Maldives Maritime Center's_Maritime survival training_centre_eia_final

Maritime Survival Training Centre Environment Impact Assessment

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Maldives College of Higher Education

Environmental Impact Assessment construction of Maritime Survival Training Centre at K. Villingili

March 2007

Prepared by

Land & Marine Environmental Resource Group Pvt Ltd 3rd Floor, H. Coleezium, Ameenee Magu, Malé 20-05, MALDIVES Tel: +960 331 5049, Email: [email protected]


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TABLE OF CONTENTS A. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ...........................................................................................................................6 B. PROJECT DESCRIPTION .............................................................................................................................8

B.1 PURPOSE OF THE REPORT AND NEED FOR THE EIA ....................................................................................8 B.2 PROCEDURE OF THE EIA ...........................................................................................................................8

C. PROJECT DESCRIPTION ...........................................................................................................................11 C.1 PROJECT PROPONENT ..............................................................................................................................11 C.2 THE PROJECT...........................................................................................................................................11 C.3 PROJECT LOCATION.................................................................................................................................12 C.4 NEED FOR THE PROJECT ..........................................................................................................................13 C.5 LOCATION AND EXTENT OF SITE BOUNDARIES ........................................................................................13 C.6 CONSTRUCTION PHASES AND SCHEDULE FOR IMPLEMENTATION ............................................................14 C.7 MAJOR INPUTS - CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS, METHODS AND PROCESSES..............................................15 C.8 RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH THE PROJECT ...................................................................................................18

D. LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE FRAMEWORK.......................................................................................19 D.1 ENVIRONMENT PROTECTION AND PRESERVATION ACT OF MALDIVES ...................................................19 D.2 BY LAW, CUTTING DOWN, UPROOTING, DIGGING OUT AND EXPORT OF TREES AND PALMS FROM ONE ISLAND TO ANOTHER......................................................................................................................................19 D.3 THE NATIONAL BIODIVERSITY STRATEGY AND ACTION PLAN 2002......................................................20 D.4 INTERNATIONAL MARITIME ORGANIZATION (IMO) CONVENTION.........................................................21

D.4.1 International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers, 1978. Amendments made 1998, 2006......................................................................................22 D.4.1.1 Emergency, occupational safety, medical care and survival functions.......................................22 D.4.1.2 Special training requirements for personnel on certain types of ships .......................................26

E. EXISTING ENVIRONMENT.........................................................................................................................28 E.1 GENERAL SETTING - MALDIVES...............................................................................................................28 E.2 GEOGRAPHIC LOCATION AND GENERAL SETTING OF K. VILLINGILI.......................................................29

E.2.1 Island Setting...................................................................................................................................29 E.2.2 Climatology .....................................................................................................................................30

E.3 BEACH ENVIRONMENT ............................................................................................................................40 E.4 MARINE ENVIRONMENT ..........................................................................................................................42

E.4.1 Introduction .....................................................................................................................................42 E.4.2 Methodology....................................................................................................................................42 E.4.3 Results and discussion.....................................................................................................................43 E.4.3.1 Reef benthos .................................................................................................................................43 E.4.3.2 Reef fish community .....................................................................................................................47 E.4.3.3 Invertebrates.................................................................................................................................49 E.4.3.4 Protected marine species .............................................................................................................49 E.4.3.5 Sea water quality ..........................................................................................................................50 E.4.3.6 Terrestrial.....................................................................................................................................50

E.5 SOCIAL ENVIRONMENT............................................................................................................................51 F. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES ...............................................................53

F.1 ACTIVITIES CAUSING ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS ....................................................................................53 F.2 IMPACTS DURING CONSTRUCTION............................................................................................................53

F.2.1 Schedule, logistics and loading and unloading construction materials .........................................54 F.2.2 Construction materials and solid waste ..........................................................................................55 F.2.3 Impacts due to construction methods..............................................................................................56 F.2.4 Impact on vegetation .......................................................................................................................57 F.2.5 Impact on groundwater ...................................................................................................................57


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F.2.6 Coastal structures ...........................................................................................................................58 F.2.7 Cumulative impacts .........................................................................................................................58 F.2.8 Social impacts, noise and air pollution...........................................................................................59

F.3 OPERATIONAL IMPACTS...........................................................................................................................60 F.3.1 Social impacts..................................................................................................................................60

F.4 MITIGATION PLAN ...................................................................................................................................61 F.5 UNCERTAINTIES INVOLVED IN IDENTIFYING IMPACTS .............................................................................66

G. ALTERNATIVES ...........................................................................................................................................66 G.1 PROJECT LOCATION .................................................................................................................................66 G.2 DREDGING AND RECLAMATION METHOD ................................................................................................67 G.3 THE NO PROJECT SCENARIO.....................................................................................................................68

H. PUBLIC CONSULTATION ..........................................................................................................................69 I. MONITORING PROGRAM ...........................................................................................................................71 J. REFERENCES ...............................................................................................................................................73 K. ANNEXES .....................................................................................................................................................75

K.1 SCOPE OF WORK APPROVED BY MEEW (TOR).......................................................................................75 K.2 SCALED DRAWING SET ............................................................................................................................80 K.3 LANDUSE PLAN........................................................................................................................................91 K.4 PHOTO PLATES ........................................................................................................................................93 K.5 LETTER TO MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT, ENERGY AND WATER............................................................99


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LIST OF FIGURES Figure 1 Project layout (see Annex 2 for scaled drawings set) ___________________________________ 11 Figure 2 Edge of small finger like reclaimed process (left), cement pavement damaged over the years, this area was used by landing crafts (right) _____________________________________________________ 12 Figure 3 Project site location at K. Villingili _________________________________________________ 12 Figure 4 Project site boundaries, giving direct and indirect impact areas from excavation and dredging works ________________________________________________________________________________ 14 Figure 5 Geographic location of Villingili at north Male’ atoll___________________________________ 30 Figure 6 Wind rose plots for the four seasons in Male region (daily wind data for the years 2002 and 2003 obtained from Department of Meteorology, Maldives)__________________________________________ 32 Figure 7 Tidal recordings at Hulhule_______________________________________________________ 33 Figure 8 Spectral density graph for the tidal records presented in figure 7 _________________________ 34 Figure 9 Graphs showing the significant wave height and wave directions in the southern region of Maldives (source: DHI, 1999) ____________________________________________________________________ 35 Figure 10 Wave height, Hs, exceedence curves for southern region of Maldives (Source DHI, 1999) ____ 35 Figure 11 Global distributions of mean monthly values of the mean wave direction, for the months of January, April, July and October. Values are shown as direction vectors (from Young, 1999). __________ 37 Figure 12 Map showing the types of waves experienced at K. Villingili ____________________________ 38 Figure 13 Current measurements taken using drogues, recording interval at 30s ____________________ 39 Figure 14 Accretion of sand at the northern side of the project area and southern side of waste management area at Villingili (Photo taken during February 2007) _________________________________________ 41 Figure 15 Condition of the small beach strip observed at the northern side of the project area, erosion observed at the northern side, whilst accretion observed at the southern side close to project area (photo taken during February 2007) _____________________________________________________________ 41 Figure 16 Location of survey sites and seawater sampling sites at Villingili reef_____________________ 43 Figure 17 Reef substrate in the vicinity if the proposed development site. 95% confidence interval for each category is shown. n=3 __________________________________________________________________ 44 Figure 18 Generic composition of the live coral community _____________________________________ 45 Figure 19 Porites lobata colony observed at the southern western side of the reef (left), three species of butterfly fish was observed at survey sites, two species of butterfly as seen in this picture, Hemiturichthys zoster and Chaetodon melannotus _________________________________________________________ 46 Figure 20 Effects of shore-based fishing and mis-management of solid waste; dense mesh of monofilament line from high intensity shore based fishing (left) and fish waste disposed to the reef from a nearby semi industrial fish processing household. _______________________________________________________ 47 Figure 21 Reef slope highly degraded with little coral cover (left), Acanthurus leucosternon schooling at the reef edge in the vicinity of the project site (right)______________________________________________ 49 Figure 22 Dhiggaa, Funna and Maggoo observed along the small beach strip at the northern side of the project area___________________________________________________________________________ 51 Figure 23 Waste dumped at the project area, semi industrial work related solid waste ________________ 56


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LIST OF TABLES Table 1 Construction schedule for the Maritime Survival Training Centre __________________________ 15 Table 2 Inputs for the development project- construction and operational phase _____________________ 17 Table 3 Summary of four seasons in Maldives ________________________________________________ 30 Table 4 Table summarizing tide levels at Hulhule Island, Male Atoll. _____________________________ 33 Table 5 Fish census survey at the proposed project area________________________________________ 48 Table 6 Fish diversity and abundance at the study sites_________________________________________ 48 Table 7 Seawater quality parameter at the sampling location in the reef at Villingili. Data analysis was carried out by the National Health Laboratory, Maldives Food and Drug Authority. Report number PHL/RE/WC166 _______________________________________________________________________ 50 Table 8 Type and source of potential solid waste generated during construction stage ________________ 55 Table 9 Potential impacts during construction and operation of the development project and possible mitigation measures identified to minimize the impacts _________________________________________ 62 Table 10 Monitoring plan for the development project at Villingili reef system. ______________________ 71

Issue Issue date Summary A 8th March 2006 First draft submitted to Maldives

College of Higher Education

B 13th March 2006 Revised Draft

C 15th March 2006 Final report

D

E


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A. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Maldives College of Higher Education has proposed the development

project outlined below in order to establish a Maritime Survival Training

Centre, especially catering requirements of courses such as personal

survival techniques and proficiency in survival craft and rescue boat

training.

This EIA is concerned with the dredging of a small harbour (40m by 22m)

and land reclamation of area 3700m3. Dredged material excavated from

the harbour basin deepening works will be used as filling material during

reclamation. A sea wall (breakwater) will be constructed at the western

side of the harbour area.

At the time of field surveys and report compilation, the bidding process

was on-going; therefore the consultants are not informed of a specific

time period for the development works. However, according to the

proponent construction works have to be completed within 6 months.

Therefore this timeframe was taken into consideration to describe the

environmental conditions inherent to the project site.

The projected number of workers at peak construction time is expected to

be 30 labourers. Accommodation of labourers could be in rented rooms or

houses at Villingili or Male’. All construction related materials can be

stored in the project site once the reclamation work is completed.

There are two main types of potential impacts arising from the

development of the proposed project site: short term impacts during the

construction phase and impacts from irreversible modifications of the site.

Long term negative impacts due proposed development are few and the

magnitudes of these impacts are difficult to determine due to the time

available to carry out appropriate field assessments. Furthermore, no

information is available of the impacts associated with coastal modification

works that have been already implemented in Villingili as part of various

development projects (at the moment large scale coastal modification is

observed at Villingili, commercial and ferry harbour, reclamation and

seawall at the southern side and coastal protection in the form of a

revetment or retaining wall at the south west corner of the island).


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The proposed site for the project appears to be suitable for the

development, taking into account the environment, construction feasibility

and economic values of the proposed development.

No major impacts are predicted by the proposed development project.

Minor impacts associated with the project are short-term (e.g.

sedimentation) and due to the scale of the proposed activities and the

nature of the habitat that would be impacted, the sedimentation impacts

are considered insignificant. Hydrodynamics and coastal processes

around the island may have already changed as a result of impacts

associated with previous development works which are more significant

and long-term (duration of the project) than the proposed project.

Therefore, predicted coastal impacts associated with this project would be

comparatively minor and insignificant.

No major socio economic impacts were identified as a consequence of the

project since no local people would be relocated. Furthermore, the land

allocated for the project belongs to the state and there were no vegetation

that may be privately owned.

Despite negligible impacts associated with the project, appropriate

monitoring of constructional activities will be part of the development

strategy to further minimise any impacts identified. Furthermore the

proposed monitoring would assist to mitigate any unforeseen impacts that

may occur.


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B. PROJECT DESCRIPTION

B.1 Purpose of the report and need for the EIA

This document presents the findings of an Environmental Impact Assessment

(EIA) for the construction of a Maritime Survival Training Centre at K. Villingili.

