datum (MSL) 0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 1.5 -0.5 1 -1 Distance (meters) 0.5 0

Datum (MSL) -0.5 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 -1 Profile 7 Distance (meters) 1.5 1 0.5 Profile 4 0 Datum (MSL) 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 1.5 -0.5 -1 1 Distance (meters) 0.5

Datum (MSL) 0 0 20 40 60 80 100 -0.5 Distance (meters)

Proponent: Moving International Pvt. Ltd. P a g e | 62 Consultant: Ahmed Zahid (EIA08/2007) EIA for the proposed Resort Development on GA. Maareha Figure 5-24: Photographic summary of conditions of the terrestrial environment

01 02 03 04 05 06

20 07

20

BM-05 BM-06 +1.076 17 19 16

12 01 19 08

02

13

11 03 14 18 10 BM-01 15

09 18 BM-02 09

04 08 BM-04 06 07 BM-03 +1.306

05

17 10

16 15 14 13 12 11

Proponent: Moving International Pvt. Ltd. P a g e | 63 Consultant: Ahmed Zahid (EIA08/07) EIA for the proposed Resort Development on GA. Maareha Figure 5-25: Photographic summary of conditions of the marine environment

01 02 03 04 05 06

20 07

01

16 02 03

17 19 08

BM-05 BM-06 +1.076 05 19 04 18 20

18 BM-01 09

BM-02

BM-04

BM-03 +1.306

11 12

13

17 10

15 10

06

14 09 07 08

0M 50M 100M 200M 500M

16 15 14 13 12 11

Proponent: Moving International Pvt. Ltd. P a g e | 64 Consultant: Ahmed Zahid (EIA08/07) EIA for the proposed Resort Development on GA. Maareha

6 Stakeholder Consultations

The key stakeholders of the project include Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Ministry of Housing and Environment, Environmental Protection Agency, Proponent and Atoll Council.

6.1 Scoping Meeting

The scoping meeting was attended by the Ministry of Tourism, representative from Gaafu Alifu Atoll Council, Ministry of Housing and Environment, the EPA, the Proponent and the Consultant. The meeting was convened by Ibrahim Naeem from the EPA. The main issues identified in the meeting are as follows:  EPA was concerned about the proposed dredging of a long access channel with mooring area instead of a long jetty with minimal dredging. The Proponent said that this would provide safer access during rough weather. It would also be better to incorporate mooring or harbour during the construction phase so as to avoid dredging works during operational phase.  The harbour, its size and location was discussed and it was agreed that it is in an appropriate location and of an appropriate size. However, impacts of dredging shall be considered in the report.  Neighbouring Medhahutta and related boundary issues – Client wishes to incorporate that island as part of the resort under CSR component so that boundary issues would not be a cause for concern.  Removal of seagrass – EPA suggested that regrowth shall be considered and regular maintenance of cleared areas would be required.  EPA inquired if the resort would be opened before the airport and the likeliness that the airport may not be built for a long time? According to the Proponent, both projects would happen at the same time and, as per the Agreement between the Government and the Proponent, the resort cannot be opened unless the Airport is operational.  Vegetation clearance was discussed – EPA reminded the Proponent of the necessity to take heed of the deforestation guidelines (Regulation on removal of mature trees). Proponent indicated that all mature trees would be transplanted, however, very old coconut palms may be used for construction purposes.

Proponent: Moving International Pvt. Ltd. Page | 65 Consultant: Ahmed Zahid (EIA08/2007) EIA for the proposed Resort Development on GA. Maareha

 Impacts on faunal habitats such as Maldivian water hen (kanbili) need to be minimized. Proponent indicated that there would be very minimal disturbance. In fact, the area to be cleared/built up area is well within 20% and would adhere to that although Government had recently decided to allow up to 30% built up area.  Similar to plants, live coral in impact areas need to be transplanted, according to EPA.  EPA required that there shall be Council Consultations – Gemanafushi and/or Kodey.  EPA also required that the EIA report shall be delivered to Atoll Council and receipt attached to EIA.  According to EPA, no waste shall be taken to nearby islands but only to designated landfill only. The necessity to have a landfill in Huvadhoo Atoll was also highlighted.  EPA recommended that the Proponent shall contribute in every way they can towards the implementation of carbon neutral policies in their resort.  EPA required that the EIA report shall be project specific in all aspects especially impacts and mitigation measures.  EPA reminded the Proponent of the requirements for water and wastewater system to have emergency outfall. EPA also recommended having the water storage and treatment plant as far apart as possible because there is aesthetic/public health concerns raised by tourists in some resorts although there may not be any cross- contamination.

6.2 Stakeholder Consultations

Consultations were held with Gemanafushi Council and other stakeholder participants at the Council Office on 21 January 2012 with representation from the Client and Consultant. The following participated in the meeting.

