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Land and Marine Environmental

October 2011

Resources Group Pvt Ltd, Maldives

Environmental Impact AssessmentReport for Resort Development at Kudavillingili,Kaafu Atoll

Kudavillingili Development Pvt Ltd

Declaration of the Consultant I certify that statements made in this Environment Impact Assessment report are true, complete and correct. Name: Hussein Zahir Consultant Registration Number: 04-07

Signature: Company Name: Land and Marine Environment Resources Group Pvt Ltd Date: 05 October 2011

EIA report for Resort Development at K. Kudavillingili Page 3

Table of contents

1 Non technical Summary ....................................................................................................................................... 13

1.1 Background ................................................................................................................................................ 13

1.2 Project Detail .............................................................................................................................................. 13

1.3 Key impacts, mitigation measures and alternatives .................................................................................. 15

1.3.1 Key impacts ............................................................................................................................................ 15

1.3.2 Mitigation measures .............................................................................................................................. 16

1.3.3 Alternatives ............................................................................................................................................ 17

2 Introduction ......................................................................................................................................................... 18

2.1 Purpose of the report and need for the EIA ............................................................................................... 18

2.2 Procedure of the EIA and Terms of Reference (ToR) ................................................................................. 18

3 Project Setting ..................................................................................................................................................... 20

3.1 Maldives Tourism Act (Law No. 2/99) ........................................................................................................ 20

3.1.1 Regulations under Maldives Tourism Act .............................................................................................. 21

3.2 Some Laws and Regulations that Tourists should be made Aware of ....................................................... 22

3.3 Environment Protection and Preservation Act of Maldives ....................................................................... 23

3.3.1 Protected Areas and Sensitive Areas ..................................................................................................... 24

3.4 Third National Environmental Action Plan (2009-2013) ............................................................................ 24

3.5 National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan .......................................................................................... 26

3.6 Fisheries Regulation of the Maldives ......................................................................................................... 27

3.7 Regulation on Sand and Coral Mining ........................................................................................................ 27

3.8 By-law on Cutting down, uprooting, digging out and export of trees and palms from one island to another 28

3.9 International Treaties and Conventions ..................................................................................................... 29

3.9.1 Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer ......................................................... 29

3.10 Circulars by MHE regarding the Montreal Protocol ................................................................................... 29

3.11 Guidelines for land Use Planning ............................................................................................................... 30


4 Methodology ....................................................................................................................................................... 31

4.1 Physical surveys .......................................................................................................................................... 31

4.2 Marine Survey ............................................................................................................................................ 33

4.3 Water quality analysis ................................................................................................................................ 35

4.4 Terrestrial vegetation survey ..................................................................................................................... 35

5 Project Description .............................................................................................................................................. 36

5.1 Project Proponent ...................................................................................................................................... 36

5.2 The Project ................................................................................................................................................. 36

5.3 Need for the Project ................................................................................................................................... 36

5.4 Location and Extent of Site Boundaries ..................................................................................................... 37

5.5 Construction phase and schedule for implementation .............................................................................. 37

5.5.1 Mobilization ........................................................................................................................................... 38

5.5.2 Reclmation works .................................................................................................................................. 38

5.5.3 Beach nourishment and construction of groynes .................................................................................. 39

5.5.4 back-of-house and other service facilities ............................................................................................. 39

5.5.5 front-of-house and guest facilities ......................................................................................................... 39

5.5.6 Construction of resort infrastructure (sewer, water and power grids), landscaping and final finishes 39

5.6 Major Inputs and Outputs .......................................................................................................................... 40

5.6.1 Inputs (description of the project in terms of raw materials, processes, equipment and work force) . 40

5.6.2 Outputs (development concept and built environment) ...................................................................... 48

5.7 Measures adopted to promote sustainable development ........................................................................ 55

5.8 Environment Management Plan (EMP) Structure and Responsibilities ..................................................... 55

5.9 Environmental Management Plan ............................................................................................................. 57

5.9.1 Beach profile surveys ............................................................................................................................. 57

5.9.2 Solid Waste ............................................................................................................................................ 58

5.9.3 Fuels and Other Hazardous Chemicals .................................................................................................. 59

5.9.4 Reef Environment .................................................................................................................................. 61


5.9.5 Annual Report Structure ........................................................................................................................ 63

5.10 Risks associated with the project ............................................................................................................... 64

6 Existing environment ........................................................................................................................................... 65

6.1 General setting ........................................................................................................................................... 65

6.2 Geographic location and general setting of K. Kudavillingili ...................................................................... 66

6.3 Climatology and oceanography .................................................................................................................. 67

6.3.1 Wind climate .......................................................................................................................................... 67

6.3.2 Rainfall Characteristics ........................................................................................................................... 71

6.3.3 Tide ........................................................................................................................................................ 71

6.3.4 Wave ...................................................................................................................................................... 75

6.3.5 CURRENT ................................................................................................................................................ 78

6.3.6 Beach environment ................................................................................................................................ 82

6.4 Marine surveys ........................................................................................................................................... 86

6.4.1 Reef survey ............................................................................................................................................ 86

6.4.2 Fish community ...................................................................................................................................... 94

6.4.3 Seawater quality .................................................................................................................................... 97

6.5 Terrestrial Environment ........................................................................................................................... 100

6.5.1 Flora ..................................................................................................................................................... 100

6.5.2 Groundwater ....................................................................................................................................... 101

6.6 Social environment .................................................................................................................................. 103

6.7 Hazard Vulnerability, Area vulnerable to flooding and storm surge ........................................................ 104

7 Public consultation ............................................................................................................................................ 108

7.1 Thulusdhoo ISLAND council ..................................................................................................................... 108

7.2 Government agencies .............................................................................................................................. 108

8 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS ............................................................................................................................... 109

8.1 Impact Identification ................................................................................................................................ 109

8.2 Limitation or uncertainty of impact prediction ........................................................................................ 110


8.3 Constructional Impacts ............................................................................................................................ 110

8.3.1 Coastal Structures ................................................................................................................................ 111

8.3.2 Construction materials and waste ....................................................................................................... 111

8.3.3 Mobilization of Equipment and Labour ............................................................................................... 112

8.3.4 Vegetation clearance and impacts on terrestrial fauna ...................................................................... 112

8.3.5 Effects on Groundwater Quality .......................................................................................................... 112

8.3.6 Seawater quality and Sedimentation impacts ..................................................................................... 113

8.3.7 Air and noise pollution ......................................................................................................................... 114

8.3.8 Social impacts ...................................................................................................................................... 114

8.4 Operational Impacts ................................................................................................................................. 115

8.4.1 Sewage and Wastewater Disposal ....................................................................................................... 115

8.4.2 Waste Disposal .................................................................................................................................... 115

8.4.3 Power Generation ................................................................................................................................ 117

8.4.4 Water production and brine disposal .................................................................................................. 119

8.4.5 Fertilizers and pesticides ..................................................................................................................... 119

8.4.6 Diving and Snorkelling and other marine recreational activities ......................................................... 119

8.4.7 Possible erosion at the newly created beache at the northern side ................................................... 120

9 Alternatives ........................................................................................................................................................ 121

9.1 Considered alternatives ........................................................................................................................... 121

9.1.1 Construction of over water structures ................................................................................................ 121

9.1.2 location of over water structures ........................................................................................................ 121

9.1.3 Sewage treatment method .................................................................................................................. 122

9.1.4 Feed water intake, outfall and brine discharge pipe location ............................................................. 122

9.1.5 Method of beach creation and beach filling works ............................................................................. 123

9.1.6 Method of dredgding ........................................................................................................................... 123

9.1.7 Location of burrow area ...................................................................................................................... 124

9.1.8 The no-project scenario ....................................................................................................................... 124


9.2 Selected alternatives ................................................................................................................................ 125

9.2.1 Selected method of Construction of over water structures ................................................................ 125

9.2.2 selected location of over water structures .......................................................................................... 125

9.2.3 Selected Sewage treatment method ................................................................................................... 126

9.2.4 Selected location and method of Feed water intake, outfall and brine discharge pipe ...................... 126

9.2.5 Selected Method of beach creation and beach filling works ............................................................... 127

9.2.6 Selected Method of dredging .............................................................................................................. 128

9.2.7 Locaton of burrow area ....................................................................................................................... 128

10 Mitigation Plan ............................................................................................................................................. 130

10.1 Solid waste management plan ................................................................................................................. 140

10.1.1 Domestic waste ............................................................................................................................... 141

10.1.2 Kitchen waste .................................................................................................................................. 141

10.1.3 Green waste .................................................................................................................................... 142

10.1.4 Hazardous waste ............................................................................................................................. 143

10.1.5 Waste disposal plan ......................................................................................................................... 144

10.2 Sewage and waste water management plan ........................................................................................... 146

10.2.1 Sewage and waste water treatment method .................................................................................. 146

10.2.2 Sludge use ....................................................................................................................................... 146

10.2.3 Reusing recycled water ................................................................................................................... 146