The centre will have a harbour (40m in length, 22m in width) for life boat and

emergency evacuation training. Part of the land allocated for the project has to

be reclaimed. Estimated area of reclamation is 3700m2 (volume of dredged

material required, 2856m3). Development projects are required to carryout

EIA studies under the Environment Protection and Preservation Act of

Maldives. The developer is required to obtain approval of the Ministry of

Environment, Water and Energy prior to the implementation of any

development activities on the island or on the reef system.

Land and Marine Environmental Resource Group Pte Ltd (consultant) have

been contracted by the Maldives College of Higher Education (client), to

prepare the EIA and to provide assistance in other environmental related

activities of the project. This EIA is thus prepared by the consultant is in

accordance with Maldives Environmental Impact Assessment guidelines, and

other relevant regulations and guidelines applicable to the proposed project.

B.2 Procedure of the EIA

All the development projects that have a socioeconomic relevance are required

to submit an environmental impact report which forms the basis for project

approval. As such projects are required to follow a screening process

identifying the environmental impacts associated with the project. As the

regulator, MEEW based on the impacts associated with project makes a

decision on the nature of the report to be submitted. An EIA shall be submitted

for projects with significant impacts whereas an IEE suits for projects without

significant impacts. The screening process required to submit an EIA which

requires an approval of the scope of work for the report in consultation with

MEEW. In accordance to the regulations of Ministry of Environment, Energy

and Water, a letter was send stating to the nature of the project and likely

impacts associated. The study parameters stated in the letter will be used as

the TOR for the EIA as agreed by the Ministry of Environment, Energy and

Water (see Annex 1 for the letter).


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The project proponent revealed the project to the consultant before a site

inspection was carried out to assess the conditions at the site and determine

the potential impacts. Qualitative methods were used to determine the coastal

processes and areas affected: qualitative methods to assess substrate types

and cover on the areas concerned by the works, as well as downstream from

this area. This study was complemented with both land and underwater

photographs of the area in question.

The following tasks were undertaken in carrying out the EIA study:

Task 1. Description of the Proposed Project - Provide a full description of

the overall project using plans, maps and graphic aids at

appropriate scales. This is to include: project locations; general

layout (size, capacity, etc.); land and lagoon areas selected for

development, construction methodology (excavation works, wharf

etc.), site management, operation and maintenance activities;

plans for providing utilities, waste disposal, sewage treatment

and other necessary services; and employment.

Task 2. Description of the Environment - Describe the physical,

ecological, demographic setting of the project. Survey and

present information provides a detail assessment of the existing

conditions of the site. Assemble, evaluate and present baseline

data on the relevant environmental characteristics of the study

area, including the following:

a- Physical environment; reef line; depth measurements;

seawater quality; climate and meteorology and coastal

oceanography.

b- Biological environment: flora and fauna of the terrestrial,

coastal environment, and coral reef ecosystems around the

island.

Task 3. Legislative and Regulatory Considerations - Describe the pertinent

environmental laws, regulations and standards governing harbour

developments, environmental quality, health and safety,

protection of marine and terrestrial flora and fauna, protection of

endangered species, and construction of tourism facilities.


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Task 4. Determination of Potential Impacts – Identify the major issues of

environmental concern and indicate their relative importance to

the design of the project. Distinguish long-term and short-term

impacts, construction and post-construction phase impacts.

Identify the significant impacts and those that are cumulative,

unavoidable or irreversible.

Task 5. Mitigation and Management of Negative Impacts – Recommend

feasible and cost-effective measures to prevent or to reduce the

significant negative impacts to acceptable levels.

Task 6. Development of a Monitoring Plan - Prepare the outline of a plan

for monitoring the impacts of the project and the implementation

of mitigating measures during construction and preconstruction.

Task 7. Determination of Project Alternatives – Examine alternatives to

the project including the no-action option.


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C. PROJECT DESCRIPTION

C.1 Project Proponent

Project proponent of the proposed project is Maldives College of Higher

Education. The Maritime Survival Training Centre will be managed by the

Centre for Maritime Studies. This centre is a faculty of Maldives College of

Higher Education.

C.2 The Project

The proposed development project involves reclamation of land (2856 m3),

dredging a small harbour (40m in length and 22m in width) for life boat

evacuation and emergency jumping training (880 m3) and break water of 36m

long and 6.9m wide will be constructed at the western side of the harbour area

to protect the harbour. The Harbour area will be sheet piled. Entrance area will

also be dredged to -4.5MSL. Class room and changing facilities will be built on

the reclaimed land (see Annex 2 for the scaled drawings of the site, harbour

and the buildings).

Figure 1 Project layout (see Annex 2 for scaled drawings set)


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C.3 Project Location

The island of Villingili is located on the southern periphery of K. Atoll, in the

Maldivian Island chain (Figure 5). The project site is located at the western side

of the Villingili south of the commercial harbour (Figure 3). The area was

previously used as a boat yard for repairing works of vessels. Part of the

vessel repair yard will be reclaimed under the proposed project. Furthermore,

currently allocated commercial plots temporarily allocated to fish processors

and other type of processors at cottage level falls within the allocated

boundary. Alternative sites both for boat repair harbour and commercial plots

have been identified by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development (see

Annex 3 for the land-use plan of Villingili demarcating the allocated land for

the Maritime Survival Training Centre and alternative site for commercial

plots; section E5).

Figure 2 Edge of small finger like reclaimed process (left), cement pavement damaged over the years, this area was used by landing crafts (right)

Figure 3 Project site location at K. Villingili


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C.4 Need for the Project

The centre of Maritime Studies conducts various types of seamanship

trainings. The faculty for Maritime Studies is mandated with training seafarers

to internationally required qualities and efficiency. These training programs

have to comply with the requirements of IMO conventions on Standard of

Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW). Among the trainings,

personal survival techniques and proficiency in survival craft and rescue boat

training needs a water tank or pool to conduct the training with safety to

trainees.

For the above mentioned trainings, emergency evacuation training consists of

abandoning vessels (jumping off) during a fire related or similar scenario. For

this training a pool constructed inland would be considerably deep, which will

have lots of maintenance problems (e.g. flushing, filtration). The easiest way

would be to have a harbour like enclosure that has a depth of 4-4.5m. Since

the training involves simulation of real event the participants have to jump

from a tower that has similar height as a cargo or similar class vessel.

Also since Maldives has signed the IMO convention, the government focal point

has to provide the trainings for its international and national commercial

seafarers. Shipping is a competitive and high-tech international industry;

therefore it is imperative that Maldives train its seafarers to international

standards to keep pace with other countries.

C.5 Location and extent of site boundaries

The proposed Maritime survival Training Centre will be located at the western

side of the island, south of the commercial harbour close to the now

abandoned vessel repair yard (Figure 2, 3). The area has already been modified

over the years; the proposed site is also part of a reclaimed portion of

Villingili.

Project boundaries are defined by the dominant current flow (tidal currents)

experienced at the area. Strong tidal currents are experienced at channels

near Male’ (Gaadhoo kolu, channel between Male’ and Villingili and Channel

between Villingili and Gulhifalhu). Direct impact area for the proposed project

is the immediate project area, whilst the indirect impact areas are northern

and southern side of the project area (Figure 4).


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Figure 4 Project site boundaries, giving direct and indirect impact areas from excavation and dredging works

C.6 Construction phases and schedule for

implementation

At the time of field surveys and report compilation, the bidding process was

on-going; therefore the consultants are not informed of a specific time period

for the development works. However, according to the proponent construction

works have to be completed within 6 months. Therefore this timeframe was

taken into consideration to describe the environmental conditions inherent to

the project site. Wind, wave and current related impacts were assessed for

both northeast and southwest monsoon to reflect the duration of the

construction phase.

Work schedules of similar dredging and excavation projects were used by the

consultants to draw up a work schedule for the proposed project (harbour

development at various islands in Maldives). According to the project


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proponent they estimate 2-3 months for dredging and reclamation works.

After that the sheet piling and levelling works will be done. After completion of

the dredging and reclamation works, the sea wall protecting the harbour area

will be constructed. After the levelling works is finished construction of davits,

jumping platforms and class room facility will be initiated.

Table 1 Construction schedule for the Maritime Survival Training Centre

No. DescriptionFebruary March April May July August October

1 Bidding 2 Mobilization3 Excavation and dredging works4 Sheet piling, inside and outside5 Construction of sea wall6 Construction of Devits and platforms

7Construction of class room and changing facility

8 Demobilazation

June September

Work schedule for harbour construction2007

C.7 Major inputs - Construction materials, methods

and processes

At the time of this study, the bid hasn’t been awarded to a contractor yet;

therefore method of excavation or dredging is not informed to the consultants.

Therefore projects of similar nature were used to assess suitable methods that

could be used for the proposed project.

Due relatively small dredging and excavation involved in the project, most

economical method would be to use excavators. One excavator will be enough

to do the reclamation and dredging works. 2-3 trucks and bulldozer have to

be used for levelling the ground. Sheet piling can be done either using the

excavator with a hammer or crane with driving equipment. For the

construction of seawall, a crane loaded on to a barge will be used. The rocks

for the seawall construction will be loaded on to the barge for their

deployment.

Since the project location is at an inhabited island, constructing temporary

accommodation isn’t required, but temporary storage shed may have to be

built. Method and location of accommodating construction workforce depends

on the contractor; either in Malé where the workforce can commute daily to

the work site or in Villingili in rented accommodation.


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Major input of the proposed project is reclamation of 3700m2 area of land

(volume 2856m3) and dredging of a harbour 40m in length and 22m in width

to a depth of -4.5m (MSL). The dredged material removed (880 m3) during

harbour basin excavation will be use as filling during reclamation. At present

the entrance and entrance channel of the harbour for the proposed project has

depth of -2.1m (MSL) and is sandy (probably dredged during construction of

the temporary vessel repair yard).

Materials needed for the proposed project can be brought to the site either

using the existing commercial harbour north of the site. Trucks or lorries can

be used to transport the material to the site. The materials can be stored on

the reclaimed land. Rocks for the sea wall can be brought to the site on a

barge. Since the construction of davits, platform and class room facilities will

be initiated after the reclamation and dredging works, the harbour constructed

under the project can also be used for downloading the construction materials.

Since the bid is not awarded to a contractor, the number of labourers to be

stationed at project site has not been brought to the knowledge of the

consultants. Therefore work force used in similar projects is used to estimate

the number of workers used during the peak period of construction. For the

reclamation and dredging works total of 10 workers could be used (including

heavy machine and equipment operators), for the sea wall construction 6

workers and for the rest around 30 workers.

Electricity for the construction site can be met by portable generator sets or

pubic electricity grid of Villingili. In case portable generator sets are used, fuel

has to be stored in barrels on land. No groundwater will be used for the

construction works, since it is not recommended by the environmental

consultants and project consultants. Therefore freshwater will be brought to

the site on tanks (plastic tanks of volume 3000-5000liters). The sewage out

lets from the toilets in the changing room will be connected to the Villingili

sewerage grid. Detail drawings of the harbour, seawall, and class rooms are

given in Annex 2.


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Table 2 Inputs for the development project- construction and operational phase

Input resource(s) Type Method of purchase/obtain

20-30 Construction workers and laboures (at peak)

Local, foreign By bidding and announcement in local newspapers

Construction material

Harbour: Bolts, nuts, angles, sheetpiles, bollards, tires, GI pipes, metal rods paving blocks Sea wall: 3 class rocks (amour rocks, filter stones) Davits, platforms: Cement, rods, GI pipes, nuts, bolts, machine screws, river sand, aggregate, timber, paving rocks, nails Class room and changing facility: electrical cables and wires, DBs and MCBs, PVC pipes, light weight, telephone cable CAT 5, PVC conduits, floor and wall tiles, gypsum boards, calcium silicate boards, zinc coated corrugated metal roof, paint, varnish, lacquer, thinner, timber, nails, bolts, screws etc

Purchase locally (depend on the contractor)

Fresh water Desalinated water, Purchase from MWSC at Villingili

Electricity/Energy Diesel generators (depending on contract) or Villingili electrical grid

Depends on contractor

Electrical appliances/machinery

Energy efficient machinery and lighting; ozone-friendly refrigerators (class room and changing facility)

Local suppliers

Construction Phase

Fire fighting equipment Fire pumps, Fire protection system, Smoke detectors; Carbon dioxide and Foam fire extinguishers.