1. Mr. Ahmed Zahir, Managing Director, Moving International

2. Mr. Ali Ashraf, Project Manager, Moving International

3. Mr. Hussain Shaheed, EIA Consultant (Blue Print Pvt. Ltd.)

4. Mr. Mohamed Riyaz, Technical Team, Sandcays Pvt. Ltd.

5. Mr. Abdul Muheeth, Technical Team, Sandcays Pvt. Ltd.

6. Mr. Asim Mohamed, President, Gemanafushi Council

7. Mr. Ajwad Mohamed, Vice President, Gemanafushi Council

Proponent: Moving International Pvt. Ltd. Page | 66 Consultant: Ahmed Zahid (EIA08/2007) EIA for the proposed Resort Development on GA. Maareha

8. Mr. Mohamed Hashim, Gemanafushi Council

9. Mr. Fiyaz Hassan, Gemanafushi Council

10. Mr. Mohamed Salih, Gemanafushi Council

A brief description of the proposed project at Maarehaa Island was explained to the participants of the meeting by Mr. Ali Ashraf and the client’s commitment to facilitate in providing opportunities to the local community of Gemanfushi and nearby islands was explained by Mr. Ahmed Zahir. Relevant concerns were then raised by the members of the Island Council and the Harbour Committee. The following points were noted.  Mr. Ashraf explained that the developer intends to invest in 150 room resort hotel on the island of Maarehaa. In addition to a domestic airport will be developed on the nearby island of Maavaarulu in Gaaf Dhaal Atoll.  It was also informed that both projects will run hand in hand and thus providing job opportunities in the construction and operation of the airport and resort to the surrounding island communities.  Mr. Zahir expressed that it will be a priority of the developer to involve the local community at all phases of the project beginning with the construction phase to the operational phase of the development. Such opportunities will include provision of job prospects and trade with Gemanafushi and nearby islands with the resort.  Some skepticism was raised by one of the members of the community as to the reasons for developing an airport in G.Dh. and the resort in G.A. In response to this Mr. Zahir explained that the decision for this was made by the government and not the developer, since this project was taken by Moving International by winning the bid in an Open tender by the Government of Maldives. Hence the Resort and Airport package was a decision made from the governments development plans for the region with no involvement whatsoever from the Proponent.  The president of the council expressed his satisfaction and eagerness to see a resort being developed at their door step and raised his approval and affirmation of support for the project.  The Harbour Committee also expressed their approval and requested for possibility of assistance to remedy the current damages to the harbour of Gemanafushi. In response to this Mr. Zahir expressed his gratitude and assured that the client will look to see how they can assist the community in such social issues in any way they possibly can.

Proponent: Moving International Pvt. Ltd. Page | 67 Consultant: Ahmed Zahid (EIA08/2007) EIA for the proposed Resort Development on GA. Maareha

 The harbor committee also stated their approval for the project and requested to give a priority in hiring staff for the Hotel.  In response to this the Project Manager for recommended that the community representatives take a proactive approach and send their kids for the hotel school and other vocational training programs so as to give them a competitive edge in acquiring posts at the Resort Hotel and Airport when it will be opened within the next 18 months or so.  Potential environmental determinants and consultant’s observations of the proposed concept design for the project were discussed and it was agreed that there were no major issues with regards to the community of Gemanafushi.

Proponent: Moving International Pvt. Ltd. Page | 68 Consultant: Ahmed Zahid (EIA08/2007) EIA for the proposed Resort Development on GA. Maareha

7 Impacts and Mitigation Measures

This section covers potential environmental impacts identified and measures to mitigate these impacts due to the proposed resort in Maareha, Gaafu Alifu Atoll.

The potential environmental impacts of various project activities described in Chapter 3, during construction and operational phases of the proposed project components and appropriate mitigation measures are elaborated in the following sections.

7.1 Impact Identification

Impacts on the environment from various activities of the proposed development have been identified through:  A consultative process within the EIA team and the Proponent  Purpose-built checklist  Existing literature and reports on similar developments in small island environments and other research data specific to the context of the Maldives  Baseline environmental conditions described in Chapter 5.  Consultant’s experience of projects of similar nature and similar settings

A purpose built matrix has been used to evaluate the overall impacts of the proposed project. The impacts of the project have been evaluated according to the following criteria:

1. Magnitude (or severity): the amount or scale of change that will result from the impact

2. Significance: importance of the impact. Reversibility is considered part of its significance

3. Duration: the time over which the impact would be felt

4. Extent/spatial distribution: the spatial extent over which the impact would be felt

The scales associated with the above criteria are given in the table below.

Proponent: Moving International Pvt. Ltd. Page | 69 Consultant: Ahmed Zahid (EIA08/2007) EIA for the proposed Resort Development on GA. Maareha

Table 7-1: Impact evaluation scale Criteria Scale Attribute Magnitude -3 Major adverse Change caused by impact -2 Moderate adverse -1 Minor adverse 0 Negligible 1 Minor positive 2 Moderate positive 3 Major positive Significance/Reversibility 0 Insignificant Impact implications / 1 Limited implications / easily reversible Reversibility of impact's effects 2 Broad implications / reversible with costly intervention 3 Nationwide or global implications / irreversible Duration 0 Immediate Duration / Frequency of Impact 1 Short term/construction period only 2 Medium term (five years of operation) 3 Longterm/continuous Extent/Spatial Distribution 0 None/within 1m from point of discharge/no affected Distribution of impact party 1 Immediate vicinity/household level/developer/consumer 2 Specific areas within the island/atoll/specific parties 3 Entire island/atoll/nation/all stakeholders

Based on the above scale, an impact matrix was developed for the proposed development to determine the overall impact of the proposed project. This matrix is given in Table 7-2.