10.2.4 Emergency sewage outfall ............................................................................................................... 147

10.3 Methods of Power generation and measures taken to conserve energy ................................................ 147

10.3.1 Power generation methods ............................................................................................................. 147

10.3.2 Energy conservation measures ....................................................................................................... 148

10.4 Methods of water generation and measures taken to conserve and manage water .............................. 150

10.4.1 Method of water generation ........................................................................................................... 150

10.4.2 Ground water .................................................................................................................................. 150

10.4.3 Water storage .................................................................................................................................. 150


10.4.4 Water management and conservation measures ........................................................................... 150

12 CONCLUSION ................................................................................................................................................ 156

Appendices

Appendix 1 Terms of Reference (ToR) ........................................................................................................ 160

Appendix 2 Site Plan .......................................................................................................................................... 161

Appendix 3 Construction schedule ............................................................................................................... 162

Appendix 4 STP schematic diagram............................................................................................................. 163

Appendix 5 Tree survey .................................................................................................................................... 164

Appendix 6 List of stakeholders .................................................................................................................... 165

Appendix 7 Commitment letter ..................................................................................................................... 166

List of Tables

Table 1 GPS coordinates of beach profiles and wave gauges location ........................................................................ 32

Table 2 GPS coordinates of the survey and sampling sites ......................................................................................... 34

Table 3 GPS coordinates of sampling sites for groundwater ....................................................................................... 35

Table 4 Inputs for the for the construction and operational phase of Kudavillingili development project ................ 45

Table 5 Key structures of the Kudavillingili development project ............................................................................... 49

Table 6 Designed intake parameters for the SBR system ............................................................................................ 51

Table 7 Characteristic of treatment product ............................................................................................................... 51

Table 8 Technical specifications of the reverse osmosis desalination plant ............................................................... 52

Table 10 Type and sources of solid waste ................................................................................................................... 54

Table 11 The four seasons experienced in the Maldives ............................................................................................. 68

Table 12 Principle tidal constituents (Defant 1961). ................................................................................................... 72


Table 13 Classification of the tides .............................................................................................................................. 73

Table 14 Amplitudes of the tidal constituents determined by harmonic analysis of the tide .................................... 73

Table 15 Wave characteristics for a sample of 20 bursts. ........................................................................................... 76

Table 16 Results of the fish census survey carried out at sites R1, R2, R4, R5, R6 and R7. ......................................... 95

Table 17 Seawater quality parameters tested and their results at the sampling locations at K. Kudavillingili. Data analysis was carried out by the National Health Laboratory, Maldives Food and Drug Authority. tna=test not available when the samples were submitted to NHL for analysis ............................................................................... 98

Table 18 In-situ water testing carried out using Hanna multi probe water test kit at site W1 ................................... 99



Table 21 Summary of tree survey carried out at Kudavillingili (only mature, significant trees were recorded as part of the tree survey) ..................................................................................................................................................... 101

Table 22 Results of the parameters tested to assess groundwater quality at the sampling locations at K. Kudavillingili. Data analysis was carried out by the National Health Laboratory, Maldives Food and Drug Authority. tna=test not available when the samples were submitted to NHL for analysis ........................................................ 102

Table 23 In-situ water testing carried out using Hanna multi probe water test kit at site G1 .................................. 102

Table 24 In-situ water testing carried out using Hanna multi probe water test kit at site G2 .................................. 102

Table 25 Categorized scale of impact prediction ....................................................................................................... 109

Table 26 Estimated waste production at K. Kudavillingili during the operational phase (quantity values estimated using information at Ellaidhoo, Velavaru and Filitheyo, which in the sense is similar to Kudavillingili) ................... 116

Table 27 Environmental and health risks of emissions (Sources: Association 2010; Jackson 1997; Stafford 2009; Clean Air 2001; Defense 2002) .................................................................................................................................. 117

Table 28 Possible environmental impacts and mitigation measures for resort development works at K. Kudavillingili ................................................................................................................................................................................... 131

Table 29 Mitigation measures which will be implemented to minimise the issue of solid waste generated during the construction and operational phase of Kudavillingili ................................................................................................ 140

Table 30 Mitigation measures which will be implemented to minimise the issue of kitchen waste generated during the construction and operational phase of Kudavillingili .......................................................................................... 142

Table 31 Measures which will be taken to minimize energy consumption ............................................................... 148

Table 32 Measures which will be taken to conserve water on Kudavillingili ............................................................ 151

Table 33 Monitoring programme for construction phase of the project .................................................................. 152


Table of Figures

Figure 1 Location of wave gauge ................................................................................................................................. 32

Figure 2 Locations of transects laid out to obtain beach profiles ................................................................................ 32

Figure 3 Reef survey (R1 – R7), seawater (W1 – W3) and groundwater (G1 – G2) sampling sites at Kudavillingili reef ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 34

Figure 4 General area of reclamation and burrow area (detail site plan shows shape of reclamation). Sediment plume direction is derived from assessing the monsoonal wind condition. The dominant hydrodynamic factor, the swell waves induced currents will limit the spread of sediment plume with the deep lagoon. ................................. 37

Figure 5 Schematic of beach design ............................................................................................................................ 44

Figure 6 Organizational structure of the Environmental Management team ............................................................. 56

Figure 7 Location of the Carlsberg ridge near the Maldives. ....................................................................................... 66

Figure 8 Location of Kudavillingili near Thulusdhoo island.......................................................................................... 67

Figure 9 Seasonal Wind Rose plots for Hulhule (2000 – 2009) .................................................................................... 69

Figure 10 Power spectral density graph for the wind speed data from Male’ International Airport for the period between the years 2002 to 2006 ................................................................................................................................. 70

Figure 11 Power spectral density graph for the wind direction data from Male’ International Airport for the period between the years 2002 to 2006 ................................................................................................................................. 70

Figure 12 A 30 year (1977-2006) climatology for the Hulhule rainfall. ....................................................................... 71

Figure 13 Tide measured by the tide gauge and the superimposed predicted tide. ................................................... 72

Figure 14 Tide observed at Kudavillingili showing the mixed nature. Plotted here is only January 2010. .................. 74

Figure 15 Spectral analysis of the tidal constituents observed near Kudavillingili. ..................................................... 75

Figure 16 Sample of the spectral analysis of the wave data........................................................................................ 77

Figure 17 Dominant wave types for the entire period of observation. ....................................................................... 77

Figure 18 Climatology of the current regime around the Maldives region during the NE monsoon .......................... 78

Figure 19 Climatology of the current regime around the Maldives region during the SW monsoon ......................... 79

Figure 20 Drogue tracks indicating the current speed and direction. ......................................................................... 80

Figure 21 Current dynamics around the island before reclamation. ........................................................................... 81

Figure 22 Change in current dynamics after reclamation. Increase in the current speed would be observed near the northern tip of the island. ........................................................................................................................................... 82


Figure 23 Profile 1 obtained on the southern side. ..................................................................................................... 83

Figure 24 Profile 2 obtained on the south of the submerged jetty. ............................................................................ 83

Figure 25 Profile 3 obtained on the north of the submerged jetty. ............................................................................ 84

Figure 26 Beach near the submerged jetty. ................................................................................................................ 84

Figure 27 Profile 5 obtained on the north-west side of the island. ............................................................................. 85

Figure 28 Profile 6 obtained on the very northern tip of the island. ........................................................................... 85

Figure 29 Berm steps and erosion scarps are seen on the northern side of the island. ............................................. 85

Figure 30 The very north of the island is dominated by a rocky beach with high wave action. .................................. 86

Figure 31 Substrate condition at site R1. Values are mean percent cover (n=20). Error bars are standard error of means. DCA= dead coral with algae, CCA= calcareous coralline algae ........................................................................ 87

Figure 32 Generic composition of live coral community R1 (live coral cover 49.25%) – Porites spelling wrong in figure............................................................................................................................................................................ 87

Figure 34 Generic composition of live coral community R2 (live coral cover 41.67%)................................................ 88

Figure 35 Live coral at survey site R1 were dominated by Acroporids and Poritids (Porites rus) ............................... 88

Figure 37 Substrate cover at site R3 located at the proposed burrow site ................................................................. 89

Figure 38 Substrate condition at site R3 located at the proposed burrow site ........................................................... 89

Figure 39 Substrate condition at reef site R4. Values are mean percent cover (n=20). Error bars are standard error of means. SP= Sponge, CCA= Calcareous coralline algae, SF= Soft Coral. ................................................................... 90

Figure 40 Generic composition of live coral community at R4 .................................................................................... 90


Figure 44 Substrate condition at reef site R6. Values are mean percent cover (n=20). Error bars are standard error of means. CCA= Calcareous coralline algae. ................................................................................................................ 92


Figure 48 Substrate condition at site R6 ...................................................................................................................... 93

Figure 49 Substrate condition at site R7 ...................................................................................................................... 94

Figure 50 Existing entrance channel area at the southern side of the reef system .................................................... 94