Import or local supply/ Local companies will be contracted for maintenance of equipment (depends on project proponent)

5-6 staff Local Depends on the Project proponent

Maintenance material Timber, wooden shingles for roof, electrical cables, electrical appliances, paint

Depends on Project proponent (maintenance work awarded by bidding)

Fresh water Desalinated water for 8 toilets Villingili water grid (MWSC)

Electricity/Energy For class room, changing facility and harbour

Villingili electrical grid

Operational phase

Telecommunications PABX system, fax machines, e-mail and internet facilities

Local suppliers (depends on project proponent)


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C.8 Risks associated with the project

Major risks associated with the project are damage to the marine environment

due to sedimentation by excavation and construction works. Chronic impacts

such as this are cumulative and long term. Coastal modification involved by

this proposed project may have some impacts on the littoral movement of the

island. At present significant coastal modifications have already been carried

out at K. Villingili, therefore hydrodynamic and littoral impacts by this project

is likely to be significantly less compared to the large scale modifications made

at the northern side and southern side (e.g. commercial harbour, Ferry

harbour, reclamation and seawall at southern side). Since the site is located in

between two man made features, the commercial harbour at northern side and

revetment wall and breakwaters at the southern side, the site is effectively

between two terminal groynes trapping the sediment in between creating a

small beach. Therefore impacts on sediment movement by the proposed

coastal modification are likely to be minor, if any.

Damage to live coral is inevitable in development projects such as these.

Major impacts are likely from sedimentation and smothering of live coral and

other benthic organisms (close to the harbour basin and indirect impact areas,

southern and northern side of the project area).

In terms of social impacts, noise pollution at the excavation and construction

site will be an issue. But considering this, at present a number of construction

works are underway at Villingili. Heavy vehicles operating in the area may

cause public safety issues. To counter this, the project area has to be closed

by a fence.


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D. LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE FRAMEWORK

This section outlines the relevant international convections and environmental

legislation pertaining to the development under study for the construction of

Maritime Survival Training Centre at K. Villingili.

D.1 Environment Protection and Preservation Act of

Maldives

The Environmental Protection and Preservation Act of Maldives (Law no:

4/93) is concerned with the natural environment and its resources as a

national heritage that need to be protected and preserved for future

generation, taking in consideration land, water resource, flora, fauna,

beaches, reefs, lagoons and all the natural resources.

Major components of this law include environmental impact assessments prior

to developmental projects that are likely to have significant impact to the

environment. It also refers to specific procedure that should be followed with

regard to waste disposal, oil and poisonous substances. Furthermore,

hazardous, toxic and nuclear waste cannot be disposed in territorial water of

Maldives and any trans-boundary movement of such material shall obtain

prior permission if it is shipped through Maldives.

Under Article 5 (a) of this law, an Environmental Impact Assessment has to

be submitted by the developer of a project which may have potential impacts

on the environment, to the Ministry of Environment, Energy and Water

(MEEW) for approval before commencement of project. The development of

all new resorts is outlined as such a project in the MEEW guidelines.

D.2 By Law, Cutting down, uprooting, digging out

and export of trees and palms from one island to

another

In pursuant to law number 4/93 (Environment Protection and Preservation

Act of Maldives 1993), the Ministry of Environment, Energy and Water has

made a by law with the purpose of educating developers about the


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importance of trees including best management practices for maintaining

trees and provide standards fro preservation of trees in the Maldives and set

down rules and regulations to be adhered to prior to commencing felling,

uprooting, digging out and exporting of trees and palms from one island to

another in Maldives.

The by law states that the cutting down, uprooting, digging out and export of

trees and palms from one island to another can only be done if it is absolutely

necessary and there is no other alternative.

It further states that for every tree or palm removed in the Maldives two

more should be planted and grown in the island.

The by law prohibits the removal of the following tree types;

• The coastal vegetation growing around the islands extending to about

15 meters into the island are protected by this by law;

• All the trees and palms growing in mangrove and wetlands spreading

to 15 meters of land area is protected under this by law;

• All the trees that are in a Government protected area;

• Trees that are being protected by the Government in order to protect

species of animal/organisms that live in such trees;

• Trees/palms that is abnormal in structure

D.3 The National Biodiversity Strategy and Action

Plan 2002

The national Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP) is, in many ways,

an environmental protection strategy and action plan. It establishes a number

of pertinent guiding principles sets three focussed goals and adopts a number

of wide-ranging policies and targets. This brief review identifies those

elements of the NBSAP which are essentially relevant to the present project.

One guiding principle established by the NBSAP is very relevant to coastal

projects in general, viz. “While socio-economic development is essential, it

cannot be achieved at the cost of the environment. Ecological sustainability

must be a major goal in the national development”. Likewise, the following

policy statements must be borne in mind when designing coastal

development projects:


21

• Restrict coastal development projects such as ports only to island that

have been identified in the national/regional development plan.

• Discourage dredging/excavation of small harbour basins for every

inhabited island by encouraging the use of natural harbours (vilu) and

by seeking alternative means, such as jetties to access the islands.

• Retain a shoreline vegetation buffer zone when allocating land for new

housing zones or plots and other physical development activities in the

inhabited islands.

• Prohibit the use of coral for building coastal protection such as seawalls

and promote use of alternative materials

D.4 International Maritime Organization (IMO)

Convention

Maldives joined International Maritime Organization of United Nations in

1967. IMO convention on Standards of Training, Certificates and

Watchkeeping of Seafarers was developed in 1978. The IMO convention

on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping of Seafarers

entered in to full was on 1st February 1997 with the 1995 amendments

which completely revised the convention. The 1978 STCW Convention was

the first to establish basic requirements on training, certification and

watchkeeping for seafarers on an international level. Previously the

standards of training, certifications, and watchkeeping of officers and

rating were established by individual governments, usually without

reference to practices in other countries. As a result standards and

procedures varied, even though shipping is the most international of all

industries.

The Convention prescribes minimum standards relating to training,

certification and watchkeeping for seafarers which countries are obliged to

meet or exceed.

The Convention did not deal with manning levels: IMO provisions in this

area are covered by a regulation in Chapter V of the International

Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS), 1974, whose

requirements are backed up by resolution A.890(21) Principles of safe

manning, adopted by the IMO Assembly in 1999, as amended by


22

Resolution A.955(23) Amendments to the Principles of Safe Manning

(Resolution-A.890(21)).

The Articles of the convention include requirements relating to issues

surrounding certification and port state control.

One especially important feature of the Convention is that it applies to

ships of non-party States when visiting ports of States which are Parties

to the Convention. Article X requires Parties to apply the control measures

to ships of all flags to the extent necessary to ensure that no more

favourable treatment is given to ships entitled to fly the flag of a State

which is not a Party than is given to ships entitled to fly the flag of a State

that is a Party.

While Article VI requires flag States to ensure that seafarers hold

certificates, Article X provides an enforcement mechanism by allowing Port

States to verify that seafarers serving on board hold any required

certificates, and to detain a ship when certain officers are not properly

certificated. The port control aspects of STCW are discussed in more detail

in section 4 of this handbook, under the heading "Regulation I/4 - Control

Procedures."

D.4.1 International Convention on Standards of Training,

Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers, 1978.

Amendments made 1998, 2006

D.4.1.1 Emergency, occupational safety, medical care and survival

functions

Regulation VI/l Familiarization and basic safety training and instruction for all seafarers: The requirements in this regulation are divided into two

categories. The details are specified in section A-VI/l of the STCW Code,

and the required training or instruction must be provided before the

seafarer concerned is assigned any shipboard duties.

All seafarers (i.e., persons who are working on the ship and are not

classified as passengers) must receive either (i) approved training in

personal survival techniques, based on table VI/l-l; or (ii) sufficient

information and instruction to be able to take steps in an emergency to

respond quickly, properly and safely. A checklist of these skills is set out


23

in Section A-VI/l of the STCW Code. All seafarers who are working on the

ship as part of the complement involved in manning, watchkeeping,

emergency response training or instruction in four areas: personal

survival; fire prevention and fire-fighting; elementary first-aid; and

personal safety and social responsibilities. The standards of competence

for these areas are set out in four-column tables in Section AVI/1 of the

STCW Code. Seafarers subject to this training requirement must provide

evidence of achieving or maintaining the standard of competence within

the previous five years of being assigned shipboard duties.

Except in respect of seafarers on passenger ships of over 500 gross tons

on international voyages, and tankers, specific training requirements may

be modified to suit a ship’s size and the length or character of its voyage.

Regu1ation VI/2 - Proficiency in survival craft rescue boats and fast rescue boats: Under this regulation, a candidate for a certificate of proficiency in

survival craft and rescue boats must (a) meet a minimum age

requirement, (b) have approved seagoing service or a combination of

approved training and seagoing service; and (c) meet the relevant

standard of competence set out in Section AVI/2 of the STCW Code. A

four-column table is provided in that section of the code. (This section of

the code is referred to in the standard of competence in Chapters II and

III, under the function of controlling the operation of the ship and care for

persons on board at the operational level.)

In addition to meeting the requirements described in the previous

paragraph, a candidate for a certificate of proficiency in fast rescue boats

must (a) attend an approved training course; and (b) meet the relevant

standard of competence set out in a four-column table in Section A-VI/2

of the STCW Code.

Regulation VI/3 - Training in advanced fire-fighting: Those responsible for

controlling fire-fighting operations on seagoing ships must (a) complete

advanced training in techniques for fire-fighting, with an emphasis on

organization, tactics and command, and (b) meet the standard of

competence set out in the four-column table in Section A-VI/3 of the

STCW Code. Unless this training is already included as a qualification for a

certificate (as it is for certain operational level certificates under Chapter

II and III), the seafarer concerned is to be issued documentary evidence

of having attended the training.


24

Seafarers subject to this training requirement must provide evidence of

achieving or maintaining the standard of competence within the previous

five years of being certificated.

Regulation VI/4 - Requirements relating to medical first-aid and medical care: Those responsible for "providing" medical first-aid on seagoing ships must

meet the standard of competence in medical first aid as set out in the

four-column table in Section A-VI/4 of the STCW Code. This standard,

which is higher than elementary first aid, must be met by officers at the

operational level under Chapters II and III. The master must be able to

organize and manage the provision of medical care on board under Table

A-II/2.

Those designated to take charge of medical care on seagoing ships must

meet the standard of competence in medical care as set out in the four-

column table in Section A-VI/4 of the STCW Code.

Unless this training is already included as a qualification for a certificate

(as it is for a management level certificates under regulation 11/2), the

seafarer concerned is to be issued documentary evidence of having

attended the appropriate training.

Except in respect of seafarers on passenger ships of over 500 gross tons

on international voyages, and tankers, specific training requirements may

be modified to suit a ship’s size and the length or character of its voyage.

Regu1ation VI/2 - Proficiency in survival craft rescue boats and fast rescue boats: Under this regulation, a candidate for a certificate of proficiency in

survival craft and rescue boats must (a) meet a minimum age

requirement, (b) have approved seagoing service or a combination of

approved training and seagoing service; and (c) meet the relevant

standard of competence set out in Section AVI/2 of the STCW Code. A

four-column table is provided in that section of the code. (This section of

the code is referred to in the standard of competence in Chapters II and

III, under the function of controlling the operation of the ship and care for

persons on board at the operational level.)

In addition to meeting the requirements described in the previous

paragraph, a candidate for a certificate of proficiency in fast rescue boats

must (a) attend an approved training course; and (b) meet the relevant


25

standard of competence set out in a four-column table in Section A-VI/2

of the STCW Code.

Regulation VI/3 - Training in advanced fire-fighting: Those responsible for

controlling fire-fighting operations on seagoing ships must (a) complete

advanced training in techniques for fire-fighting, with an emphasis on

organization, tactics and command, and (b) meet the standard of

competence set out in the four-column table in Section A-VI/3 of the

STCW Code. Unless this training is already included as a qualification for a

certificate (as it is for certain operational level certificates under Chapter

II and III), the seafarer concerned is to be issued documentary evidence

of having attended the training.

Seafarers subject to this training requirement must provide evidence of

achieving or maintaining the standard of competence within the previous

five years of being certificated.