An impact potential index was then developed from Table 7-2. The impact potential index table represents a product of the magnitude (M), significance (S), duration (D) and extent/spatial distribution (E) given in the above table. The sum of all key component specific indexes for one activity (i.e. sum by rows) provides the Activity Potential Impact Index (API) and the sum of all activity specific indexes for one key component (i.e. sum by column) provides the Component Potential Vulnerability Index (CPVI) which gives an indication of the vulnerability of each key component to activity related impacts. Table 7-3 represent the impact potential indices for the proposed project.

7.2 Overall Impacts of the Proposed Project

The overall impact of the proposed project is greatly positive due to the strong socio- economic potential of the proposed project. The direct and project specific negative impacts of the proposed project are due to land clearing for buildings (moderate), water villas (minor), dredging access channel and mooring area (major), dredged material disposal (moderate), beach nourishment (minor), shore protection (minor), installation of outfall pipes from the sewerage system (minor) and use of reef areas for tourist activities (minor). Negative impacts

Proponent: Moving International Pvt. Ltd. Page | 70 Consultant: Ahmed Zahid (EIA08/2007) EIA for the proposed Resort Development on GA. Maareha related to beach maintenance, marine activities (diving, snorkelling, etc), solid waste, sewage disposal, water and energy production are causes for concern both during construction and during operation. They have cumulative and indirect as well as direct impacts. The creation of employment opportunities (direct and indirect) and related economic ventures (direct and indirect), government revenue, ownership and responsibility of taking care of the natural environment of the island and surrounding marine environment as well as the value of property associated with the development are considered as major positive socio-economic impacts of the project.

Table 7-2: Impact matrix for the proposed project

KEY COMPONENTS Environment Socio-Economic

PROJECT ACTIVITIES Reefs incl. live bait groundwater and Soil Lagoon/seawater Land/seascape Air/Noise Infrastructure and Services Health and Safety Employment Value Property payer consumer/tax Costs to Construction Dredging and beach works -32-10-32-21-1032-111232-22 12121211113211133213 Water villas -110 -10-10-1032-111232-22 11 1131113211333213 Land clearance 12-11-10-102122 1232-11 332 111113131132213 Machinery and construction equipment -1 1 -1 0 -1 1 -1 0 -1 0 0 -1 0 1 2 -1 1 -1 1 1111111111 11131111 Workforce management 000000-10110-10 1111 11 Operation Brine and wastewater effluent/sludge -10-10-10-100 22 110 22-22 3 1313131 3232 3222 Solid waste -10-10-11-10-1022-1012-10-22 323 13131313232323122 Energy/electricity 0 -11-100 -1122-101222-22 1111 3 13232323222 Snorkelling, Diving and watersports -11000-1022-101222-21 3 1 3 13232323222 Transfers and transport -100 -10-10-1122-101222-22 33 3232323232323222 Regular beach nourishment -100 -10210 22-101222-21 32 3232 3232323222

Proponent: Moving International Pvt. Ltd. Page | 71 Consultant: Ahmed Zahid (EIA08/2007) EIA for the proposed Resort Development on GA. Maareha

Table 7-3: Impact potential indices for the proposed project

KEY COMPONENTS Envi ronme nt Socio-economic TOTAL API

PROJECT ACTIVITIES Reefsincl. live bait groundwater and Soil Lagoon/seawater Land/seascape Air/Noise Infrastructure and Services Health and Safety Employment Value Property payer Costs consumer/tax to Construction Dredging and beach works -0 .15 0 -0 .15 -0.0 2 0 0.4 4 -0 .01 0.07 0.44 -0 .15 0.47 Water villas -0 .01 0 0 0 0 0.4 4 -0 .01 0.22 0.44 -0 .15 0.93 Land clearance 0 0.22 -0.02 0 0 0.07 0.15 0.07 0.3 -0.0 4 0 .75 Machinery and construction equipment -0 .01 0 -0 .01 00000.07 -0.01 -0.01 0.03 Workforce management 00000000.01 0 0 0.01 Operation Brine and wastewater effluent/sludge 0000 0 0 .3 0 .07 0 0 .3 -0.2 0.47 Solid waste 0 0 -0.0 4 0 0 0 .3 0 0.15 0 -0.2 0.21 Energy/electricity 0 -0 .01 0 0 -0.0 4 0 .3 0 0.15 0 .3 -0.2 0.5 Snorkelling, Diving and watersports -0.0400000.300.150.3-0.1 0.61 Transfers and transport 0000 -0.07 0.3 0 0.15 0.3 -0.2 0.48 Regular beach nourishment 0000.15 0 0.3 0 0.15 0.3 -0.1 0.8 TOTAL CPVI -0 .21 0 .21 -0.2 2 0 .13 -0.11 2 .75 0 .2 1.19 2 .67 -1.35 5.2 6

The table above indicates that the project has some negative environmental impacts during the construction phase as well as operational phase, which are not as strong as the positive outcomes of the project, as a result of which the total potential impact index for the project is largely positive. Therefore, the project can be allowed to proceed as proposed.