Figure 51 Reef fish composition at survey site R1 – change Pomacentridae spelling in all figs .................................. 95

Figure 52 Reef composition at survey site R2 .............................................................................................................. 96

Figure 53 Reef fish composition at survey site RF4 ..................................................................................................... 96


Figure 54 Reef fish composition at survey site R5 ....................................................................................................... 96



Figure 57 Vegetation around the island .................................................................................................................... 100

Figure 58 Population of inhabited islands in Kaafu Atoll by broad age group (Census 2006, Image taken from DNP website) ..................................................................................................................................................................... 103

Figure 59 Employment numbers in Thulusdhoo, for various sectors ........................................................................ 104

Figure 60 Tsunami hazard zones, category 5 is the highest risk zone while 1 is the lowest (figure derived from UNDP report on Disaster risk profile for Maldives November 2006) ................................................................................... 104

Figure 61 Track of severe storms affecting the Maldives during 1877-2004 ............................................................ 105

Figure 62 Cyclone Hazard Zoning (figure derived from UNDP report on Disaster risk profile for Maldives November 2006) .......................................................................................................................................................................... 106

Figure 63 Surge Hazard Zones (figure derived from UNDP report on Disaster risk profile for Maldives November 2006) .......................................................................................................................................................................... 107

Figure 64 Schematic diagram showing erosion prone area (red circle) and possible sediment plume direction (black arrows). ...................................................................................................................................................................... 120

Figure 65 Proposed locations and alternative locations of feed water pipe, brine outlet and emergency outfall ... 123

Figure 66 Solid waste management plan layout for Kudavillingili ............................................................................. 145


1 NON TECHNICAL SUMMARY

1.1 BACKGROUND

The non technical summary outlines the findings of the Environmental Impact Assessment of the proposed development of a 700 bed five star luxury resort on the island of Kudavillingili by Kudavillingili Development Pvt Ltd, a Maldivian registered company which is a joint venture between Yacht Tours Maldives and Government of Maldives (95% and 5% shares respectively).

1.2 PROJECT DETAIL

Kudavillingili will be developed as a 5 star luxury resort offering a unique and exclusive product. The project will involve construction of land villas, water villas, service facilities, support facilities and a yacht marina. The project also involves beach creation and back filling works at Kudavillingili as well as reclamation of land to increase the land area of the island to accommodate the targeted bed capacity.

Front-of-House (FOH)

1. Guest accommodation units have been classified as 5 different varieties. These are specified below. 01 Presidential Suite 150 Beach Villas 25 Duplex Beach Villas (4 room, 2 storey) 10 Surf Beach Villas (5 room, 2 storey) 30 Water Villas (north eastern side) 19 Deluxe Water Villas (north eastern side)

2. Reception/Lobby/Administration building, Boutique and Library 3. Construction of restaurants

Main Restaurant Specialty Restaurant Grill Restaurant Surf Bar Beach Bar Lagoon Bar

4. Spa facilities (Eastern side of the island) Spa Main Area (on land)


10 treatment rooms (on water) 5. Dive Centre (western side near jetty) 6. Water sports centre (western side near jetty) 7. Recreation Centre with Gym 8. Kids Club 9. Jetty head Pavilion

Back-of-House (BOH)

1. General Manager’s bungalow 2. Management staff bungalows 3. Staff Family Bungalows 4. Staff Family Common Building 5. Senior Staff Block 6. Junior Staff Quarters 7. General Store 8. Maintenance Building 9. Staff Kitchen 10. Staff Restaurant, Training and Stores (Block 1) 11. Laundry 12. Cold Store 13. Service Centre 14. Mosque 15. Housekeeping stores 16. Recycle house 17. Communications Building 18. Buggy Station 19. Sewage Treatment Plant 20. Desalinator Brine tanks 21. Desalinated Water Storage tanks 22. Recycled Water Storage tanks 23. Fuel storage tanks (Diesel) 24. Fuel storage tanks (Petrol) 25. Marina

The proposed project involves reclamation of land north of Kudavillingili. Approximately 1.4km by 0.41km land will be reclaimed. The burrow site is located at the southern end of the larger deep lagoon, north of Kudavillingili. Vegetation clearance area at Kudavillingili is approximately 5230m2 which accounts to 9% of total land area inside vegetation line.


1.3 KEY IMPACTS, MITIGATION MEASURES AND ALTERNATIVES

1.3.1 KEY IMPACTS

Impacts on the environment from various activities of the resort development works (constructional impacts) and operation of the resort (operational impacts) have been identified through interviews with the resort management team, field data collection and surveys are based on past experience in similar development projects.

Possible impacts arising from the resort development and operation works are categorized into reversible and irreversible (permanent) 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.

In any development project major direct impacts to the environment (either short-term or long-term) occur mainly during the construction phase. Potential direct or indirect impacts on the environment (on land and reef system) from the proposed works are limited to a relatively small number of activities, which include:

Construction debris blown away by wind or spillage during transportation on to the reef

or lagoon (initially material unloaded using barge, but after completion of dredging works, the material will be unloaded at the reclaimed land)

Possible impacts from excessive sedimentation on the reef by reclamation works Direct loss of habitat and disturbance to the lagoon bottom and reef flat area by

dredging and pilling works at the water bungalow construction areas Direct loss of habitat and disturbance to the lagoon bottom by footing clearance for

pilling works for the over water structures. Loss of vegetation due to clearing vegetation for creating space for new constructions

(Kudavillingili proper). Ground water contamination by digging trenches or dewatering for placing foundations

of building and possible spillage of fuel or other hazardous chemicals (Kudavillingili proper).

Noise pollution during the construction works will be mainly due to the operation of heavy machinery and construction related equipment such as excavators, trucks and concrete machines.


Air pollution due to the project will be mainly due to the operation of heavy machinery like excavators, trucks, concrete machines, power generator, burning of waste and boat operations.

1.3.2 MITIGATION MEASURES

The severity of impacts is predicted by reviewing the design plans and construction methodologies. Mitigation measures are formulated in light of the information revealed by the project engineers (vegetation clearance method, piling method, excavation method and equipment or machinery used).

Mitigation measures are discussed for the construction and operational stage of the project. During the construction stage it is important to take measures to minimize generation of construction waste, impacts due to disposal of construction waste may have significant impacts on the degradation of terrestrial habitat or groundwater quality or reef health. Method of construction also has to be taken in to account to minimise impact. A construction method that has the least impact on terrestrial or marine environment has to be utilized.

Waste generated during the construction phase will be sorted and as much as possible reused (construction debris for construction works as filling, timber for form work). All burnable items will be burnt, the rest sorted and sent to the local disposal site or Thilafushi. Project management staff will be appointed for monitoring waste generation and management of the contractors working on the island.

Silt screen will be setup prior to dredging works to limit the spread of sediment plume. Silt screen will be provided at the western side of the reef aligned to the deep lagoon margin.

Food waste generated at the temporary accommodation and kitchen area will be collected in waste collection bins. Separate bins will be placed for collection of metal tins/glass bottles and plastics. All burnable items will be incinerated; glass bottles crushed, metal tins compacted and sent to local disposal site or disposed of at deep sea.

During the construction stage green waste will be generated from the vegetation clearance work on Kudavillingili proper. Large mature trees which have to be removed will be replanted elsewhere, on the reclaimed land. Daily cleaning works will also generate green waste; these would be used for making compost at the nursery.


1.3.3 ALTERNATIVES

Considering the alternatives for the project in terms of location, type of economic activity to be carried out has been decided by the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture. The Supreme Court ruling stated the area of land to be provided to Yacht Tours Maldives Pvt Ltd in regarding compensation to Biyaadhoo. Therefore extent of reclamation is not discussed.

Apart from the type of economic activity and location other aspects that can have alternative are;

Construction method of over water structures Location of over water structures Sewage treatment method Feed water intake method, outfall and brine discharge pipes Beach creation works Reclamation method Location of burrow area


2 INTRODUCTION

Kudavillingili located in North Male’ Atoll is leased to Yacht Tours Maldives in accordance to the Supreme Court Ruling in relation to Biyaadhoo Case. The resort will be developed by Kudavillingili Development Pvt Ltd a joint venture company comprising of Yacht Tours Maldives Pvt and Government of Maldives (GOM) with shares of 95% and 5% respectively.

2.1 PURPOSE OF THE REPORT AND NEED FOR THE EIA

This document presents the findings of an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for resort development at Kudavillingili. Developers of such development projects are required to carry out EIA studies under the Environmental Act of Maldives. The developer is required to obtain approval of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), prior to the implementation of any development activities on the island.

Land and Marine Environmental Resources Group Pvt Ltd have been engaged by Kudavillingili Development Pvt Ltd to prepare the EIA and to provide assistance in other environmental related activities. This EIA is prepared in accordance with Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations, 2007 and the Government of Maldives environmental policy and guidelines.