Regulation VI/4 - Requirements relating to medical first-aid and medical care: Those responsible for "providing" medical first-aid on seagoing ships must

meet the standard of competence in medical first aid as set out in the

four-column table in Section A-VI/4 of the STCW Code. This standard,

which is higher than elementary first aid, must be met by officers at the

operational level under Chapters II and III. The master must be able to

organize and manage the provision of medical care on board under Table

A-II/2.

Those designated to take charge of medical care on seagoing ships must

meet the standard of competence in medical care as set out in the four-

column table in Section A-VI/4 of the STCW Code.

Unless this training is already included as a qualification for a certificate

(as it is for a management level certificates under regulation 11/2), the

seafarer concerned is to be issued documentary evidence of having

attended the appropriate training.


26

D.4.1.2 Special training requirements for personnel on certain

types of ships

Regulation V/1 - Training and qualification of masters, officers

and ratings on tankers: Under this regulation, certificates must be

issued in respect of two levels of training for three types of tankers.

Officers and ratings who are assigned specific duties and responsibilities

related to cargo or cargo equipment on tankers must (a) complete an

approved shore based fire-fighting course (b) receive basic safety training

as required under regulation VI of Chapter VI (discussed in section 9 of

this handbook); and (c) either (i) complete at least three months of

approved seagoing service on tankers in order to acquire knowledge of

safe operational practices; or (ii) complete an approved tanker

familiarization course covering the syllabus given in section A-V/i of the

STCW Code. Masters, chief mates, chief engineer officers, and second

engineer officers, as well as any other person who has immediate

(supervisory) responsibility for loading, discharging and care in transit or

handling of cargo, must, in addition to the requirements identified in the

previous paragraph, have experience on the particular type of tanker on

which they serve (in other words, oil, chemical or liquefied gas tanker),

and complete an approved specialized training program covering the

subjects listed in section A-V/i of the STCW Code for the type of tanker

concerned.

Regulation V 2 - Training and qualification of masters, officers and

ratings and other personnel on ro-ro passenger ships: For purposes

of this regulation, the term ‘ro-ro passenger ship" is defined in regulation

III as meaning a passenger ship with roll on – roll off cargo spaces or

special category spaces as defined in SOLAS, as amended. Regulation V/2

only applies to masters, officers and crew serving on ro-ro passenger

ships engaged on international voyages. However, flag States are

obligated to determine the extent to which the requirements in the

regulation should apply to personnel serving on ro-ro passenger ships

engaged on domestic voyages.

The regulation requires personnel on ro-ro passenger ships to have

specialized training, as outlined in section A-V/2 of the STCW Code, in

areas such as crowd management, operational limitations of the ship,

procedures for opening and closing hull openings, special emergency


27

procedures to prevent ingress of water on vehicle decks, loading and

embarkation procedures, and crisis management. Refresher training is

required at least every five years.

Flag States are to ensure that documentary evidence of the completed

training is issued to every person found qualified under the regulation.


28

E. EXISTING ENVIRONMENT

E.1 General setting - Maldives

The Maldives archipelago consists of a double chain of coral atolls, 80 –

120km wide stretching 860km from latitude 7° 6’ 30” N to 0° 41’ 48” S and

longitude 72° 32’ 30 E to 73° 45’ 54” E (Ministry of Construction and Public

Works, 1999). The double chain of Maldivian atolls lies on the parallel

submarine ridges in the central part of Indian Ocean known as Laccadive-

Chagos ridge. The archipelago comprises 25 atolls (Naseer, 2004) grouped

into 20 administrative units. The atolls are separated by east-west running

deeper channels. The atolls vary in shape from circular and oval to elliptical.

The atolls contain 1190 islands, of which only 198 are inhabited. The total

reef area of Maldives is 4,493.85km2 while the total land area is 227.45km2

(Naseer, 2004). Approximately 80% of Maldivian land area is less than 1m

above mean sea-level.

The characteristics of reefs and coral islands of the Maldives vary

considerably from north to south. The atolls to the north are broad banks

discontinuously fringed by reefs with small coral islands and with numerous

patch reefs and faros (the word faros is derived from the Maldivian word

“faru”) in the lagoon. To the south the depth of atoll lagoon increases, faros

and patch reefs are rare in the lagoon, the continuity of the atoll rim is

greater and a large proportion of the perimeter of the atolls is occupied by

islands (Woodroffe, 1992). The islands have shallow reef flats on their

seaward side, some with shingle ramparts at the seaward limit of the reef

flat. The islands and the shingle ramparts owe their origin to the deposition of

shingle or coral debris during storms. A number of islands can be found on a

single reef. These islands may be separated by shallow passages that run

across the reef flat. The width of some of these passages could be less 100m

while some passages are over few hundred meters wide.


29

E.2 Geographic Location and General Setting of K.

Villingili

E.2.1 Island Setting

The island of Villingili lie at coordinates 73°29.1’E and 4°10.4’ N which lies on

the southern periphery of North Male Atoll (Figure 5). To the west at about

1km from Villingili is Gulhifalhu, which is a round shaped faro and to the east

of Villingili is the island of Male. The typical depth within North and South

Male Atolls is about 45 – 50m. Vaadhoo Kandu to the south of Villingili that

separates North and South Male Atoll is a relatively deep channel. This

channel has an average depth of about 400m and a width of about 10Km.

This channel is well known to be a rough channel during the southwest

monsoon.

The reef system accommodating the island of Villingili has an area of

approximately 0.563 km2. The reef flat on the southern and eastern sides of

the island is shallower than the northern side reef flat. The southern side reef

flat is typical of an ocean ward reef flat of the islands of Maldives. The near-

shore environments of Villingili are composed of coralline and other bioclastic

skeletal material derived from the reef. The sediments in this environment

are predominantly coral fragments, calcareous algae (Halimeda) and

foraminiferans. Coral predominates in coarser fraction while the sandy

fraction is mainly Halimeda and foraminifera. The major forces, which

produce sediment on the reef, are storm waves and waves driven by

monsoon winds. Tidal and wave driven currents play a significant role in the

transport of sediment.

A large area of the islands limited reef flat area has been modified to cater for

the needs of the population on the island. As such almost the entire reef flat

area on the northern side of the island has been dredged to create small

harbours (ferry and small commercial harbour). A large area of the reef flat

on the southern side of the island has also been reclaimed in association with

the development of the harbour in 2003. The extent of the reclamation

reaches almost up to the reef edge. The ocean-ward extent of this reclaimed

land is protected with a rubble mound revetment.


30

Figure 5 Geographic location of Villingili at north Male’ atoll

E.2.2 Climatology

The local Maldivians divide the climate of the Maldives into four monsoon

periods that are characterised by very different wind climate, rain fall. These

four seasons are (Table 3) the NE monsoon (Iruvai moosun), Transitonal

period from NE monsoon to SW monsoon (Hulhangu halha), SW monsoon

(Hulhangu moosun) and Transtional period from SW monsoon to NE monsoon

(Iruvai halha).

Table 3 Summary of four seasons in Maldives

Season Month

December

January

NE-Monsoon

(Iruvai moosun) February

March Transition Period 1

(Hulhangu halha) April


31

May

June

July

August

SW-Monsoon

(Hulhangu moosun

September

October Transition Period 2

(Iruvai halha) November

Generally the SW monsoon generates westerly winds and the seas are rough

and the period is wetter than the NE monsoon. The NE monsoon in the

Maldives archipelago is marked by north-northeast winds (Woodroffe, 1992)

which are generally lighter and the period is dryer. Storms and gales are

infrequent in this part of the globe and cyclones do not reach as far south as

the Maldives archipelago (Ministry of Construction and Public Works, 1999).

For detail analysis of wind patterns for the four seasons daily wind data for

the years 2002 and 2003 for Male have been studied. The summary of these

analysis indicate the winds in the central regions of Maldives is predominantly

westerly and north easterly (Figure 6). The analysis also indicates that there

is almost no wind from the quadrant between East and South. Analysis of the

wind data for the four seasons (Figure 6) indicate that the during NE monsoon

the wind is predominantly from ENE with wind speeds reaching as high as15

– 20 knots for 8% of this period (3 months). For up to 41% of the time the

wind speed reaches 10 – 15 knots. During Hulhangu halha (2 months) wind

direction varies between SW – E. The predominant wind direction during this

period remains between ENE and E. The maximum wind speed reached

during this period is 14knots. For up to 11% of this period the wind speed

reaches over 10knots. For 43% of the time the wind speed is between 5 and

10knots. During SW monsoon (5 months) the wind direction is distinctly from

W and WNW. Up to 8% of this period the wind speed reaches between 15

and 20knots. For 28% of the time the wind speed reaches between 10 and

15knots. For 51% of the time the wind speed is between 5 and 10knots.

During the transitional period from SW monsoon to NE monsoon (2 months)

the predominant wind direction remains westerly. For up to 26% of the time

wind speed reaches between 15 and 20knots, 22% of the time the wind

speed is between 10 and 15knots, 48% of the time the wind speed reaches

between 5 and 10knots. These results have been confirmed by Kench and

Brander, 2005 to be consistent with the mean long term trend in the wind

climate in the central region of the Maldives.


32

All seasons

NE monsoon

SW monsoon Iruvai Halha (T2)

Hulhangu Halha (T1)

Figure 6 Wind rose plots for the four seasons in Male region (daily wind data for the years 2002 and 2003 obtained from Department of Meteorology, Maldives)


33

E.2.2.1 Tide

Tides experienced in the Maldives are mixed semi-diurnal and diurnal with a

strong diurnal inequality. A tide station at Male International Airport has

continuous records of tide for over the past 30 years. The maximum tidal

range recorded at this tide station is 1.20m. The highest astronomical tide

level is +0.64m (MSL) and the lowest astronomical tide level is -0.56m (MSL)

(Table 4). Due to close proximity of the permanent tide station at Male

International Airport (Hulhule) it was assumed that the tidal signal at Hulhule

will be the same as that at Villingili. Therefore the tidal datum for Hulhule

applied at Villingili.

Table 4 Table summarizing tide levels at Hulhule Island, Male Atoll.

Tide level

Water level referred to Mean Sea Lev

(MSL) (m)

Highest Astronomical Tide (HAT) +0.64

Mean Higher High Water (MHHW) +0.34

Mean Lower High Water (MLHW) +0.14

Mean Sea Level (MSL) 0.0

Mean Higher Low Water (MHLW) -0.16

Mean Lower Low Water (MLLW) -0.36

Lowest Astronomical Tide (LAT) -0.56

Figure 7 Tidal recordings at Hulhule


34

Figure 8 Spectral density graph for the tidal records presented in figure 7

E.2.2.2 Waves

Information on the swells around Maldives is limited, but there have been a

few studies carried out around Male and Fuahmulah (southern region of

Maldives). Wave data for Male that were recorded for the period between

June 1988 and January 1990 revealed that the maximum significant wave

height (Hs) recorded for the month of June 1989 was 1.23m with a mean

period (Tm) of 7.53s. For the month of July 1989 maximum recorded Hs was

1.51m and the corresponding Tm was 7.74s. In June and July 1989 mean

wave periods were 5.0 – 9.0s and the peak wave periods within 8.0 – 13.0s.

Wave data for the period between September 1988 and July 1989 shows a

probability of exceedance of Hs = 1.0 m was approximately 0.1 and of Hs =

1.5 m was approximately 0.0015 based on the wave data of period

September 1988 to July 1989.

JICA, (1992) reported that the wave climate in Male region is generally higher

in the months of June, July and August with a predominant wave direction of

S (180o). During October-December the waves have a shorter period with

wave directions varying from S and W (180o -270o) (Figure 9).


35

Figure 9 Graphs showing the significant wave height and wave directions in the southern region of Maldives (source: DHI, 1999)

According to DHI, (1999) the significant wave height (Hs) in the southern

regions of Maldives exceeds 3m in about 0.1percent of the time (Figure 10).

Figure 5 also shows that the highest waves are from W and S. From NW, N,

NE and E, significant wave height exceeds 1m in less than about one per cent

of the time.