7.3 Project Specific Impacts and Mitigation Measures

7.3.1 Mobilization

The transport and supply of construction material, barges, excavator, truck and any other machinery may have impacts that may be related to any of the following.  Accidental spillage of construction materials (e.g. cement).  Accidental oils and other chemical spills.  Accidental grounding of large vessels such as barges.  Propellers’ wake can break fragile corals.  Anchor damage from the vessels.

Proponent: Moving International Pvt. Ltd. Page | 72 Consultant: Ahmed Zahid (EIA08/2007) EIA for the proposed Resort Development on GA. Maareha

 Hazards of transport of material and machinery to site including overtopping of barges.

Precautionary measures need to be in place while loading and unloading of such materials and machineries at work sites under supervision at all times throughout the cycle of the process.

7.3.2 Machinery

In addition to accidental damage caused to corals from barges and other machinery, these machines run on diesel fuel, which will have fuel management and handling issues in addition to carbon emissions. Poor handling and management of diesel and other fuel as in many islands, often lead to contamination of the aquifer. Some degradation of the marine environment is also likely. Moreover, improper handling of fuel could result in accidents and mishaps such as fires, which has in the past had caused major damages.

Efforts must be made to avoid accidental spillages from machinery including overtopping leading to severe spillages. Machines must be operated by experienced operators and make sure machines are clean all the time. Avoid throwing of cleaning materials and changed oils into the environment.

7.3.3 Construction Materials

Construction materials such as cement and fuel for machineries have the potential to damage the marine and terrestrial environment. Both terrestrial and coastal activities can pollute the environment including soil, aquifer and coastal water due to accidental spill of oil and chemicals. Sometimes these materials are thrown into the environment due to absence of appropriate supervision at work sites.

Pollution of the lagoon and reef system can be caused by waterborne and windblown debris escaping from the construction. Reefs also get damaged due to boating activities including mooring, loading and unloading of materials.

Efforts must be made to avoid any such contamination of the environment in particular of handling of fuel, chemicals, and construction materials. Construction workers and helpers must be provided information. Other aspects to be considered include the following.

 Avoid creating permanent structures or sand beds for loading and offloading of materials and machinery.

Proponent: Moving International Pvt. Ltd. Page | 73 Consultant: Ahmed Zahid (EIA08/2007) EIA for the proposed Resort Development on GA. Maareha

 Avoid boating activities in low tide.

 Avoid damage to coral reefs through proper navigations.

 Avoid loading, unloading and boating activities at night times.

7.3.4 Arrival Jetty, Mooring Area and Access Channel

The proposed arrival jetty is a piled jetty with concrete footings buried in the ground. Therefore, there would be minor impacts from the installation of the footings. The jetty is located towards the middle of the western side, therefore, the impact on sediment transport due to the piles as well as the jetty structure would be almost negligible. However, the proposed mooring area is quite close to the shoreline. Although nearshore sediment processes are usually within 40-50m from shoreline, it is often affected when the mooring area has some form of breakwater to provide shelter. Although such shelter is not provided at this stage, it may become necessary at a later stage, and hence, it is ideal to consider shifting the arrival jetty slightly further away.

The access channel and mooring area will be dredged using excavator or cutter-suction dredger. Cutter suction dredger is preferable given that sedimentation will be less. Sediment movement will be generally towards the reef. Therefore, it may be necessary to use sediment curtains to contain the sediment, especially if excavators are used. If cutter suction dredgers were to be used, the fill area shall be properly bunded and silt containment measures shall be in place.

Given that ocean currents will usually spread the sediment to a large extent, it may be ideal to undertake works when the currents will take the sediment towards the southwest and away from the reef with the strong currents in the channel. It is also important to undertake the work as soon as possible to ensure that the impact of the sedimentation is short-term.

7.3.5 Construction of Sewer Outfall

Construction of sewer outfall would impact to coastal water, lagoon bottom and reef during construction due to suspension and re-suspension of fines while laying and anchoring the pipes. This impact would be minor and short-term. Since treated effluent is disposed to the area at depths of over 10m, it may not be worthwhile considering alternatives to the proposed sewer outfall. The southeastern side, where the reef is a significant dive spot, shall be avoided.

Proponent: Moving International Pvt. Ltd. Page | 74 Consultant: Ahmed Zahid (EIA08/2007) EIA for the proposed Resort Development on GA. Maareha

The following mitigation measures shall be in place.

 To ensure appropriate supervision and monitoring

 Carry out the work in low tide

 Avoid removing corals unnecessarily, if required, transplant any live corals

 Minimize number of workers on the reef at the time of anchoring

 Complete the work as soon as possible

 Keep the workers informed about these aspects to minimize the impacts

 Avoid washing tools, equipments etc into lagoon

7.3.6 Feed water intake

Feed water for desalination plant is proposed to be drawn from a borehole. Borehole drilling does not have adverse environmental impacts. However, the boring methodology is important. Details of the borehole(s) will be provided to EPA when applying for the registration of desalination plant as they are not available at this stage.

7.3.7 Brine discharge

Brine is discharged in the lagoon. The impact of such small discharges is negligible. Almost all audits and EIA reports carried out in the past indicate that there is no impact of hyper- salinization from brine discharge in the lagoon for such small scale operations.