2.2 PROCEDURE OF THE EIA AND TERMS OF REFERENCE (TOR)

All development projects that have a socioeconomic environmental relevance are required to submit an environmental impact assessment 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, EPA makes a decision, on the type of the report that needs to be submitted, based on the impacts associated with the project. An EIA is submitted for projects with significant impacts whereas an IEE is adequate for projects without significant impacts.

In accordance with the regulations of Ministry of Housing and Environment, an EIA application form and project brief was sent stating the nature of the project and likely impacts associated with the environment. The scoping meeting was held at the Environment Protection Agency (EPA) on the 12th of October 2010 with the project proponent, consultant and EPA officials. Based on the discussions at the meeting, a ToR was finalized and approved by EPA on the 25th of November 2010 (see Appendix 1).


The project proponent revealed the nature of the project to the consultant group prior to a site inspection, which was then 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 and quantitative methods were used to assess substrate types and cover of the reef system. This study was complemented with both land and underwater photographs of the area under review.


3 PROJECT SETTING

The project conforms to the requirements of the Environmental Protection and Preservation Act of the Maldives, Law no. 4/93. The EIA has been undertaken in accordance with the EIA Regulation 2007 of the Maldives by a registered consultant. Furthermore, it adheres to the principles underlined in the regulations, action plans, programs and policies of the following Ministries of the Government of Maldives.

Ministry of Housing and Environment Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry of Fisheries and Agriculture

These are discussed in detail in the following sections.

3.1 MALDIVES TOURISM ACT (LAW NO. 2/99)

This act encompasses the issues related to the development of tourism in the Maldives. It came into effect in November 1999, repealing the Law on Tourism in the Maldives (Act No. 15/79) and the Law on Leasing of Uninhabited Islands for the Development of Tourist Resorts (Act No. 3/94). Act No. 15/79 was the primary legislation that was passed by the Citizen’s Majlis in November of 1979 and the main aim was to provide for the collection of a bed tax from the visiting tourists and to control their movement in the Maldives. While this Act only dealt with tourist resorts, hotels and guest houses, the amended act (Act No. 2/99) incorporates the determination of zones where tourism development can occur, as well as the development and management of marinas and the operation of tourist vessels, diving centre’s and travel agencies. This is evidence that the tourism industry has expanded since the enactment of the initial laws, both in magnitude and in the diversity of facilities that are provided for the visiting tourists.

The environmental legislation that directly applies to the development is outlined under article 15(a) and (b). Article 15(a) provides for the felling of coconut palms and trees, dredging of lagoons, reclamation of land or any other activity that may cause permanent change to the natural environment of an island leased as a tourist resort. It states that the activities mentioned above can only be carried out after obtaining written permission from the Ministry of Tourism and in accordance with the relevant regulations.

Under Article 15(b), a justification has to be provided for such an activity, as well as an environmental impact assessment, which has to be submitted to and approved by the Environmental Protection Agency.


There are several regulations under the Maldives Tourism Act (Law No. 2/99) and those pertaining to the environment are presented below.

3.1.1 REGULATIONS UNDER MALDIVES TOURISM ACT

3.1.1.1 REGULATION ON THE PROTECTION AND CONSERVATION OF ENVIRONMENT IN THE

TOURISM INDUSTRY

Under article 4 of this regulation, permission is required from the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture before felling of trees.

3.1.1.2 CARRYING CAPACITY FOR ISLANDS TO BE DEVELOPED AS TOURIST RESORTS

A set of standards has been imposed under this regulation to ensure preservation of the natural beauty and the environment of the islands as well as the consumer’s image of the islands. As such, the following guidelines are provided:

The felling of trees has to be carried out evenly throughout the island with the intention of conserving the natural façade and the beauty of the island.

Sufficient trees have to be left untouched when clearing trees for construction in order that they block the view of the buildings. All buildings, including two storey buildings are to be constructed below the highest canopy level so that they are not visible above the treetops.

The maximum number of buildings to be constructed on the island should be dependent on how much space can be cleared of vegetation, with consideration of the above factors.

The maximum area utilized for the construction of buildings should not exceed 20% of the total land area.

All buildings should be located at least 5m landwards/inwards from the vegetation line of the island. In the event that over water bungalows are built on the reef flat or lagoon, an equal area has to be left free on the island.

To provide the visiting guests with sufficient beach area, the guest rooms should face the beach with a minimum of 5m of beach allocated for each room.


3.1.1.3 DISPOSAL OF GARBAGE

Garbage from the resorts should be disposed of appropriately to avoid impacts on the environment. Waste disposed at sea should be disposed off outside the atoll, taking into consideration the wind and ocean currents to ensure that the waste does not get washed back on the shores of the islands

All resorts are required to have incinerators and compactors to be utilized for burning all flammable material and compacting the cans respectively. Glass is to be broken into small pieces and plastic and polythene bags burnt.

A fine between Rf1,000 and Rf10,000 is to be charged if the regulation is breached, and parties who violate these regulations a second time will be charged between Rf 50,000 and 100,000.

3.1.1.4 SANITATION

There are some components under this regulation that is applicable to the environment of the island. With reference to sewage and excreta disposal it is stated that the sewage system should be designed such that pollution of water supplies, beaches and other areas is avoided. Unpleasant odours should be prevented along with any negative impacts on the aesthetic qualities of the environment. Human waste should not come into contact with man, animal or food and breeding areas for flies and mosquitoes should not be present.

Insects and rodent control should be exercised through usage of closed containers to keep refuse and garbage. This garbage and refuse should be disposed of daily. The construction of the buildings has to take into account prevention of rodent breeding and extra care has to be taken in the food storage, preparation and service area. Pest control has to be carried out on a regular basis.

The section on mosquito control stresses the need to cover wells, septic tanks, junctions, soaking pits and rainwater tanks to ensure that breeding areas are not present. It also requests spraying of insecticides to eliminate mosquitoes.

3.2 SOME LAWS AND REGULATIONS THAT TOURISTS SHOULD BE MADE AWARE OF

Notices of certain laws and regulations are to be displayed in an area where they can be viewed clearly by all tourists. Some of these include:


The Fisheries Law (Law No. 5/87), which contains provisions on the use of living marine resources. Several species has been protected under article 10 of this law including the Napoleon wrasse, whales and dolphins, whale sharks, berried lobsters and those less than 25cm in length and turtles.

Law No. 4/75 which prohibits the import and use of spears, harpoons and guns to kill fish.

In addition to the Maldives Tourism Act and the relevant Regulations, there are Circulars issued by the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, advising the Tourism industry of their new policies or strengthening the existing ones.

Circular no. 21/90 (21.04.1990) advices all resorts having filled jetties to be modified so that they allow free flow of currents through them or new jetties to be composed of reinforced concerted stilts to be built in their place by the end of June 1991.

Circular no. CIR-ES/98/07 issued on the 27th of January 1998 states that all resorts have to obtain permission from the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture before commencing any coastal modifications. Hard engineering solutions are discouraged while environmentally friendly structures are supported.

Circular no. 88-ES/CIR/98/49 (23.09.98) advices of a new article that was added to the Fisheries Law (Law No. 5/87), concerning the moratorium on fishing for sharks from the outer reef rim of certain atolls from 08.09.1998.

Circular no. 88-ES/CIR/2002/12 (05.05.2002) deals with the proper disposal of garbage from the resorts in response to concerns that floating garbage from resort islands were washing up on beaches of nearby islands.

3.3 ENVIRONMENT PROTECTION AND PRESERVATION ACT OF MALDIVES

The Articles of the Environmental Protection and Preservation Act (Law No. 4/93) addresses the following aspects of environmental management:

Guidelines and advice on environmental protection shall be provided by the concerned government authorities.

Formulating policies, rules and regulations for protection and conservation of the environment in instances that do not already have a designated government authority already carrying out such functions shall be carried out by MHE.

Identifying and registering protected areas and natural reserves and drawing up of rules and regulations for their protection and preservation.

An EIA shall be submitted to EPA before implementing any development project that may have a potential impact on the environment.


Projects that have any undesirable impact on the environment can be terminated without compensation.

Disposal of waste, oil, poisonous substances and other harmful substances within the territory of the Maldives is prohibited. Waste shall be disposed only in the areas designated for the purpose by the government.

Hazardous / Toxic or Nuclear Wastes shall not be disposed anywhere within the territory of the country. Permission should be obtained for any transboundary movement of such wastes through the territory of Maldives.

The penalties for breaking the law and damaging the environment are specified. The government of the Maldives reserves the right to claim compensation for all

damages that are caused by activities that are detrimental to the environment.

3.3.1 PROTECTED AREAS AND SENSITIVE AREAS

Under Article 4 of the Environment Protection and Preservation Act, the Ministry of Environment is vested with the responsibility of identifying and registering protected areas and natural reserves and drawing up of rules and regulations for their protection and preservation. At present there are no rules or regulations made public on the designation and protection of habitats and heritage areas.

3.4 THIRD NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL ACTION PLAN (2009-2013)

The Third National Environment Action Plan (NEAP III) of Maldives sets out the agenda for environmental protection and management in the Maldives for the period of 2009 – 2013. This plan targets to achieve six major measurable environmental results that matter to the people of the Maldives, through a set of ten principles and thirty goals.