Figure 10 Wave height, Hs, exceedence curves for southern region of Maldives (Source DHI, 1999)


36

Deepwater wave information for the region obtained from global wave climate

data indicates that the dominant swell approaches Maldivian archipelago from

southerly quarters (Young 1999) (Figure 10). On a seasonal basis, swell is

from the south-southwest from March to October with a peak significant wave

height (Hs) of 1.8 m in July, and from the southeast from November to

February with a minimum mean Hs of 0.75 m in March. During the field visit, monsoonal wind generated waves were experienced at

the western side of the island. Wind direction during field surveys was north

eastern direction. Since the commercial harbour is located at the northern

side, the project area is considerably sheltered. Since the weather was calm

during the field visit, wave action at Vaadhoo channel was low.

During the south west monsoon, wind direct will be from south west to west.

The presence of large ring reef, Gulhi falhu protects the western side of

Villingili. But during rough weather swell induced waves break off at the south

western corner of Villingili reef. During the south west monsoon the project

site will be sheltered. Diffracted waves hitting the southern corner of Villingili

channel may create circular currents at the southern side of the Villingili

channel (see figure 12 for general wave direction for K. Villingili).


37

Figure 11 Global distributions of mean monthly values of the mean wave direction, for the months of January, April, July and October. Values are shown as direction vectors (from Young, 1999).


38

Figure 12 Map showing the types of waves experienced at K. Villingili


39

Figure 13 Current measurements taken using drogues, recording interval at 30s


40

Current measurements at the western side and southern side of the island,

using a drogue that was tracked with a DGPS system provided limited

information on the current pattern at the project location (figure 13). These

data indicated that the current at the project location is driven by the wind

generated waves and tidal currents flowing through the Villingili channel and

Vaadhoo channel. At the time of drogue tracking exercise the tidal current

was flowing out of the atoll lagoon. This is recorded by the tracks, during a

mid tide, as a slow mowing current at a maximum speed of 0.17m/s. But at

the central area of the channel, currents created by waves at the Vaadhoo

channel breaking at the south eastern corner of Gulhi falhu, creates a wirl

pool current (area where both currents meet).

Current measurements taken at the Vaadhoo channel close to the Villingili

channel entrance recorded currents speed at a maximum 0.57m/s. Waves

converging to shallow reef slope area creates a current at slow speed of

0.29m/s. This current then moves into the channel, where it meets the

current generated by the wind waves and tide flux.

E.3 Beach Environment

Significant alterations and modifications have been made to the Villingili

shoreline over the past several years. Among the modifications, the ferry

terminal at the north eastern side of the island, Commercial harbour at

northern western side of the island, reclamation and seawall at southern side

have significantly impacted the beach environment of Villingili. A somewhat

modified stretch of beach (partly replenished beach suing sediments from a

previous reclamation project) in the proximity of the project is at the northern

south of the commercial harbour. This beach is relatively stable in the area

because; the commercial harbour wall and vessel repair yard acts as two

terminal groynes trapping the sediments with little change to the shoreline

due to alternating monsoons. During the north east monsoon the beach

accumulates at the vessel harbour/boat repair area. During south west

monsoon the beach accumulates at the commercial harbour area (figure 14,

15). At the time this survey (north east monsoon) the beach is accumulated

at vessel harbour/boat repair end.

The sediment movement at the southern side of Villingili is also obstructed

trapped in between two man-made coastal structures. The revetment wall of

waste management area and the coastal protection constructed at the south


41

eastern side (granite rock composed break water). During north east

monsoon sediment accumulates at the waste management site area, whilst

during the south west monsoon this sand is transported to the reclaimed bay

like area at the southern side (see annex 3 to identify various locations).

At present a natural beach is formed on the eastern side of the island in

between the projection of the shoreline extending east and the expanded

ferry harbour somewhat creating a bay. The beach here is likely to alternate

to in response to monsoonal winds and near-shore currents. In short, due to

the coastal modifications that exist around the island with several terminal

groynes there is very little room for beach sediments to move around the

island and the extent of beach movement is determined by these coastal

structures.

Figure 14 Accretion of sand at the northern side of the project area and southern side of waste management area at Villingili (Photo taken during February 2007)

Figure 15 Condition of the small beach strip observed at the northern side of the project area, erosion observed at the northern side, whilst accretion observed at the southern side close to project area (photo taken during February 2007)


42

E.4 Marine Environment

E.4.1 Introduction

This EIA report presents the environmental impacts associated with the

construction of Maritime Survival Training Centre at K. Villingili (western side

of the island). Impacts associated with such projects maybe multiple and

cumulative, and in some cases can lead to significant damages to the

environment. Purpose of this survey is to describe the current status of the

environment and also to establish a baseline for monitoring possible impacts

related to the project on major marine habitats.

E.4.2 Methodology

In order to assess the status of the marine environment in the vicinity of the

proposed project location was surveyed. Documenting the status of the reef

benthic community prior to start of construction works of the project was

considered as a major component of the marine environment that could be

used to monitor impacts to the marine environment especially due to the

project construction and operation activities.

The reef benthic community in the vicinity of the project site were studied

using standard marine survey methodologies. These include photographic

quadrat survey method for the assessment of reef benthic community and the

visual census methodology for the assessment of the fish community. One

square meter frame was used along a fixed transect line in the vicinity of the

proposed development area, photographs taken every meter along a 20 meter

transect line. Same transect line was used as the basis for the fish survey to

assess the abundance and diversity of reef fish at the time of the survey. The

locations of the reef surveys are given in Figure 16. These survey methods are

widely practiced in coral reef ecological surveys in many coral reef areas of the

world and the methodology is described in survey manual for tropical marine

studies (English et al., 1997).


43

Figure 16 Location of survey sites and seawater sampling sites at Villingili reef


43

E.4.3 Results and discussion

E.4.3.1 Reef benthos

The reef comprising Villingli is an atoll rim ring reef on the south-western end

of North Male atoll (figure 5). This reef is separated from the other reefs by

two channels on its west and east. On the east is the Villingili channel between

Male and Villingili and on the west is Gulheefalhu (ring reef) separated by a

narrow channel. Reef morphology here is characteristic of typical atoll out side

reefs with poorly developed spur and groove formation at wave break zone.

On the north side the reef is characterized by a typical atoll inner reef. With

two channels on either side of the reef, the reef complex of Villingili is

surrounded by a diversity of habitats.

Villingili has a history of various types of developments. Prior to 1970s the

island was used as a jail, subsequently developed as a tourist resort until early

1980s until it was decided to develop to meet the housing demand for Male’.

As such, the existing urbanization started in 1980s and slowly became a dense

population centre next to Male’. Along this development include the

requirement for various infrastructures, which include expansion of the old

harbour, waste disposal and collection centre. The land required for this

infrastructure development was reclaimed by material dredged from the

shallow lagoon. As such the land reclaimed and developed on the shallow reef

flat added to the landmass and the reclamation extended to the reef edge

from north and west side of the island exhausting the extend of reclamation.

Because of this reclamation the outer reef flat and reef slope has been

considerably modified.

This ecological study is an attempt to describe the existing marine

environmental condition at the proposed project site. It has been recognized

that the proposed project implementation would have little impact on

ecological functioning of the reef. It is evident that significant environmental

impact has already resulted through various coastal development activities

over the past several decades. These include Villingili ferry terminal, Villingili

harbour, reclamation works on the southern side of Villingili and reclamation

works associated with waste disposal site of Villingili on the western shoreline.

These activities have directly resulted in substantial change not only to the


44

coastal hydrodynamics but also adjoining coastal habitats almost exclusively to

the coral reefs. It is also evident that some modification has been resulted to

the reef ecosystem in the vicinity.

Live coral cover was relatively low for all surveyed sites (figure 17). Coral cover

ranged from very low 5% to 8% between the sites surveyed at the proposed

reclamation area and the vicinity around 2 to 3 meter depth. Over 40% of the

reef substrate consisted of coral rock, rubble and sand. Turf algae covered

approximately 40% of the reef substrate covering the dead corals and reef

pavement. These rubbles have originated from dead branching corals that may

have been part of the coral community in these locations.

0

5

10

15

20

25

30

35

40

45

Live

cor

al

Roc

k

Rub

ble

San

d

Turf

alga

e

Mac

ro a

lgae

Asc

idia

ns

Sof

t cor

al

Cor

allin

e al

gae

Oth

ers

% c

over

Figure 17 Reef substrate in the vicinity if the proposed development site. 95% confidence interval for each category is shown. n=3

Coral species diversity was low for all the surveyed transects and was similar

to both sites and depths surveyed (figure 18). Branching coral species (mainly

Acropora sp) were few but recorded from all transects. Recently settled

corals are not common in the survey area. The presence of adult colonies in

the area indicates that it potentially would be the source of larvae as new coral

settlement. However, in the presence of environmental stress such as

sedimentation, mortality of newly settled corals would be high. Smothering of

newly settled corals and its death would therefore be high on horizontal

surfaces compared to vertical surfaces. Massive types of corals such as poritids


45

and several species of Faviids (Favia, Favites, Pavona and Leptoria) are

present among the live coral cover. The dominant coral genera were Porites

(76%) and 5 genera of the family Faviidae accounting to 19%. Pavona was

low in abundance (2%). In general coral of massive growth forms are

dominant corals among the coral community. Pocillopora (mainly Pocillopora

verrrucosa) accounted for less than 2% of the live coral cover (figure 18).

Porites76%

Favia4%

Favites5%

Leptoria6%

Others2%

Pocillopora1%

Platygyra2%

Hydnophora2%

Pavona2%

Figure 18 Generic composition of the live coral community

Previous studies at Villingili reported similar results on reef benthos. Direct

comparison of the can be made on live coral cover reported at the same site

as part of an environmental evaluation for a reclamation project by Ministry of

Housing and Urban Development (Environmental Evaluation for the Proposed

Reclamation and Coastal Protection Works at Villingili, Male atoll, 2006). Live

coral cover reported from this site ranged from 2 to 8% with an average cover

of 5% from 4 transects. This is in agreement with the coral cover estimated

from this study.


46

Figure 19 Porites lobata colony observed at the southern western side of the reef (left), three species of butterfly fish was observed at survey sites, two species of butterfly as seen in this picture, Hemiturichthys zoster and Chaetodon melannotus

Similarly, a large-scale survey around the reef system of Villingili conducted in

1998 as part of ecological assessment of Villingili harbour development

project. Live coral cover for the outer reef stations reported from this study

varied from 12-27%. Coral cover in the atoll channel (close to this project

site) was reported higher (20%) in the reef slope compared to the

corresponding reef flat stations. Live coral cover then (1998 study) at

approximately same location of the present study reported approximately 7-

15%. Comparable figures to reef health to the previous estimations were also

reported in 1988 in Villingili Development Plan, a report prepared by United

Nations Centre for Human Settlement in 1988 (UNCHS/project MDV 88/006).

Based on this information and the results of the present study it can be

concluded that the reef environment around Villingili has experienced some

inevitable damage to the reef as result of the reclamation and show a declining

trend in coral cover over the past few decades. Large part of reef flat of

Villingili has been reclaimed very close to the reef edge for various coastal

development projects consequently leading to the current status of the reef. In

addition to these coastal development projects, natural causes may also have

contributed to degradation of the reef. Among these, the most significant

damage to the reefs has been caused by coral bleaching event which severely

affected the reefs in Maldives. Live coral cover in shallow reef areas around

Maldives was reduced from 40-60% (average value for a healthy reef) to less

than 5%. In addition there is significant evidence that the reefs are

compounded with solid waste either direct disposal to the reef or spill over

during the transport of waste to Thilafushi. It also noteworthy to mention that

prior to the current waste management practice the waste generated from


47

Villingili was disposed as a landfill in Villingili. This has lead to substantial level

of solid waste pollution on the reef environment. There are no studies on

impact of pollution specific to this site to substantiate whether the current reef

status resulted from waste disposal on to the reef. However it is likely that

harmful leachates from the waste may be a significant factor influencing to the

current deteriorated state of the reef, especially due to the proximity of the

waste disposal site to the shoreline.

Figure 20 Effects of shore-based fishing and mis-management of solid waste; dense mesh of monofilament line from high intensity shore based fishing (left) and fish waste disposed to the reef from a nearby semi industrial fish processing household.