7.3.8 Construction of Inland Structures

Inland structures are considered to be those within the vegetated area of the island. These include almost all structures except jetties and water villas. Tourist facilities including guest rooms are within the coastal zone while staff facilities and utilities are in the middle of the island where the primary vegetation is found.

Structures such as Gym, Cinema, Wellness Center, Kids Play Ground, Staff Village and facilities, Utilities Building and Mosque would have greater direct impacts on terrestrial flora and fauna than the guest villas and other structures in the coastal zone. The guest villas, Reception Building, Main Restaurant and Coffee Shop are on the coastal area and would impact the coastal vegetation. Coastal vegetation (heylhi) is the second line of defence against strong waves. Therefore, it is important to preserve coastal vegetation and therefore, Tourism

Proponent: Moving International Pvt. Ltd. Page | 75 Consultant: Ahmed Zahid (EIA08/2007) EIA for the proposed Resort Development on GA. Maareha

Regulations require that all buildings are well behind 15m of coastal vegetation. The proposed design ensures this except for the Reception building and the main restaurant.

Direct impacts of inland structures will be due to clearing of vegetation, especially mature trees or primary vegetation. Clearing of vegetation is a crucial global issue which need to be undertaken carefully considering all means to avoid felling palms and other mature trees. Since the island vegetation is mature and the building footprint is small, few mature trees are expected to be removed. Therefore, it is recommended to plan buildings as well as walkways to buildings around mature trees during the stakeout and trees are removed only if necessary. Even then, those mature trees that need removal shall be transplanted elsewhere. This can be done quite easily given that the footprint of the development is less than 20% of the wooded area. Not more than 20 mature trees would need to be transplanted. Furthermore, stake out shall be done with care to minimize unnecessary felling of vegetation of any sort. If any tree requires removal, they would be carefully removed and transplanted elsewhere.

7.3.9 Structures in the littoral regime

The jetties and the water villas walkways as well as part of the arrival pavilion is on the shoreline and would have minor negative impacts on the erosion and accretion process within the shoreline. However, these structures will stand on piles, therefore, the impact would be minor negative.

The Speciality Restaurants and the water villas are also within the littoral regime, however at a considerable distance from shore. Therefore, the impact of the water villas and Speciality Restaurants on the longshore sediment transport would be small. The water villas, however, would help to minimize the impact of waves on the shoreline at the several piles act to disperse wave energy to some extent. This may be considered as a positive impact and this impact may be further enhanced by improving the wave absorption by the several columns/piles of the water villas as well as the speciality restaurants.

The overall impact of these structures on the littoral regime is difficult to assess at this stage due to lack of data on hydrodynamics around the island. Therefore, this aspect will be covered by regular monitoring of shoreline changes and hydrodynamics around the island. This is proposed in the monitoring programme.

Proponent: Moving International Pvt. Ltd. Page | 76 Consultant: Ahmed Zahid (EIA08/2007) EIA for the proposed Resort Development on GA. Maareha

7.3.10 Energy Generation

The main negative environmental impacts of energy generation are related to carbon emissions from the burning of fossil fuels. Given the small size of the project, these emissions would contribute insignificantly to global emissions. Yet, the resort will target to achieve carbon neutrality at the earliest possible prior to the national target of 2020. Therefore, a million dollar project to install a solar grid in the island is already in the pipeline. Solar water heaters will be installed and energy efficient technology would be used even from the onset of operations.

Noise is also a cause for concern, especially in small resorts. However, as can be seen in Figure 3-2, the utilities building is as far from guest villas and staff area as well as mosque with thick vegetation acting as a good sound absorbing barrier. Therefore, the location is appropriate with emissions (including exhaust fumes and noise) being small.

7.3.11 Health and safety

The main health and safety issues during the construction stage would be in the operation of heavy machinery and equipment such as excavators with the risk of toppling. Falls and accidents due to carelessness in the project site has been a concern in many construction sites and must be addressed during the planning and implementation stages. The project is not expected to use heavy machinery.

Noise levels felt by workers may be a health issue to some. However, noise levels at the project site would not be too high and would be intermittent and not continuous. Therefore, acceptable average daily exposure levels would not be exceeded for construction workforce.

Health and safety during the operational phase would be dealt with appropriate operational procedures and equipment including fire fighting equipment (fire hydrants, fire extinguishers in all buildings, etc), safety equipment in all public areas as well as vessels, evacuation procedures clearly laid and trained safety and rescue personnel on site. Medical facilities will be made available including easy access to first aid. However, medical evacuation needs to be discussed with Government authorities.

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7.4 Waste and wastewater

Likely oil and chemical spills from operation of power generation facilities, wastewater treatment and desalination will pollute the air, groundwater and soil. This pollution usually occurs either due to accidental spill or unregulated emissions into atmosphere due to absence of appropriate measures to manage such operations. Key impacts identified include

 Contamination of soil from oil and chemical spill

 Contamination groundwater from oil, chemical and wastewater

 Air pollution due to emissions from powerhouse

 Generation of solid waste from accommodation blocks, kitchen/restaurants, office etc

 Generation of liquid waste from accommodation blocks, office blocks, restaurants, bars, engine repair and maintenance areas, desalination etc.