Under the NEAP III, the following principles shall be adhered to in environment protection and environmental management.

1. Environmental protection is the responsibility of every individual 2. Achieve results 3. Promote and practice sustainable development 4. Ensure local democracy 5. Inter-sectoral co-ordination and co-operation 6. Informed decision making 7. Precaution first


8. Continuous learning and improvement 9. Right to information and participation 10. Environmental protection complements development

Targeted results to be achieved and the goals set to achieve these results are:

Resilient Islands:

Protection of critical infrastructure and human settlements, Increased resilience of coral reef systems to climate change, Reduced climate-change related risks to human health, fisheries and food

production and the tourism sector Preparedness for natural disasters and mitigation of such disasters.

Rich Ecosystems:

Improved scientific knowledge and better access to information for biodiversity conservation,

Improvement of institutional and legislative systems to enable biodiversity conservation,

Protection and restoration of coral reefs, vegetation, terrestrial ecosystems and islands and wetlands and mangrove ecosystems

Control of invasive species

Healthy Communities:

Proper solid waste and hazardous waste management, Safe use of and disposal of chemicals and clean air

Safe water:

Provision of safe drinking water, Protection of groundwater and the seas Operationalize wastewater treatment to maintain resilience of water resources and

coral reef biodiversity in the face of climate hazards

Environmental Stewardship:

Efficient Environmental Administration, Effective environmental legislation, Strengthened Environmental Impact Assessments and capacity to plan and

manage environmental education and public awareness programmes, Environmental research


Environmental information

Carbon Neutral Nation:

Country wide awareness on what being Carbon neutral means and the importance and advantages of becoming carbon neutral,

Advance Energy Security Establish an Efficient Transport Network

NEAP III provides the basis for environmental planning, budgeting, performance measurement, and accountability.

3.5 NATIONAL BIODIVERSITY STRATEGY AND ACTION PLAN

Biological diversity on a whole refers to the total variety of life on earth; inclusive of genetic, species and ecosystem diversity. Earths’ ecosystems are made up from the linkage of biodiversity at various levels and provide the supplies and services crucial for human well being. Past, present and future generations have been, are and will be dependent on these systems remaining healthy and robust, thus ensuring the need and significance of conservation of these systems.

UNEP initiated work on the Convention of Biological Diversity (CBD) to address the need of conservation of these resources on a global scale. CBD was opened for signature on 5 June 1992 and Maldives became a signatory on 12th June 1992, followed by ratification on the 28th of October 1992. One of the most important obligations on signing CBD was the development of a National Biodiversity Conservation Strategy and Action Plan. Work on formulation of the National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan of the Maldives (NBSAP) commenced in 1996.

The objective of NBSAP was to “achieve biodiversity conservation and sustainable utilization of biological resources in the Maldives” by integration of biodiversity conservation into all areas of national planning, policy development and administration (MHAHE, 2002). The goals of NBSAP are:

1. Conserve biological diversity and sustainably utilize biological resources 2. Build capacity for biological diversity conservation through a strong governance

framework and improved knowledge and understanding 3. Foster community participation, ownership and support for biodiversity conservation

These goals are achieved through the following objectives and actions:


Integration of biodiversity conservation into the national development process, by formulation and adoption of suitable development planning procedures, land use plans and strengthening of the EIA process

Adoption of policies and management systems for sustainable use of resources, by development of consistent and appropriate national and sectoral policies and better management practices

Establishment of measures for in-situ and ex-situ conservation by means of protected areas, suitable quarantine facilities, strengthened coral reef conservation measures and mechanisms for protecting wetlands and mangrove areas

Management of threats and threatening processes by actions taken at the national and international levels

Adoption of economic incentives via establishment of various methods to value biodiversity

Improvement of knowledge and understanding and increased awareness by means of various research activities and awareness raising programmes aimed at all levels of society (grassroots to policy level)

Strengthening legal and institutional frameworks and developing human resources by reviewing existing laws and regulations, strengthening enforcement and implementation capability, capacity building and effective communication and coordination

Building financial capacity through annual government budget contributions, conservation funds and international funding donors

Increasing community participation via development of co-management partnerships and skills development, empowerment and mobilization of local communities

Implementation of NBSAP will be lead by the Ministry of Home Affairs, Housing and Environment with active participation from relevant agencies

3.6 FISHERIES REGULATION OF THE MALDIVES

Under Article 1(d) of this regulation, it is an offence to carry out any fishing activity on the house reef or the lagoon of a tourist resort without prior approval from the management of that resort. Furthermore there are a number of marine species that have been declared as protected species for various reasons.

3.7 REGULATION ON SAND AND CORAL MINING

Under Article 7(c) of the Regulation on Sand and Coral Mining issued by the Ministry of Fisheries and Agriculture (MOFA) on the 13th of March 2000, it is an offence to mine sand or


coral from the beach, lagoon or reef of any island leased for the purpose of building a tourist resort. Mining of coral or sand for the construction of resorts and associated facilities is discouraged under the policy of the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, and utilization of alternative construction material is encouraged. As an incentive, import duty is exempted under Sub clause 3, Article 9 of Law No. 31/79 for the import of cement, iron, steel, roofing sheets and timber for the construction of tourist resorts. However, sand mining is allowed for beach replenishment projects, predominantly from the immediate lagoon of the resort and in the case of a lack of sand on the island, from an area that is designated by the Ministry of Fisheries and Agriculture (MOFA) for such use.

3.8 BY-LAW ON CUTTING DOWN, UPROOTING, DIGGING OUT AND EXPORT OF TREES AND PALMS FROM ONE ISLAND TO ANOTHER

Pursuant to law number 4/93 (Environment Protection and Preservation Act of Maldives), the Ministry of Housing and Environment has made a by-law with the purpose of educating developers about the importance of trees including best management practices for maintaining trees and provide standards for preservation of trees in the Maldives and set down rules and regulations to be adhered to prior to commencing felling, uprooting, digging out and exporting of trees and palms from one island to another in Maldives.

The bylaw 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 bylaw 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 bylaw;

All the trees and palms growing in mangrove and wetlands spreading to 15 meters of land area are protected under this bylaw;

All the trees that are in a designated 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 are unusual in structure


3.9 INTERNATIONAL TREATIES AND CONVENTIONS

3.9.1 MONTREAL PROTOCOL ON SUBSTANCES THAT DEPLETE THE OZONE LAYER

The Montreal Protocol on Substances That Deplete the Ozone Layer is a landmark international agreement designed to protect the stratospheric ozone layer. The treaty was originally signed in 1987 and substantially amended in 1990 and 1992. The Montreal Protocol stipulates that the production and consumption of compounds that deplete ozone in the stratosphere; chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), halons, carbon tetrachloride, and methyl chloroform are to be phased out by 2000 (2005 for methyl chloroform).

Scientific theory and evidence suggest that, once emitted to the atmosphere, these compounds could significantly deplete the stratospheric ozone layer that shields the planet from damaging UV radiation.

The proposed resort development at Kudavillingili will not involve use or consumption of any substances banned in this convention. Even during the operational stage of the resort, compounds or substances that contain ozone depleting elements will not be imported.

The management of Kudavillingili resort agrees that protection of the environment is paramount and abiding by these protocols are beneficial for them not only to safeguard their investment but also as a marketing tool. More and more resorts are aware of the need to protect the environment and have initiated the necessary steps to achieve this goal.

3.10 CIRCULARS BY MHE REGARDING THE MONTREAL PROTOCOL

The circulars below gives details of import banned substances that are marked as ozone depleting substances in the Montreal protocol.

Circular no. CIR-ES/2004/29 issued on the 25th of April 2004 states that CFC-12 (R-12)

is controlled substance under Montreal Protocol and the stock in Maldives at the moment is exceeding the quota for coming two years. Therefore CFC-12 (R-12) import will not be allowed until the end of 2005.

Circular no. A-28/2003 issued on 27th May 2003 states that an import ban will be enforced on equipments or machinery using the two ozone depleting substances, CFC-11 and CFC 12 starting from 1st January 2004.


Circular no. 10-ERC/2002/44 issued on 19th December 2002 states that alternative environmentally friendly chemicals are available now therefore import of the following ozone depleting chemical substances are banned:

1. Halon gas based chemicals Halon-1211 Halon-1301 Halon-2402

2. Methyl Chloroform (111-Trichloromethane (Methylchloroform) CH2CCl3) 3. Bromochloromethane (Bromochloromethane (CH2BrCl) 4. Methylebromide (Methylbromide (CH3Br).