E.4.3.2 Reef fish community

Fish census surveys showed similar trends in terms of abundance of fish at the

two sites surveyed. Between 35 species of fishes belonging to 11 groups of

fish were recorded (Table 5, 6). Schools of damselfishes, surgeon-fishes and

fusilier form school within the study area. The densities of fish grouped as

families are given in (Table 5, 6). Butterfly fishes and parrot-fishes are good in

species diversity despite the low live coral cover. The reef slope is

characterized by relatively high topographic relief which may have been the

reason for the diversity and abundance of fish species (figure 21).

Commercially valuable food fishes such as jacks and snappers are also

recorded here though not in abundance. Fusiliers, a popular baitfish species

are also observed schooling in the vicinity.


48

Table 5 Fish census survey at the proposed project area

Name Species Numbers Species Numbers Species Numbers

CHAETODONTIDATE (Butterflyfishes) 5 10 3 12 2 8POMACANTHIDAE (Angelfishes) 2 3 2 14 1 7SCARIDAE (Parrotfishes) 5 8 4 13 2 7LUTJANIDAE (Snappers) 2 8 3 6 2 5CARANGIDAE (Jacks) 1 8 2 7 1 3

LETHRINIDAE (Emperors) 1 4 1 4 1 5POMACENTRIDAE (Damselfishes) 3 schools 1 12 3 34ACANTHURIDAE (Surgeonfishes) 4 schools 2 34 2 35CAESIONIDAE (Fusiliers) 2 schools 2 15 0 schoolsSERRANIDAE (Groupers) 1 4 2 5 1 2LABRIDAE (Wrasses) 4 10 3 9 2 13

Total 30 55 25 131 17 119 Table 6 Fish diversity and abundance at the study sites

Name No. of species

Total Number

Density no./m2

CHAETODONTIDATE (Butterflyfishes) 7 30 0.1POMACANTHIDAE (Angelfishes) 2 24 0.1SCARIDAE (Parrotfishes) 5 28 0.1LUTJANIDAE (Snappers) 2 19 0.1CARANGIDAE (Jacks) 2 18 0.1

LETHRINIDAE (Emperors) 1 13 0.0POMACENTRIDAE (Damselfishes) 3 46+ school >0.5ACANTHURIDAE (Surgeonfishes) 5 69+ school > 0.2CAESIONIDAE (Fusiliers) 2 15+ school > 0.3SERRANIDAE (Groupers) 2 11 0.0LABRIDAE (Wrasses) 4 32 0.1


49

Figure 21 Reef slope highly degraded with little coral cover (left), Acanthurus leucosternon schooling at the reef edge in the vicinity of the project site (right)

E.4.3.3 Invertebrates

Very few invertebrates were seen during the field surveys, since most are

cryptic and nocturnal species hiding under rocks and crevices. One species of

sea cucumber were observed at the survey sites, Graeffe’s sea cucumber

(Pearsonothuria graeffei). Two species of giant clams were encountered;

among them the previously commercially exploited species (now protected)

Tridacna maxima was observed. The other species recorded was large giant

clam (Tridacna squamosa); a species usually observed growing in depressions

on large living or dead Porites bommies. Two species (Linckia multifora and

Culcita schedeliana) of sea stars were recorded; these species are mostly

cryptic species and are difficult to observe during field surveys. One Painted

rock lobster (Panulirus versicolor) was observed at the southen side of the

reef.

Two species of soft coral were observed during the field surveys at K. Villingili.

Soft coral species observed at the reef were Finger-lobed leather coral

(Lobophytum sp) and Mushroom leather coral (Sarcophyton sp).

E.4.3.4 Protected marine species

Only one protected marine species were recorded during the field surveys at

K. Villingili. Giant clams (Tridacna squamosa) were observed at survey site S2,

southern side. One Painted rock lobster (Panulirus versicolor) was observed at

the southern side of the reef.


50

E.4.3.5 Sea water quality

Seawater sample was collected at western side of the reef and at proposed

harbour basin area (see figure 16) and analysed for their chemical and physical

properties. The main purpose of this exercise is to provide some indication of

the seawater quality in the reef system and also to form a basis for a

reference and benchmark for subsequent monitoring. Changes in the level of

nutrients in the water column have the potential to affect the benthic

assemblages and hence the reef community as whole. Enhanced nutrients

and sediment loads can have variety of effects on the coral reefs. The

analytical results of the parameters tested to assess the water quality are

given in table 7. Salinity at harbour basin area was 31000 mg/l.

Table 7 Seawater quality parameter at the sampling location in the reef at Villingili. Data analysis was carried out by the National Health Laboratory, Maldives Food and Drug Authority. Report number PHL/RE/WC166

Parameters Sample1

Physical appearance Clear

Apparent colour 6 TCU

Dissolved oxygen (mg/l) 2.8

Sulphate (mg/l) 2450

Salinity (mg/l) 31000

Nitrate (mg/l) 0

pH 7.9

Total Dissolved Solids (mg/l) 32150

Suspended solids (mg/l) 2

Chemical Oxygen Demand (mg/l) 1456

E.4.3.6 Terrestrial

Only the vicinity of the project area was surveyed, since the project will have

no impacts on vegetation or groundwater. The coastline at western side of

Villingili is modified; part of dredge material removed during the excavation

works of commercial harbour is dumped along side. The natural shoreline

vegetation at present is observed as a small band of trees; behind it is a main

road. Only plants were observed at the area, amongst them, Dhiggaa

(Hibiscus tiliaceus) was dominant. Other plants observed were Maggoo


51

(Scaevola taccada), Goats foot creeper (Ipomea pes-caprae), Coconut tree

(Cocos nucifera) and Funna (Calophyllum inophyllum).

Figure 22 Dhiggaa, Funna and Maggoo observed along the small beach strip at the northern side of the project area

E.5 Social Environment

Villigili Island, currently regarded as a 5th ward of Malé was initially developed

to meet the housing requirements of Male as a rapid increase in population in

early 1980s. Population estimates of Villingili in 2006 show over 6800

compared to 4300 in 2000 (National census of Maldives 2006). Over the past

several years of development for housing several basic infrastructures such as

school, health centre and several mosques have been built rapidly filling

available space for development. In addition to these, other large part of the

land has been allocated to Dhiraagu (telecommunication station), Maldives

Defence Force, Maldives Police Services and Centre for Maritime Studies

(CMS). The Centre for Maritime Studies has been in operation for several

years under ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation which is currently under

the umbrella of Maldives College of Higher Education (MCHE).

Large proportion of the population commutes daily to Male for work for both

public and private sector. Since Villingili is considered as 5th ward of Malé, all

the basic infrastructures such as schools, health services, electricity are similar

to the standard in Malé compared to elsewhere in Maldives.


52

Regular and efficient ferry services to and from Malé is provided by MTTC. No

motorised public transport is allowed in Villingili except few vehicles with

special permits.

Commercial plots that falls within the proposed development area has been

relocated as part of the new development plan for Villingili by Ministry of

Housing and Urban Development. The existing plots were only temporary to

relocate some of the small scale industries (e.g. fish processing) in Malé due to

consistent complaints by the community as these were within residential plots

in Malé. A new area has already been allocated to accommodate these and

other similar industries (per.com. Athifa Shukoor, Director, MHUD).

Similarly, the boat repair site has already been allocated in Thilafushi by land

use management authority, Malé Municipalty. According to MHUD there is no

formal boat repair site in Villingili and the current use of this site is illegal as

timeline to remove all the vessels to Thilafishi has expired (per.com. Athifa

Shukoor, Director, MHUD).


53

F. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION

MEASURES Impacts on the environment from various activities of the development works

(constructional impacts) and operation of the harbour (operational impacts)

have been identified through interviews with the Maldives College of Higher

Education, field data collection and surveys and based on past experience in

similar development projects. Possible impacts arising from the construction

and operation works are categorized into reversible and permanent

(irreversible) impacts. The impacts identified are also described according to

their location, extent (magnitude) and characteristics. Reversible and

irreversible impacts are further categorized by intensity of impacts (negligible,

minor, moderate and major) for identifying best possible remedial (mitigation

measures) action to be taken. Below are the impact categories:

• Negligible- the impact has no significant risk to environment either

short term or long term

• Minor- the impact is short term and cause negligible impact on

the environment

• Moderate- Impacts give rise to some concern, may cause long term

environmental problems but are likely short term and

acceptable

• Major- impact is long term, large scale environmental risk

F.1 Activities causing environmental impacts

The potential environmental impacts forecast for the development have been

divided into two categories: impacts during construction and irreversible

modifications. The impacts are then presented together with mitigation

measures identified to minimize them (Table 9).

F.2 Impacts during construction

Any development work involving excavation or dredging works will have major

impacts on reef, lagoon and coastal hydrodynamics. The Impacts of excavation


54

can range from smothering of live coral to kill of live coral. Coastal

modification involved in the construction of the harbour can have short to long

term impacts.

F.2.1 Schedule, logistics and loading and unloading construction

materials

Since the contract is not awarded at the moment, method of downloading

materials or logistics is not known to the consultant. Therefore possible

methods were taken into account and impacts relating to are discussed. There

are three possible routes for bringing the construction materials to the site. 1)

via ferry harbour using heavy cargo vessels, 2) commercial harbour and 3)

Maritime Survival Training Centres harbour after the dredging works are

completed. The excavators, trucks and bulldozers can be brought to the site

on barges and unloaded at the jetty like structure (reclaimed) at the project

area.

Increased activities of larger vessels (like heavy cargo dhonis) to supply the

construction materials (cement) will also have direct and indirect impact

through:

• Accidental spillage of construction materials (cement bags, timber,

sheet piles etc)

• Accidental oil spills

• Accidental spillage of amour rocks (this is very unlikely, since these

rocks are very heavy).

• Wake of the propellers might break few fragile corals observed at the

side of the existing harbour.

• Solid waste from the transport vessels (plastic bags, tins, cans)

After the reclamation works has been completed the materials for the sheet

piling and classroom facility can be stored at make shift sheds on the

reclaimed land. Since the class room facility will be located at the southeast

corner of the allocated land, the western side will be empty. So this area can

be used for storing and in the event temporary accommodation is needed, one

or two accommodation sheds (temporary).


55

F.2.2 Construction materials and solid waste

Transportation of construction materials such as cement, timber, plywood and

fuel for excavators and trucks to the site has the potential to aesthetically

damage the marine environment especially the lagoon areas due to accidental

spillage. Quite often construction waste finds their way into the marine

environment during the course of their disposal unless necessary measures

are taken to avoid this from happening.

Pollution of the lagoon and reef system can be caused by waterborne and

windblown debris escaping from the construction site or from transportation

vessels such as large cargo dhonis. Waste and residue arising from

construction activities such as oil spills and other waste (used wooden moulds)

may affect the marine environment.

Construction related solid waste impacts are possible at the classroom facility,

davits and platform tower construction stages. During the dredging and

reclamation work stage, solid waste problem will be minor. Since only barges,

and heavy machinery will be used.

Table 8 Type and source of potential solid waste generated during construction stage Type of waste Source

Plastic bottles, empty engine oil bottles,

chemical bottles (concrete mixing)

Generator set operation (if it is used),

from transport vessels (during material

download, if material brought to site on

vessels)

Wooden crates, saw dust, packing

material, card board boxes, metal plates,

gypsum board, shingles, wooden frame

work, re-enforced metal bars, masonry

waste (cement, concrete)

During construction work of class room

facility, davits, towers (shingles and

wooden frame work can be reused)

Hazardous waste, batteries, lube oil,

empty paint/sealing/staining tins and

chemicals (concrete mixing)

During reclamation works, construction

of class room facility, batteries and

engine oil used in machinery, equipment

Amour rocks and filter stones (can be

categorized as solid waste if accidentally

spilled or dumped on the reef area) ,

damaged paving blocks

During break water construction

(accidental spillage from the barge) and

paving work


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Figure 23 Waste dumped at the project area, semi industrial work related solid waste

F.2.3 Impacts due to construction methods

Since using excavators is the most economic method for the dredging and

reclamation work of the projects, impacts due to use of this machinery will be

discussed. Using excavators for the dredging and reclamation works,

sedimentation is inevitable and this is an impact that will be unavoidable. An

option to reduce sedimentation is building a sand bund wall initially, but even

with this option sedimentation is inevitable. Although it is unavoidable the

impacts will be short termed. The strong currents (influenced by tide)

experienced at the channels and reef system will ensure dispersal or removal

of fine sediment from the area. Since live coral cover is very low at the

immediate and indirect impact areas (southern and northern side) impacts due

to sedimentation will be minor. The presence of turf algae at the immediate

project area and indirect impact area may cause trapping of fine sediment,

which would kill the algae. Presence of fine layer of sediment may hinder coral

recruitment.