Mitigations to these impacts include:

 Avoid chemical and oil spills into the environment

 Adopt good housekeeping measures

 Adopt appropriate waste management practices

 Avoid direct discharge of untreated liquid waste (spent oil, kitchen wastewater, sewage) into environment

 Build appropriate grease traps at restaurants and kitchen and appropriate drainage systems in engine repair and service areas

 Avoid cleaning and washing of oily tools, equipment and parts (e.g. engine parts, machines) on bare ground

 Avoid open dumping of solid waste

Inappropriate handling of solid waste and garbage and its disposal into the surrounding environment can have impacts on the marine environment including pollution of coastal waters and consequential effects on coral reefs and associated reef organisms. The types of solid waste generated during the operation will mainly consist of plastic bags, glass and plastic bottles, cans, tins, paper, wrappings, other discarded litter and possibly human faeces. Such items can have adverse impacts on the marine environment ranging from reduced aesthetic beauty of the surrounding area to degraded water quality as well as potential ecological disturbances. Ecological impacts associated with solid waste disposal into the

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Often wastewater gets inappropriately discharged into marine environment during operational phase which cause direct contamination of surrounding water causing degraded water quality. Some of the sources include wastewater from boats that are usually contaminated with oils and fats, cleaning agents, detergents and other chemicals. Most of the wastewater is potential pollutants that can have direct effects on coral reef ecology and has potential to harm and devastate the ecosystem. The proposed project will have very few boats at one given time and discharges would be negligible.

Brine concentrate generated from seawater desalination is not expected to affect the environment. Effects, if any, would be evaluated as part of the proposed monitoring programme under this project.

In order to mitigate the environmental impacts from various activities during the operation of the resort, the following measures need to be undertaken and strictly enforced. These include:  Solid waste collected and transported to Thilafushi under strict supervision and monitoring  Appropriate solid waste collection facilities shall be placed on the island  Boat cleaning within the jetty area should be avoided  Fuelling of boats and vessels within the island lagoon should be be closely supervised and monitored.  Bins and similar waste management facilities shall be provided at all appropriate locations around the island.  Avoid discharge of untreated wastewater into marine and terrestrial environment.

7.4.1 Transport Related Impacts

The use of diesel as well as petrol in vehicular engines and operation of machines cause emissions of carbon dioxide, sulphur dioxide and nitrogen oxides with fine particular matter. Carbon dioxide being the primary greenhouse gas and the main contributor to global warming, likely future carbon emissions would be a cause for concern, as the impact cumulatively adds to the global burden of carbon emissions.

Mitigation measures related to these aspects include:

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 Use light fuel where appropriate

 Avoid unnecessary operation of vehicles, machines and boats

 Keep in place appropriate transport management system

 Avoid boats carrying materials/goods to work site in half loaded

 Keep in place appropriate logistic management system during construction and operation phase

7.4.2 Marine‐ based Activities

The lagoon and reef around the proposed island is pristine and clear, free from direct human influence. However, with the beginning of the resort development and operation these marine based recreational activities would cause damage to reefs and reef ecological system followed by either killing or forcing some fishes to leave the reef environment.

Provide appropriate training to all those engaged in marine recreational activities including diving, snorkelling and other such activities. Provide information to tourists as well as staff about the vulnerability of corals and its associated ecological system.

7.4.3 Socio‐ Economic Impacts

The socio-economic impacts from the proposed project are positive, in terms of job opportunities and other income generating opportunities for island communities. These include opening new market(s) for agricultural products, thatch, handicrafts and fishery products required for the construction, operation and maintenance of the facility.

7.5 Uncertainties in Impact Prediction

There is no long term data and information regarding the particular site under consideration, which makes it difficult to predict impacts. However, the level of uncertainty, in the case of the proposed development may be expected to be low due to the experience of similar projects in similar settings in the Maldives. Nevertheless, it is important to consider that there are elements that are new and that there will be uncertainties and to undertake voluntary monitoring as described in the monitoring programme given in the EIA report.

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Table 7-4: Summary of socio-economic and environmental impacts of the proposed project Activity Causal Factors Impact Impact Significance Clearing of vegetation for Reduced number of trees on the Loss of vegetation Moderate building areas island Loss of habitats for birds and Low domestic animals Loss of CO2 sinks Low

Entrance channel, access channel Sediment movement and Smothering of corals Moderate and mooring area dredging deposition Loss of habitats for juveniles Low-moderate works Increased sediment level in the Low water column

Water and sewerage system – Leaks in the system Groundwater quality deterioration Negligible construction and operation Operation of STP/pumps Atmospheric pollution Negligible