3.11 GUIDELINES FOR LAND USE PLANNING

This guide developed by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development (MHUD, 2005) classifies islands into 5 different categories. Kudavillingili is classified as a Category E island, which includes uninhabited islands that are used for economic activities, such as islands leased for agricultural use or resort development (previously the island was classified a Category A island). It states the preparation of land use plans for such islands shall be supervised by the relevant government office, in this case, Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, with the advice of Urban Development Department of MHE. When planning these islands, the relevant government office shall seek advice of the MHE. The guidelines also refer to a minimum of 20m wide Environmental Protection Zone (EPZ), consisting of vegetation to be provided around the outer periphery of the island between the beach and rest of the island. However, it also states the EPZ’s can be excluded from areas where the land use is for harbor frontage or for commercial use.


4 METHODOLOGY

The approach to data collection and compilation of this report includes;

Consultation and discussion with the proponent with regard to design and work methodology that would be used to implement the proposed activities of the project,

Examination of the existing environment to identify significant environmental components that are likely to be affected,

Consultation with major stakeholders to exchange information on the project and to follow the EIA procedures required for the report, and

Evaluation of available and relevant literature on environmental impacts associated with similar projects.

Information on existing environment was collected during the field visit to the project site on the 23rd April 2011. Wave and tide data collected from the reef of Kudavillingili during November 2007 were also used in assessing the existing environment of Kudavillingili. General information on the existing environment was based on available secondary data, such as climatic data for Male’ atoll in general (National Meteorological Centre at Hulhule). Oceanographic data and information used to determine the current patterns around the island were also based on monsoonal wind patterns, wind generated waves, tidal flushing, geographic setting, the topography of the lagoon and shape of the shoreline.

4.1 PHYSICAL SURVEYS

Wave and tide data were collected at site by using a high precision pressure gauge. Wave data were collected at the western side of Kudavillingili. Wave and tide data were collected at all tidal stages as wave bursts of length 30mins. The frequency of wave measurements was 2Hz. Data collected were analyzed using MaTLAB software. The location of the wave gauge is given in Figure 1. The same instruments were used to collect tide data.

Beach profiles were taken using an electronic level instrument. Beach profiles were taken only at the western side of the island (western side of the island will not undergo coastal modification) (Figure 2, Table 1).


Figure 1 Location of wave gauge

Figure 2 Locations of transects laid out to obtain beach profiles

Table 1 GPS coordinates of beach profiles and wave gauges location

Site Latitude Longitude

Profle1 4°22'40"N 73°39’43"E


Profle2 4°22'41"N 73°39’44"E

Profle3 4°22'42"N 73°39’45"E

Profle4 4°22'43"N 73°39’47"E

Profle5 4°22'44"N 73°39’48"E

Profle6 4°22'46"N 73°39’50"E

Wave gauge 4°22'45"N 73°39’42"E

4.2 MARINE SURVEY

An underwater camera with housing was used to take a series of photographs for assessing reef benthic community. Photo quadrats were taken along a 20 meter transect line. Randomly selected 20 quadrats were sampled within a 5 meter belt along the 20 meter transect line. Qualitative assessment was carried out at the burrow area and water bungalow construction area. Six sites were selected for reef benthic community assessment: 1. Patch reef inside the deep lagoon near Kudavillingili (R1), 2. Patch reef at the larger deep lagoon near the burrow area (R2), 3. Burrow area (R3), 4. Back reef area east of burrow area (R4), 5. Back reef area east of Kudavillingili near southern side of the island (R5), 6. Southern side of the Kudavilligili, at the channel side (R6) and 7. Near existing entrance channel (R7). The ecological setting of the sites R1, R2, R4, R5, R6 and R7 will act as a baseline for future reef monitoring. Qualitative assessment was done at the water bungalow area (Q1) to assess the ecological components at the site (see Figure 3 and Table 2 for location and GPS coordinates of survey sites). Coral point count with excel extension (CPCe) was used to assess the benthic cover.

Assessment of the selected fish community was also carried out at the same site which would also be considered as the baseline for future monitoring of the impact of the project. Fish abundance and density surveys were based on visual fish census techniques described in English et al (1997). The 20 meter long transect line used to assess the coral and other benthic substrate was used to estimate the diversity and abundance of 11 targeted coral reef fish families that are commonly associated with the reef environment of Maldives. All surveys were carried out by snorkeling. The depth of survey areas ranged between 1 and 2 meters.


Figure 3 Reef survey (R1 – R7), seawater (W1 – W3) and groundwater (G1 – G2) sampling sites at Kudavillingili reef

Table 2 GPS coordinates of the survey and sampling sites


R1 4°23'22"N 73°39'58"E

R2 4°23'21"N 73°40'10"E

R3,W1 4°23'14"N 73°40'12"E

R4 4°22'55"N 73°40'26"E

R5 4°25'33"N 73°39'53"E

R6,W3 4°22'36"N 73°39'30"E

R7 4°23'02"N 73°39'11"E

W2 4°22'47"N 73°39'45"E

R1R2

R3, W1

Q1

R4

R5

R6, W3

R7

W2

G1

G2


4.3 WATER QUALITY ANALYSIS

In order to assess the sea water quality, seawater samples taken from the sites (see Table 2 for the seawater sampling sites) were tested by the National Health Laboratory, Maldives Food and Drug Authority (MFDA). In-situ testing was also done using Hanna Multiprobe water test meter. Seawater from the sites was sampled on 25 December 2010. Results of the tests were received from the National Health Laboratory on 27th December 2010 and 3rd January 2011. Sea water samples were taken at the proposed burrow area (W1), proposed desalination brine discharge (W2) and proposed STP outfall location (W3).

4.4 TERRESTRIAL VEGETATION SURVEY

Prominent trees (mature trees) on the island were recorded using precision GPS, while shoreline vegetation was assessed by visual assessment recording the dominant vegetation types as a line feature in the precision GPS.

Groundwater samples were taken from two sites at Kudavillingili, location and GPS coordinates are given in figure 3 and Table 3.

Table 3 GPS coordinates of sampling sites for groundwater


G1 4°22'43"N 73°39'45"E

G2 4°22'43"N 73°39'45"E


5 PROJECT DESCRIPTION

5.1 PROJECT PROPONENT

The project proponent of the proposed development project at Kudavillingili is Kudavillingili Development Pvt Ltd, a Maldivian registered company which is a joint venture between Yacht Tours Maldives and Government of Maldives (95% and 5% shares respectively).

5.2 THE PROJECT

Kudavillingili will be developed as a 5 star luxury resort offering a unique and exclusive product (see Appendix 2 for site plan) catering for luxury yachts, surfers and up market clients. The project involves reclamation of land to increase the land area of the island to accommodate the bed capacity of 700 (land area was settled by the Supreme Court ruling). The project will involve construction of land and water villas, service facilities, support facilities and yacht marina. Details of key structures are given in section 5.6.2.2.

5.3 NEED FOR THE PROJECT

Kudavillingili was leased to Kudavillingili Development Pvt Ltd under the Supreme Court ruling as compensation for opportunity cost to Yacht Tours Maldives Pvt Ltd due to loss of chance to bid for K. Biyaadhoo. In accordance to the Supreme Court ruling a joint venture company was registered with 95% share of Yacht Tours Maldives Pvt Ltd and 5% share of GOM. Although the project is not under the Tourism Master Plan, the main aim of the project is to broaden the economic base of the atoll, thereby increasing the number of jobs and secondary tourism related economic activities and opportunities for economic gain.

The proposed project will involve creation of jobs during the construction and operational phases. Indirect income generating means include hire of vessels and purchase of reef fish.

Overall the project will contribute to the well being of the atoll community (especially islands nearby) by facilitating additional means of income (excursion trips to the islands, hiring women’s committee for cleaning works, sale of fish to the resort etc).


5.4 LOCATION AND EXTENT OF SITE BOUNDARIES

The island of Kudavillingili is located on the eastern peripheral reef of North Male’ Atoll. It shares a reef system with Dhiffushi (inhabited island) and Meerufenfushi (Resort Island) at the northern side. The inhabited island Thulusdhoo is located just south of Kudavillingili separated by a channel.

The resort development area will include the lagoon area to a length of 1400m north east from the northern tip of the island (see Figure 4 for project location)

Figure 4 General area of reclamation and burrow area (detail site plan shows shape of reclamation). Sediment plume direction is derived from assessing the monsoonal wind condition. The dominant hydrodynamic factor, the swell waves induced currents will limit the spread of sediment plume with the deep lagoon.

5.5 CONSTRUCTION PHASE AND SCHEDULE FOR IMPLEMENTATION

The resort construction phase for Kudavillingili is estimated to last 36 months. Listed below are the construction phases. For a more detailed schedule see Appendix 3.

Burrow area

Reclamation area

Possible sediment plume spread


Mobilization and temporary setup Reclamation works Beach nourishment and construction of groynes BOH and staff facilities FOH and other guest facilities Resort infrastructure (sewer, water and power grids), landscaping and final finishes

5.5.1 MOBILIZATION

This stage will include initial site clearance for temporary structures for material storage, construction of temporary sheds, sanitary toilets, temporary accommodation units for the construction workers, temporary kitchen and mess rooms. Septic tanks will be built for the sanitary toilets blocks as a means for sewage disposal. The sewage treatment plant will be constructed early on in the construction phase and once it is operational, the septic tank system will be dismantled and STP used in its place.