Major environmental concerns associated with dredging and reclamation works

are direct habitat loss, sedimentation and deterioration in water quality. High

levels of sedimentation and silt from dredging activities is a major source of

reef degradation. The consequences of excessive sedimentation on corals are

well known and include:

- direct physical impacts like smothering of corals and other benthic reef

organisms,


57

- reduced light penetration, which has a direct effect on zooxanthellae

photosynthesis and thus the net productivity of corals. It also reduces

coral growth, calcification rates and reproduction,

- dredged silt may form false bottoms, characterised by shifting unstable

sediments,

- silt suspension may increase nutrient release, leading to eutrophic

blooms,

- silt may act as sink or trap for many pollutants, which are absorbed

onto the sediments.

Construction of breakwater near the edge of reef flat will direct physical

impacts of the reef habitat. These impacts include loss of habitat, mortality of

immobile or slow moving organisms (clams, coral) and smothering.

Construction of the breakwater also may have impacts on the hydrodynamics

by acting as an obstruction. Considering possibility of dead spots within the

harbour basin (normally due to inefficient flushing), tidal flux alone will be

enough for sufficient flushing due to the small size of the harbour basin.

F.2.4 Impact on vegetation

Since majority of land required for the project will be reclaimed from the

lagoon, no impacts are envisaged on the vegetation. The area has been

already reclaimed partly, and the shoreline vegetation is approximately 50-

60m away from the project location.

F.2.5 Impact on groundwater

The project site will be on reclaimed land at the shore, no impacts are

envisaged to groundwater. Part of the project area is already in reclaimed

land; therefore original shoreline of the island lies beyond the boundaries of

the project area. Over the years part of the water lens may have developed

over the area (which is very unlikely, because the existing reclaimed area is

protruding in to the lagoon). Groundwater should not be used for any

construction purpose at the project site. Desalinated waster should be used for

all purposes. This will further ensure that there will be no impact on ground

water. Since the class room facility will be a single storey building, dewatering

is not required.


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F.2.6 Coastal structures

The impact of new physical structures such as breakwaters, access channels

and harbours on the hydrodynamic regime, can be quite significant and often

permanent. It can interfere with littoral sediment transport patterns and

seasonal coastal dynamics resulting in a number of impacts. These include:

• Change of near shore hydrodynamic (currents and wave patterns)

• Erosion at the energy relief areas (beach in between proposed Maritime

Survival Training Centres edge and commercial harbour, north western

or south western side) during either monsoon

• Sedimentation or increased turbidity due to movement of sediment

around the structure (harbour walls or protection walls), which in turn

reduces light penetration, which has a direct effect on zooxanthellae

photosynthesis and thus the net productivity of corals

• Alteration of substrate topography, hydrodynamic regime and the

continual re-suspension of dredged sediments can result in increasing

sedimentation and forming dredge silts

• Degradation of seawater quality due to suspended sediments.

F.2.7 Cumulative impacts

The dredged material generated by the dredging works will be used as filling

for the reclamation component of the project. Since the harbour and western

side area facing the channel will be sheet piled, sedimentation impacts will be

short termed. But the southern side facing the vessel repair yard will not be

sheet piled. After completion of the works, the vessel repair yard will be

somewhat enclosed (breakwater at the western side and reclamation edge at

the northern side), thereby restricting the flow of sediment fines out of the

area. This area is likely to be filled at a later stage as required by MHUD.

Therefore some level of sedimentation may happen due to this.

Littoral movement impacts due to the project will be limited to the short beach

stretch at the northern side of project site, in between the proposed

reclamation area and commercial harbour. This sand would only move side to

side during the transition of monsoons (southern side during NE monsoon and

northern side during SW monsoon). Beach impact on other areas of Villingili


59

due to this project will be minor or none, since both sides of the proposed

project area is obstructed by coastal modifications (revetment wall,

reclamation and seawall at the southern side and commercial harbour at the

northern side).

Impact on live coral is inevitable, and will be a cumulative impact, due to the

already severe conditions observed at Villinigili reef. Comparatively these

impacts (e.g. sedimentation related impacts), the impact from raw sewage

disposal at the southern side will be more direct and indirect impact on the

reef habitat at Villingili. Since strong currents are experienced at Vaadhoo

channnel, contaminants may reach other areas. However impacts of sewage

on the marine environment are not well documented in the Maldives.

F.2.8 Social impacts, noise and air pollution

Operation of heavy machinery and construction related equipment will

contribute to noise pollution. Noise pollution during the dredging works will be

mainly due to the operation of excavator, cranes, and trucks. Construction

noise at Villingili will be dictated by the predominant wind direction. As the

since the bid isn’t awarded to a contractor, exact timeline of activities is

unknown. There noise pollution during both seasons is discussed. During the

north east monsoon, predominant wind direction is from north or north east,

therefore noise will levels will be lower on the residential area. During the

south west monsoon, predominant wind directs are west or south west;

therefore noise reaching the residential areas. But since the reclamation is

estimated to be finished within 2-3 months of initiation, noise related impacts

will be short termed.

If the construction material is downloaded and brought from the commercial

harbour at the north west of Villingili, public transport and safety issue may

arise. Since this activity will not go on through out the project duration, social

impacts due to transportation of materials will be minor and short termed. In

the event the constructed harbour basin of the proposed project is utilized,

above mentioned social impacts will not be an issue.

Air pollution due to the project will be mainly due to operation of heavy

machinery like excavator, cranes, trucks and boats (tug boats, cargo vessels).


60

But in since use of heavy machinery will be limited to a short period of time;

impacts are envisaged to be minor.

F.3 Operational Impacts

Environmental impacts associated from the operational phase of the current

proposed development project are limited to a relatively few activities. These

activities can cause short term to long term impacts on the reef environment.

Below are some of the possible impacts:

- degradation of sea water quality from possible alteration of littoral

sediment transport regime causing turbidity (sediment leaching from

the sides at the vessel repair yard side)

- possible impacts due to accidental spillage of oil (by vessels using the

harbour)

- following construction, the proposed development may influence

existing hydrodynamic patterns affecting water circulation and possibly

leading to “dead spot” in the inner harbour areas where floating litter

and other pollutants could accumulate (since it is small volume of water,

sufficient flushing will be attained during tidal fluxes)

- accidental spillage of waste (vessels using the harbour)

F.3.1 Social impacts

Only positive impacts are envisaged in the operational phase in terms of

increased employment opportunities and capacity building. Having a centre

especially designed to cater training needs for seafarers will increase

employment opportunities in foreign vessels for Maldivians. Since enforcement

of STCW Convention of IMO, all seafarers must have IMO acceptable level of

certifications. No adverse impacts are envisaged during the operation of the

facility.


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F.4 Mitigation Plan

There are a number of actions that can be taken to minimize the identified

impacts. Those that are explored below emerged out of the discussions and

consultations during this EIA and from the past experience of the consultant.

Mitigation measures are selected to reduce or eliminate the severity of any

predicted adverse environmental effects and improve the overall

environmental performance and acceptability of the project.

In considering the mitigation measures it has to be noted that the western

side reef of Villingili (especially North West and West central area) is

significantly impacted due development activities carried out over the years.

The mitigation measures formulated below may not have an observable

change or improvement to the reef environment. Mis-management of near

shore fishery or shore fishery and industrial work (fish processing) have

significantly degraded the reef environment, and major work has to be done to

control or regulate and monitor these development or industrial activities.


62

Table 9 Potential impacts during construction and operation of the development project and possible mitigation measures identified to minimize the impacts

Possible Impacts Mitigation measures Location Time frame (Phase)

Impact intensity

Institutional responsibility

Cost (USD)

Littering, accidental disposal and spillage of any construction wastes should be avoided by pre-planning ways of their transportation and disposal. Careful planning of the work activities can also reduce the amount of waste generated.

Reef flat, lagoon and land

During construction

Minor to moderate, short term impact

MCHE, Contractor N/A Littering on marine environment

During construction of protection walls and break waters, all construction related waste collected and disposed at Villingili waste management area or at Thilafushi

Lagoon, reef flat During construction

Minor MCHE, Contractor, N/A, should be included in the contract of work

Alteration to localized hydrodynamic regime

- Negligible due to the project. Major coastal modifications have been part of the existing coastline which is protected with seawalls.

Reef slope, reef flat

During construction

Minor, short to long term, already significant alterations are made at the northern and southern side of the project area.

N/A

Damage to reef by loading and unloading works

Awareness raising of project managers on environmentally friendly practices to minimize negative impacts. Including a clause stating proper handling during

Reef flat and reef slope lagoon

During construction

Minor, short term impact

MCHE, Contractor N/A


63

loading or unloading works

Careful planning to reduce time of the unloading process

Lagoon During construction

Minor MCHE, Contractor N/A

Creation of a sand bund to reduce the sedimentation impact (an option, but it is likely that in a small scale project as the one proposed here, impact from creating a sand bund will also have equaling amount of sedimentation)

Reef flat reef slope lagoon

During construction (3 months)

Major, short term impact (since after completion of reclamation, the edges will be sheet piled)

MCHE, Contractor May increase the number of days thereby increasing reclamation cost USD 1500-2000

Sedimentation and siltation on the reef and lagoon due to excavation works

Dredging works of the harbour basin and clearance work at the entrance will be carried out during the low tide)

Reef flat and lagoon areas

During construction phase (3 months)

Moderate, short term. The currents at the area are relative strong allowing maximum flushing

MCHE, Contractor May increase the number of days thereby increasing reclamation cost USD 1500-2000, depend on the contractor

Loss of habitat, damage or death of coral at the entrance area, protection wall area

Stakes put at the corners of the harbour dredging area so the excavator operator can identify the perimeter of the harbour basin, thereby avoiding unnecessary loss of or trampling of live coral. Since no live coral is observed at the area there will be no impact on coral, fish being mobile fish would move away from

Reef flat, lagoon

During construction phase (3 months)

Major, short term, may have a positive impact on long term by creating additional substrate for coral growth

MCHE, Contractor N / A , should be included in the initial costs


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impact zone

If possible coral transplantation to another location (only very few live coral are observed, mostly massive or encrusting forms therefore may have difficulty in transplanting)

Reef flat, lagoon


N/A MCHE, Contractor Assigning a supervisor or hiring consultants to manage or monitor (USD 500-600 per month)

Excavation works will be carried out during low tide to minimize sedimentation around the existing entrance area

Reef flat, lagoon


Major, short term. Since the tidal currents and swell induced currents are strong sediment plume will be directed away from the reef

Contractor May increase the number of days thereby increasing reclamation cost USD 1500-2000

Air pollution Completing the excavation works as soon as possible.

Air Construction phase (3 months)

Minor/short termed

Contractor N/A


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Noise pollution Completing the excavation works as soon as possible, avoid work at night

land Construction phase (3 months)

Minor/short term

Contractor N/A

Public safety (social impact)

Construct a fence restricting access to project area

Land Construction phase (6 months)

Short termed Contractor USD 1500-2000 should be included in the initial cost

Alteration to the local hydrodynamics, currents

none (direct impact from the proposed project is insignificant compared to large scale modifications already made to Villingili coastline)

beach, lagoon Operational phase

minor N/A

Solid waste Employee a staff for monitoring and cleaning the harbour

Harbour Operational Phase

Minor, long term


equivalent to government employees

Accidental spillage (oils, materials)

Put up sign boards advising good practices

Harbour Operational phase

Minor, long term


USD 30-40


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F.5 Uncertainties involved in identifying impacts

In spite of the measures that will be taken to mitigate against the foreseeable

impacts, there is always the possibility of impacts the were not foreseen, or

the extent of predicted impact can turn out to be greater than predicted, or

the mitigatory measures may not be as effective as expected. In order to

ensure that such incremental impacts do not suddenly appear without

warning, the project will monitor key parameters in the vicinity of the

development which can serve as environmental indicators (given in section I.