Discharge of chemical and Pollutes soil, water Low wastewater into ground/sea Installation of sewer outfalls Re-suspension of fine Water quality degradation Negligible sediments during installation Impact on corals (reef) Low Waste and wastewater disposal Discharges or accidental spill Marine water pollution Low to including brine of motor oils, lubricants, moderate hydraulic fuels, other chemicals such as antifoulants and paints in vessels and wastewater Machinery and equipment for Heavy machinery operation Local noise and air pollution Insignificant construction and construction Accidental damage from Local damage to reefs Low to operation of barges, etc. moderate Accidents during machinery Oil and waste spillages to Low to and material transport to site oceans/reefs moderate Handling and transport of goods Loading/unloading/movement Dust and air emissions Insignificant and materials of goods Transport Increased risk of accidents Low Cumulative emission Low Recreational activities Use of reef for different Accidental damage to corals Low to activities moderate Construction of the resort Works/activities related to the Direct income to employees Positive project Indirect benefits to employees Positive Indirect benefits to societ/ies Positive Operation of the resort Rent and tax Generates Government revenue Largely Employment Income to local people/expatriates positive Development of related sectors Indirect benefits to society/ies Economic opportunities Social interactions

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Table 7-5: Summary of mitigation measures Mitigation measures for minimizing impacts of the Implementing Technology/ Cost development responsibility equipment Design Phase Identify areas for development on land and Project Identify clean marine engineer/design technologies such Clearly identify and mark the areas that require engineer/consultant clearing of vegetation and coral reefs Design all development on the principle of cleaner production

Construction Adoption of early warning mechanism through EIA Consultant Choose phase regular monitoring for level of suspended solids Contractor appropriate and /or turbidity during construction works technologies and Ensure proper and efficient operation equipment Selection of appropriate development windows (e.g. execute coastal and marine work in low tide) Monitor suspended solids in water flowing out and spreading Contain marine and coastal work sites to avoid sediment flow away from work site Completion of work as soon as possible but by avoiding working at night Minimized felling of old trees Replant on another location any old coconut palm removed from work site Minimize clearing of vegetation Avoid any spillage into the ground that can contaminate soil and groundwater Keep sensitive areas protected from damage (e.g. grave yard) Avoid discharge of untreated sewage/wastewater effluent into ocean Minimize removal or destruction of corals for sewer, coastal protection or any other purpose Operation Monitor marine water quality, groundwater Developer phase quality, beach profiles and shore dynamics, (Proponent), coral reef as well as other aspects at designated Island Council and locations EPA Ensure enforcement from government regulatory bodies Mitigation measures for mitigating impacts of machinery and Implementing Technology/ Cost equipment responsibility equipment Design Phase Plan for the use of appropriate equipment. Project engineer Provide appropriate working windows Construction Ensure proper monitoring of construction Contractor phase activities Establish strict regulations and safety measures for machinery operation Locate storage area on the island Provide effective management of fuel handling area and other dangerous substances storage Mitigation measures for mitigating impacts of waste and Implementing Technology/ Cost wastewater disposal responsibility equipment Design Phase Design for appropriate solid and liquid waste Project engineer/ Choose disposal such as provision of disposal facilities developer appropriate and collection procedures technologies Establish appropriate mechanism for waste and wastewater management employed with trained and informed personals

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Construction Construction waste must be disposed of Contractor/ developer phase appropriately Construction debris shall not be disposed in the marine environment Operation Produce and enforce strict regulations for liquid Developer/ phase and solid waste disposal from vessels in the Management jetty (arrival) area Disposal of solid waste including fish waste, wastewater and waste oil disposal other than designated areas shall be prohibited Fuelling of boats and vessels on sea shall be closely supervised and monitored Ensure emergency procedures in case of spill out of dangerous substances are in place Appropriate solid waste collection facilities shall be placed Mitigation measures for mitigating impacts of goods and Implementing Technology/ Cost material handling responsibility equipment Design Phase Raising awareness and utilizing environmental Project engineer/ best practice Consultant/developer Careful planning to ensure minimal disturbance to access the island Construction Development shall be carried out in a manner it Contractor/developer phase will not affect or minimize the effects on the existing ecological system Operational Produce and enforce hazardous material Developer Implement good phase handling and storage procedures housekeeping, Ensure emergency procedures in case of spill provide training out of dangerous substances are in place. and raise Identify clear responsibilities. awareness Enforce health and safety procedures at all work sites

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8 Environmental Monitoring

8.1 Introduction

Environmental monitoring is essential to ensure that potential impacts are minimized and to mitigate unanticipated impacts. The parameters that are most relevant for monitoring the impacts that may arise from the proposed project are included in the monitoring plan. These include water quality, sedimentation, shore dynamics, live coral cover and nektonic fauna.

Monitoring would ensure that the proposed activities are undertaken with caution and appropriative care so as to protect and preserve the built environment of the areas in proximity to the site or those areas and environmental aspects affected by the development.

The purpose of the monitoring is to provide information that will aid impact management, and secondarily to achieve a better understanding of cause‐effect relationship and to improve impact prediction and mitigation methods. This will help to minimize environmental impacts of projects in future.

The monitoring plan shall target to measure:  live coral cover and nektonic fauna  the amount of sedimentation on the reef  water quality and visibility  beach profile and hydrodynamic changes  impacts are accurate and mitigation measures taken are effective and  the thresholds are kept within the baseline limits predicted.

8.2 Recommended Monitoring Programme

Outlined here is a project specific monitoring requirement that can be considered. This monitoring programme for the proposed project includes at least three monthly monitoring and covers the three stages of the project implementation.