Construction material will be brought to site after completion of reclamation works. Cement, aggregate, sand, timber and other materials will be brought to the island on barges, heavy cargo dhonis and landing crafts. Mobilization of construction materials will be done after the reclamation and entrance maintenance dredging works is completed. Materials brought to site will be unloaded on to reclaimed land. A temporary access jetty will also be constructed for unloading material from cargo dhonis, while landing crafts can beach during high tide. All construction materials will be stored at the BOH area. Vegetation clearance work is needed for storage area.

Incinerators and wood chippers will be installed in this phase of construction for disposal of green and other solid waste generated during the construction and site clearance work.

5.5.2 RECLMATION WORKS

Reclamation works will be initiated simultaneously with setting up of temporary structures. The reclamation works are expected to be completed with 6 months. Initially a bund will be reclaimed at the perimeter of the reclamation area. Afterwards cutter suction dredger will be used for reclamation of proposed additional land area for the project.


5.5.3 BEACH NOURISHMENT AND CONSTRUCTION OF GROYNES

Part of the sediment from the dredging works will be stock piled on reclaimed land for beach nourishment. The dredged sand will be filtered and spread at the new shoreline. Prior to the beach filling works, the groyne field will be constructed to stabilize the new shoreline.

5.5.4 BACK-OF-HOUSE AND OTHER SERVICE FACILITIES

This stage of construction will include construction of back-of-house (BOH) and staff facilities. Power house, desalination plant house, sewage treatment plant, stores and other facilities will be constructed during this phase. Construction of BOH area will be initiated after completion of reclamation works.

5.5.5 FRONT-OF-HOUSE AND GUEST FACILITIES

Construction of front-of-house (FOH) structures will commence once basic facilities like power, sewage treatment plant and desalination plant house are completed. Guest accommodation units and other service facilities will be constructed in this phase of the construction. Construction of other guest service facilities such as the restaurants and bars, dive and water sports centre and spa will also be carried out in this phase of the construction stage.

5.5.6 CONSTRUCTION OF RESORT INFRASTRUCTURE (SEWER, WATER AND POWER GRIDS), LANDSCAPING AND FINAL FINISHES

This is the final phase of construction, which will carry out landscaping work. The vegetation removed during the site clearance work (vegetation that can be used) will be transplanted elsewhere on the island (from Kudavillingili proper). The vegetation in the nursery will be used for the landscaping work. In this phase, sewer networks, pump stations, water supply, irrigation network, water storage tanks, water drainage system, power network, and fuel storage will be constructed.


5.6 MAJOR INPUTS AND OUTPUTS

5.6.1 INPUTS (DESCRIPTION OF THE PROJECT IN TERMS OF RAW MATERIALS, PROCESSES, EQUIPMENT AND WORK FORCE)

5.6.1.1 MOBILIZATION AND MATERIAL UNLOADING

Construction material will be brought to site after completion of reclamation works. Cement, aggregate, sand, timber and other materials will be brought to the island on barges, heavy cargo dhonis and landing crafts. Mobilization of construction materials will be done after the reclamation and entrance maintenance dredging works is completed. Materials brought to site will be unloaded on to reclaimed land. A temporary access jetty will also be constructed for unloading material from cargo dhonis, while landing crafts can beach during high tide. All construction materials will be stored at the BOH area. Vegetation clearance work is needed for storage area (for storing material required for structures at Kudavillingili proper).

5.6.1.2 WORKFORCE

Total workforce for the project is 450 labourers at the peak construction phase. Temporary accommodation units will be constructed to accommodate the workforce. Sanitary toilet units will be constructed at the BOH area. Temporary kitchen and mess room will also be situated in this area. Once the STP is constructed, all septic tanks will be dismantled and the temporary sewer system will be connected to the STP. Since BOH will be located at the reclaimed land, no vegetation clearance works are necessary for setting up of temporary accommodation units.

5.6.1.3 POWER AND WATER GENERATION DURING CONSTRUCTION PHASE

Power generation during the construction stage will be met by two 400kVA generators. Temporary power plant will be constructed at the BOH area. Fuel will be stored in plastic barrels. Fuel storage area will be plastered to minimise impacts due to possible leakage or accidental spill. Once the powerhouse is completed, early in the construction stage, power for construction work will be met by the new generators installed.


All water requirements during the construction stage will be met by two 100 ton/day capacity desalination plants. Temporary water storage will be met by 10,000 litre plastic water tanks. Once the power and water house are built, water production will be transferred to the new building. Temporary water plant’s feed water will be met by laying a pipeline to deep lagoon, while brine disposal will be done at lagoon (western side).

5.6.1.4 CONSTRUCTION METHODS

RECLAMATION WORKS

30ha of land will be reclaimed as part of resort development project at Kudavillingli. Initially a bund wall will be reclaimed around the periphery of the reclamation area. This work will be carried out using excavators; the sand will be excavated from the reclamation area and filled at the periphery line. After completion of the bund wall, cutter suction dredger will be used for reclamation works. Burrow site is located approximately 200m north east of proposed reclaimed area northern edge. The burrow area is an area of approximately 158,000m2 at the edge of deep lagoon. One of the reasons for selecting this location as a burrow area is to minimize visual impact (excavation at this area will expand the deep lagoon area causing minimal visual impact, while shape of burrow area is such that minimal change is brought to deep lagoon profile). The burrow area will be dredged to -6MSL to attain required volume of dredged spoil. Reclamation will be initiated from shoreline of the existing island and extended in the northeast direction. Wheel loaders and rollers will be used for leveling the reclaimed area.

ENTRANCE CLEARANCE WORK

The existing entrance to deep lagoon located at the north western side of the reef system (facing the channel) is in need of maintenance dredging and widening at the inner side (which is narrower, 12m possibly due sediment run off from dredge material stock at the side of the entrance, while rest of entrance length is 20m wide) to allow large cargo dhonis and landing crafts to operate. Dredger will initially do dredging works at this area prior to reclamation works at Kudavilligili.

SITE CLEARANCE

Number of buildings at Kudavillingili proper will be 43 (33 beach villas, 9 surf villas and 1surf bar), this accounts to approximately 5230m2, which is approximately 9% of area inside vegetation of the island. Since more than 80% of the land to be developed is on reclaimed area, all vegetation that has to be removed from Kudavillingili proper will be


reused at the reclaimed area. Vegetation will be retained as much as possible, and only the required area will be cleared at beach villas, surf villas and surf bar area. Vegetation will be cleared manually and by using excavator. Temporary structures and facilities will be located at the reclaimed land, thereby avoiding need of vegetation clearance on the island.

CONSTRUCTION OF INLAND, OVER WATER STRUCTURES

Two types of construction will be done at Kudavillingili resort, construction of over water structures and inland structures.

INLAND STRUCTURES

The construction of all land buildings would consist of masonry work, reinforced concrete and structural steel work. Conventional building methods will be used for construction of the inland structures. Two storey staff accommodation building would require dewatering. Pumps will be used for this work; and water extracted will be disposed to the ground at nearby areas. Volume of water extracted depends on the time and tide. Since the BOH area is located at the reclaimed land, ground water is envisaged to be saline (since water lens formation will be in early stage at reclaimed land) no dewatering will be done at the Kudavillingili proper since there are no two storey buildings or swimming pools located at this area.

Dewatering will also be required at the swimming pool area; water extracted from this area will be disposed of in the nearby shoreline area (reclaimed) since the swimming pool is very close to the shore. Volume of water extracted at this area is estimated to be in the range 80-90m3; this volume will vary due to tidal conditions at the time of the works. The swimming pool, balancing tank and plant room will be constructed out of reinforced concrete. Mini excavators will be used for trenching purposes.

Mini excavators will be used for trenching work for power, sewer, drainage lines and water grid installation. Since majority of build up area is on reclaimed land, trenching works will have no impact on vegetation of the Kudavillingili proper. Sewer and power line trenches will be limited to the paths and walkways.

Fuel and water storage tanks will be built using steel plates. A bund wall will be constructed around the fuel storage tanks as regulation stipulates. The tanks will be built on reinforced concrete foundations. For this work dewatering will be required, and approximately 20-30m3 of water will be extracted. This water will be disposed of in nearby areas.


OVER WATER STRUCTURES AND PIPE LINES (EMERGENCY OUTFALL PIPE, BRINE OUTLET)

Over water structures will be built on concrete piers (300mm diameter). The footings of the piers will be precast on land and transported to the site. Footing area will be cleared using excavators. Footing clearance work will be conducted at low tide to minimise sediment plume dispersal. The proposed area for water villas and Specialty restaurant on the north east of the island is a sandy flat void of any live coral or rock/rubble. The spa treatment rooms located at the eastern side will be connected to the groyne at the area (groyne head used as a feature). The Lagoon bar will be located on the southern side of the island; few live coral is observed at this area.