Monitoring program). The area (project area, direct impact area and indirect

impact area) has been surveyed and a baseline and reference plots have been

established at key locations on the reef and lagoon. These areas will be

monitored (during the monitoring program) regularly to provide an indication

of impacts before they become too advanced for corrective action

Since the project has not been awarded to a contractor yet, the method that

has been discussed in this report may not be used, instead a different method

for example use of a dredger or cutter suction pump might be used. In that

case the impacts by those would be different. But considering these it is very

unlikely that a contractor would use a dredger or a cutter suction pump since

it is very costly and economically not feasible for small projects.

G. ALTERNATIVES

G.1 Project location

The land allocated for the Maritime Survival Training Centre was decided by

the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development. Other locations were

requested by the Maldives College of Higher Education, including other sites at

Villingili and Hulhumale. According to Maldives College of Higher Education the

current allocated land isn’t the most ideal location but due scarcity and

availability of land they had to do with the allocated land.

In terms environmental impacts or social impacts constructing the Survival

Training Centre at Hulhumale or other location at Villingili would be the same.


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Both locations have undergone significant coastal modifications by

development activities. Villingili over the years, with the development activities

and increased population, have significantly damaged the reef environment.

Severe anthropogenic impacts are observed at the reef flat and slope areas.

Major impacts at Hulhumale reef area is due to sediment related impacts due

large scale reclamation works.

Therefore considering the fact that land is scarce and the kind of location

needed for the project (access to sea and requires a pool or harbour) is

difficult to attain, the proposed location is appropriate. Considering

environmental impacts, it is better to have this kind of project at Villingili than

at some place else where such significant impacts and degradation is not

observed.

Also it has to be noted that the project proponent can only suggest locations

where this kind of facility could be built (considering the requirements of the

project) to the government agency mandated to formulating land use plans

and allocating land.

G.2 Dredging and reclamation method

Since the project has not been awarded to a contractor at the time of report

compilation, the consultants made assumptions on what type of excavation or

dredging method would be used in projects of this nature. Since the dredging

works involved in the proposed project is minor, using excavators would be

the most economically feasible method. Using excavators for the dredging and

reclamation works can have significant impacts on the reef environment by

sedimentation impacts.

One alternative to minimise this impact is to employ a cutter-suction dredge

which reduces the amount of silt suspended in the water column. It will also

eliminate the need for blasting should hard substrate be encountered (at the

entrance area). But unfortunately, the use of cutter-suction dredges for the

small quantity of dredging involved in the proposed project is not economical

due to the high costs of mobilization and operation.


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Dredging and reclamation can also be done using a dredger. In using the

dredger, similar impacts as excavators are possible but to a lesser extent. But

similar to the option of using cutter suction pump, high cost of mobilization

and operation is a problem in small scale projects such as the reclamation and

dredging under the proposed project.

An alternative to reclamation method is to utilize the dredged material stored

at the southern side of Villingili. But since the project needs a harbour

regardless of method of reclamation or attaining fill material, sufficient amount

of dredged material will be generated. In considering this option, method of

disposing the dredged material from harbour basin excavation has to be

decided. It could be used to reclaim the abandoned vessel repair yard. But this

aspect is beyond the scope of this EIA.

G.3 The no project scenario

If considering the no project scenario, the significant environmental impacts

due to sedimentation and suspension of fine silt in the water column can be

avoided. Indirect impacts include degradation of water quality, damage to live

coral and slower rate of coral growth. Direct impacts which are irreversible

(dredging of harbour basin and clearance of entrance) can have significant

impacts on the fauna observed at the area.

But considering this alternative (no project scenario), the reef system of

Villingili has no significant features so as to label the reef an important site.

The reef is not used by any of the safari boats or resorts as a dive site. The

live coral and reef fish diversity is low. The reef is already damaged and

degraded at some areas to alarming levels (figure 20). Coastal modifications

and developments at the Villingili have significantly altered the littoral regime

and reef condition (figure 20 and Annex 4). Therefore construction of harbour

here would have less impact compared to a harbour in Ga, Gdh or Addu atoll

(areas where live coral cover is highest in the Maldives after the 1998 mass

coral bleaching event).


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H. PUBLIC CONSULTATION

The decision to site the maritime training centre is a policy decision to meet

future training requirements by the Centre for Maritime Studies, currently a

Faculty of Maldives College for Higher Education. This is partly in compliance

with IMO Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watch

Keeping of Seafarers of which Maldives is party to since 1978 and also to meet

the maritime related training service by CMS. Based on this decision the land

required for the proposed development was allocated by the Ministry of

Housing and Urban Development, the national authority for land use planning,

in consultation with Malé Municipality and Vilingili office. Therefore all the

relevant government agencies are involved in the site selection and allocation

procedure.

Although the draft EIA guideline of MEEW requires public consultation and

information disclosure to consider their concerns issues prior to the approval of

a specific project this consultation process is rarely practiced. Instances where

public consultation are taken as part of a decision making process for major

development projects, their concerns and aspirations are often redundant as

the development sites are predetermined and alternatives sites are almost

never considered.

Although the project site has been already allocated, and the scale of the

project is relatively small the aspiration of the community in the vicinity of the

project site has been taken into consideration in this EIA process. Several

individuals from the households on the vicinity were asked of their expectation

and concerns with construction and operation of the facility; none showed a

major objection locating such a facility in the neighbourhood especially with

respect to noise and aesthetics (blocking the sea view). However, one

household people complained because they use near-shore disposed fish

waste, where part of the training centre would be located.

Waste generation was not seen a problem as a designated waste disposal

facility is located on the island. This site is managed by waste section of

Ministry of Construction and Public works.


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These concerns and other points of view of the community and the

environmental issues associated with the project and its components have

formed the basis of this EIA, supplemented by the consultants’ observations

and knowledge on the environmental issues in the Maldives.

Public consultation would be made as part of the public information and

disclosure process as required by MEEW. As soon as the report is approved by

MCHE and MEEW, it would be available at least for perusal, to those who

request it.

The report would be published in MCHE website: www.mche.edu.mv

It would also be made available at MEEW website: www.environment.gov.mv


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I. MONITORING PROGRAM Monitoring of the environment is essential to ensure that potential impacts are

minimized and to mitigate unanticipated impacts. The following table provides

the methods and indicators that will be used and the frequency of sampling of

the marine environment (Table 10). Indicators used will be percentage of live

coral cover and fish diversity and abundance. Data from the photo quadrates

will be used as baseline data to carry out monitoring to assess whether

previous levels of indicators had increased or decreased.

Table 10 Monitoring plan for the development project at Villingili reef system.

Reef community Methodology Sampling

frequency

Estimated cost

for monitoring

coral and other

benthic cover

LIT Twice( during

and after

completion of

project)

Rate per field

survey USD 500.00

Reef fish

community, diversity

and abundance

Fish visual Census Twice( during

and after

completion of

project)

Rate per field

survey USD 500.00

Coral recruitment,

growth rates and

mortality

Quadrate method

including photo-

quadrate

methodology

Twice( during

and after

completion of

project)

Rate per field

survey USD 500.00

Sedimentation rates Quantitative

assessment of

sediment loading on

the reef benthos

sediment traps

deployed at the

predetermined

locations

Every two month Rate per field

survey USD 200.00

Sea water quality Water samples sent

to Food and drug

authority for

analysis. Following

parameters are to be

tested; salinity, pH,

Electrical

Twice( during

and after

completion of

project)

Rate per test set

USD 100.00


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conductivity,

dissolved oxygen,

Nitrite, Nitrate,

Phosphate,

Sulphates, total

coliforms and faecal

coliforms.

* Show line and beach monitoring is not included in the monitoring program since

impact to the small beach strip observed north of the proposed reclamation area will

be minor or none.


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J. REFERENCES

Allison, W.R., (1996) ‘Methods for surveying coral reef benthos’. Prepared for

IMS, Zanzibar, 18 pp.

An assessment of Maldivian coral reefs and bait fish populations from the

Indian Ocean tsunami (Unpublished) (2005), Prepared by the Australian

government and Marine Research Center: 7-23.

DHI (1999). Physical modelling on Navigation conditions and wave

disturbance Maaneru site. Danish Hydraulic Institute.

Shore Protection Manual, (1994) US Government Printing Office, Washington,

DC.

Aslam, M. (2004). Reef Flat and Shallow Passage Hydrodynamics: Addu Atoll

Maldives. MSc. Thesis, University of Auckland, New Zealand.

English, S., Wilkinson, C. and Baker, V. (1997). Survey Manual for Tropical

Marine Resources. Australian Institute of Marine Science, Townsville, Australia.

390pp.

JICA (1992). The development study on the seawall construction project for

Male Island in the Republic of Maldives.

Kench, P. S .and Brander, R. (2005). Sensitivity of reef islands to seasonal

climate oscillations: South Maalhosmadulu atoll, Maldives. Submitted to Coral

Reefs.

Masselink, G., (1998). Field investigation of wave propagation over a bar and

the consequent generation of secondary waves. Coastal Eng. 33, 1 – 9.

Kench, P.S. and McLean, F.R. (2004). Hydrodynamics and sediment transport

fluxes of functional Hoa in an Indian Ocean Atoll. School of Geography and

Environmental Science, The University of Auckland, New Zealand.

Loya, Y. (1978). A Plotless and transect methods. In: Stoddart, D.R. and R.F.

Johannes (eds). Coral Reefs: research methods. UNESCO, Paris: pp197-217.


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Ministry of Construction and Public Works. (1999). Environmental/Technical

Study for Dredging/Reclamation Works Under the Hulhumale Project, Maldives

– Draft Final Stage 1 Report.

Naseer, A. and Bruce, G. H. (2004). Inventory of the Maldives coral reefs

using morphometrics generated from Landsat ETM+ imagery. Coral Reefs.

Ohlhorst SL; Liddle WD; Taylor RJ and Taylor JM. (1988). Evaluation of reef

census techniques. Proceedings of 6th International Coral reef Symposium.

Australia. 2: 319-324

Segal, B. and Castro, C.B. (2001). A Proposed Method for Coral Cover

Assessment: A case study in Abrolhos, Brazil. Bulletin of Marine Science 69

(2): 487-496.

Woodroffe, C.D. (1992). Morphology and evolution of reef islands in the

Maldives. Proc 7th Int Coral Reef Symp. 2: 1217 – 1226.

Young, I.R. 1999. Seasonal variability of the global ocean wind and wave

climate. International Journal of Climatology, 19: 931-950.

Kuiter R. H. (1998). Photo guide to Fishes of the Maldives

Coleman, Neville (2000). Marine Life of Maldives.

Veron, JEN (John Edward Norwood) (2000). Corals of the World


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K. ANNEXES

K.1 Scope of work approved by MEEW (TOR)


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K.2 Scaled drawing set


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K.3 Landuse plan

SEVENTH FLOOR, MTCC TOWER, MALE' 20-02 REPUBLIC OF MALDIVES TEL: 337717, 321960 FAX: 328999 e-mail :- [email protected]


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K.4 Photo plates

Existing entrance channel area to the vessel repair yard, part of this area will be used as entrance area to the harbour of the proposed project

General condition of the proposed reclamation area

Harbour basin of the vessel repair yard, now filled with waste and few sunken vessels

Out of the break water constructed to protect the vessel repair yard harbour area

General reef condition at the northern side of the project area near the commercial harbour

Few colonies of Pocillopora was observed growing on the tumbled down rocks of the breakwater

Fish waste dumped near the fish processing area at the western reef /lagoon of Villingili

Fish waste dumped near the fish processing area at the western reef /lagoon of Villingili

Gross mis-management of shore based fishery at Villingili. The approximately 300m area to a depth of 20-25m covered in dense entangled fishing lines

A tree bracnh entangled with fishing line, the very few live coral at area was also entangled in fishing line


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K.5 Letter to Ministry of Environment, Energy and

Water

Documents

Maldives Maritime Center's_Maritime survival training_centre_eia_final