Stage 1: Site preparation

Stage 2: Construction

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Stage 3: Operation phase

The recommended environmental monitoring programme for the three phases is given below.

Table 8-1: Environmental monitoring programme for the proposed project Frequency and duration Parameters Location Stage 1 Stage 2 Stage 3 Marine water quality: Locations given in Once prior to start Every three months Every three months Temperature, pH, the EIA report plus of works Conductivity/ salinity/ TDS, dive spot on the dissolved oxygen, turbidity, Southeast TSS, chlorophyll (optional) Marine water quality: Locations given in Once prior to start At the end of the Once a year BOD, COD, total organic the EIA report plus of works construction phase carbon, total suspended locations of intake, matter, phosphate, silicate, brine discharge and nitrate, nitrite, ammonium sewage outfall plus and selected heavy metals dive spot on the such as copper, organotin, Southeast mercury and lead Benthic cover and Locations given in Once prior to start At the end of the Every six months and fish survey the EIA report plus of works construction phase dive spot on the Southeast Ground water quality: Locations given in Once prior to start At the end of the Once a year Temperature, pH, the EIA report of works construction phase EC, TDS, DO, Nitrates, Phosphates Product water quality for Product water tank, N/A At the end of the Once a week pH, TDS, room, kitchen and construction phase laboratory Beach profiles Locations given in Once prior to start Every three months Every three months the EIA report of works Currents (drogues) Locations given in Once prior to start Every three months Every three months the EIA report or of works more Shoreline At a bench-marked Once prior to start Every three months Every three months tide level of works Incidents and accidents All work areas Daily site logs Daily site logs

8.3 Cost of monitoring

The following table outlines a cost estimate for the monitoring assuming the monitoring will be undertaken by environmental consultants and most of the parameters would be tested in- situ and in a laboratory in the country.

Table 8-2: Estimated cost of the proposed monitoring programme (annual) No Details Total (US$) 2 Field allowance for 2 staffs for 2 days each visit 1,600.00 5 Monitoring equipment charges 4,100.00 6 Water quality testing and analysis (lab) 800.00 Total 6,500.00

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8.4 Monitoring Report

A detailed environmental monitoring report is required to be compiled and submitted to the Environment Protection Agency yearly based on the data collected for monitoring the parameters included in the monitoring programme given in this report. EPA may submit the report to the relevant Government agencies in order to demonstrate compliance of the Proponent.

The report will include details of the site, strategy of data collection and analysis, quality control measures, sampling frequency and monitoring analysis and details of methodologies and protocols followed. The report will also include fuel and water consumption data and greenhouse gas emission calculations.

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 works.

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9 Acknowledgements

The author wishes to acknowledge the work of several people who have contributed to this report. First, thanks to Mr. Ahmed Zahir, the Managing Director of Moving International for his support throughout and Mr. Ali Ashraf, who is the project manager for providing invaluable input and information necessary for the timely completion of this EIA. Mr. Hussain Shaheed has provided input and assisted in the field work especially in the public consultations. This report could not have been made without the field work carried out by the environmental surveyors, Mr. Mohamed Riyaz and late Mr. Abdul Muheeth, who have been involved in the field work and data analysis and presentation. Mr. Riyaz also assisted in drawing up the maps and report writing.

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10 References

Adam, M. S. (2011), Environmental Impact Assessment for the Development of a Domestic Airport on Kooddoo, Maldives

Binnie Black and Veatch (2000), Environmental/Technical Study for Dredging/Reclamation Works under the Hulhumalé Project, Maldives

Choi, B. H., Pelinovsky, E., Kim, K. O., and Lee, J. S. (2003), Simulation of the trans-oceanic tsunami propagation due to the 1883 Krakatau volcanic eruption. In Natural Hazards and Earth System Sciences 3:321- 332

Dawson, B. and Spannagle, M. (2009), The Complete Guide to Climate Change, Routledge

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

Morner et al (2004), New Perspectives for the future of the Maldives. In Global and Planetary Change 40:177– 182

English, S., Wilkinson, C. and Baker, V. (1997). Survey Manual for Tropical Marine Resources (2nd edition), Australian Institute of Marine Science

Goda, Y (1988), Report on environmental conditions and related problems at Malé Port, Malé Port Development Project, Maldives, ADB

Goda, Y. (1988), Causes of high waves at Male' in April 1987, Dept. of Public Works and Labour, Male, Maldives,

MEEW (2005), State of the Environment Report 2005, Maldives, Ministry of Environment, Energy and Water, Maldives

MHAHE (2001), State of the Environment Report 2001, Maldives, Ministry of Home Affairs, Housing and Environment, Maldives

Naseer, A. (2003), The integrated growth response of coral reefs to environmental forcing: morphometric analysis of coral reefs of the Maldives, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Dalhousie University

UNDP (2006), Developing a Disaster Risk Profile for Maldives, UNDP Maldives

UNEP (2005), Maldives: Post-Tsunami Environmental Assessment, United Nations Environment Programme

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Appendix 1: Terms of Reference

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EIA for the proposed Resort Development on GA. Maareha

Appendix 2: Water quality report

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EIA for the proposed Resort Development on GA. Maareha

Appendix 3: Minutes of meeting with Council

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