The sewage outfall pipe will be located on the southern side (channel between Kudavillingili and Thulusdhoo) of the island run across the lagoon over the reef flat and down to the reef slope at a depth no less than 15m. The outfall pipe will be anchored to the substrate by concrete blocks.

Feed water for the RO plant will be met by boreholes. The boreholes will be constructed at the BOH area (reclaimed land), while the brine outlet will be located on the western side of the island, run under the arrival jetty and to deep lagoon.

5.6.1.5 ARRIVAL JETTY AND MARINA

The arrival jetty and marina will be located on the western side of the island at the deep lagoon area. A walk way will be constructed on piers to the deep lagoon. Yacht docking area and arrival pavilion will be separate. No excavation works will be required at this area since 3-4m draft can be attained at the deep lagoon.

5.6.1.6 BEACH CREATION AND BACK FILLING OF THE WATER FRONT

Beach creation works at the reclaimed area will be done using dredged sand. The dredged sand will be sieved and stocked piled at the reclaimed land. Initially the groyne heads will be constructed and the bay shape shoreline created with additional dredged material. Once the groynes are constructed beach sand will be spread. The elevation of beach berm will be same as the reclaimed finished height. The beach sand which is initially spread will naturally attain stability and thus create a new beach profile. It is estimated that 30% of sand will be lost, but since the beach strips are made as bays, loss of beach sand during the stabilizing period will be low.


Figure 5 Schematic of beach design


Table 4 Inputs for the for the construction and operational phase of Kudavillingili development project

Input resource(s) Source/Type How to obtain resources

Construction Phase

300-400 construction workers

Local, foreign By bidding and announcement in local newspapers

Construction material Concrete works: reinforcement steel bars, river sand, cement, aggregates

Imported

Temporary set up: Galvanized pipes, roofing sheets (temporary sheds), toilet units, toilet fittings, cement, river sand, timber

Roofing: Timber; wooden shingle for roof, thatching, prefabricated materials for the inland and over water guest accommodation units

Electrical: electrical cables and wires, DBs, MMCBs and MCBs, PVC pipes, light weight, telephone cable CAT 5, PVC conduits, 4 core armoured cables, PP-R pipe, Multi pump, UPVC (T1000, T600) for sewerage grid

Finishing: floor and wall tiles, gypsum boards, calcium silicate boards, zinc coated corrugated metal roof, paint, varnish, lacquer, thinner, dry walls etc

Reclamation and beach creation: Coral sand

Dredged material from burrow site located on the north eastern side deep lagoon edge

Fresh water Desalinated water Two 100 ton/day desalination plants/ rain water harvesting (plastic tanks for storage)

Electrical energy Diesel generators Two 400kVA generators

Electrical appliances/machinery

Energy efficient machinery and lighting; ozone-friendly refrigerators

Local suppliers if available if not import


Firefighting equipment Fire pumps, Fire protection system, Smoke detectors; Carbondioxide and Foam fire extinguishers.

Import or local suppliers/ Local companies will be contracted for maintenance of equipment

Operational phase

1000 operational staff for the resort

Staff & senior staff (local 550, foreign 300) Laborers (local 100, foreign 50)

By announcements in newspapers and other local media

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

Purchase locally if available otherwise import

Fresh water Two RO plants of 250cum/day each, one RO plant 150cum/day. Four water storage tanks of 230ton capacity

Purchase locally if available otherwise imported

Electrical energy Three diesel generators (1000kVA each), one 500 kVA generator. Two fuel storage tanks of 500ton capacity

Import, through local supplier

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

Local telecom company to provide telecom service

Transport to the island International air travel, domestic Speed boats

Food and beverages Mainly imported sources except a few locally available. Preference will be given to locally produced food items.

Import and purchase locally (fruits, fish and vegetables).

Laundry chemical Detergent, all-purpose cleaners, glass cleaners, bathroom cleaners, destainer, softener, alkali neutralizer, detergent, detergent plus, stain spots remover, etc. note: all chemicals are bio-degradable compounds

Import and purchase locally if available. No bleach will be used, moderate biodegradable material will be used for cleaning

Paper products Tissue roll, tissue boxes, hand tissues, guest in-room paper amenities/ brochures office use paper products

Local supply if available or import. Recycle products and fabric material tissues will be used.

Glass bottles Alcoholic beverages, juices Import, empty glass bottles re-exported for recycling


Insecticides and pesticides

Imported pesticides Local suppliers or import.

Fertilizers Compost and organic fertilizers Made on the island during construction stage and operational stage, organic fertilizers imported

Fuel, Kerosene and LPG Light diesel, LPG Gas, petrol, lubricants Local suppliers or import

Sewage treatment plant STP, 300ton per day capacity Import

Waste management equipment

Bottle crusher 1200 bottle/hr, Incinerator (160 kg), Compactor 12.6kg/cm3

if available purchase locally or import


For construction phase heavy machinery will be required for trenching, site clearance, dredging, beach creation and back filling works. Heavy machinery used during construction stage includes:

mini excavator (for trenching purpose) long arm excavator modified for piling work (construction of over water structures

and construction of groynes) Cutter suction dredger bulldozer dumper (material transport) Wheel loaders Rollers one truck (material transport) concrete machine (construction works) generators (power generation) desalination plant heavy transport vessels (transport)

5.6.2 OUTPUTS (DEVELOPMENT CONCEPT AND BUILT ENVIRONMENT)

5.6.2.1 SITE PLANNING

The site plans and building designs (see Appendix 2) have been drawn by GX Associates Pvt Ltd, a Maldivian company who has had extensive experience in resort designing and architectural work.

5.6.2.2 KEY STRUCTURES

Under the proposed project, inland and over water structures will be constructed. The proposed water bungalows and Specialty Restaurant will be constructed at the north eastern side, while lagoon bar will be located on the south western side. Table 5 below shows a detailed list of buildings.


Table 5 Key structures of the Kudavillingili development project

AREA PROGRAMMEKUDA VILLINGILI

ITEM BUILDING/FACILITY NO UNIT UNIT AREA UNIT TOTAL AREA UNIT

1 GUEST LODGINGS1.1 Beach Villas 150 rooms 150 units 56.54 sqm 8,481.00 sqm

1.2 Duplex Beach Villas (4 Room 2 Storey)

100 rooms 25 units 117.80 sqm 2,945.00 sqm

1.3 Surf Beach Villas (5 Room 2 Storey)

50 rooms 5 units 274.29 sqm 1,371.45 sqm

1.4 Water Villas 30 rooms 30 units 63.71 sqm 1,911.30 sqm1.5 Deluxe Water Villas 20 rooms 20 units 63.71 sqm 1,274.20 sqm

TOTAL 350 ROOMS

2 PUBLIC AREA FACILITIES

2.1 Reception Lobby / Admin, Boutique and Library

1 unit 570.54 sqm 570.54 sqm

2.2 Surf Bar 1 unit 234.92 sqm 234.92 sqm2.3 Pool Bar 1 unit 430.84 sqm 430.84 sqm2.4 Lagoon Bar 1 unit 295.46 sqm 295.46 sqm2.5 Main Restaurant 1 unit 864.05 sqm 864.05 sqm2.6 Specialty Restaurant 1 unit 304.14 sqm 304.14 sqm2.7 Grill Restaurant 1 unit 192.31 sqm 192.31 sqm2.8 Recreation Centre with Gym 1 unit 378.27 sqm 378.27 sqm2.9 Kids Club 1 unit 266.55 sqm 266.55 sqm2.10 Dive Centre 1 unit 387.34 sqm 387.34 sqm2.11 Watersports Centre 1 unit 51.03 sqm 51.03 sqm2.12 Spa Main (on land) 1 unit 248.05 sqm 248.05 sqm

2.13 Spa Treatment Rooms (on water) 10 units 34.00 sqm 340.00 sqm

2.14 Jettyhead Pavilion 1 unit 24.01 sqm 24.01 sqm

3 SUPPORT FACILITY

3.1 General Manager's Bungalow 1 unit 73.96 sqm 73.96 sqm3.2 Management Staff Bungalows 5 units 88.00 sqm 440.00 sqm3.3 Staff Family Bungalows 12 units 58.03 sqm 696.36 sqm3.4 Staff Family Common Building 1 unit 329.82 sqm 329.82 sqm3.5 Senior Staff Block 1 unit 463.84 sqm 463.84 sqm

3.6 General Store & Junior Staff Quarters

1 unit 463.84 sqm 463.84 sqm

3.7 Maintenance Buliding & Junior Staff Quarters

1 unit 463.84 sqm 463.84 sqm

3.8 Staff kitchen & Junior Staff Quarters

1 unit 463.84 sqm 463.84 sqm

3.9 Staff Restaurant, Training & Stores (Block One)

1 unit 1,260.80 sqm 1,260.80 sqm

3.10 Laundry & Junior Staff Quarters (Block Two)

1 unit 1,260.80 sqm 1,260.80 sqm

3.11 Cold Stores 1 unit 385.24 sqm 385.24 sqm3.12 Service Centre 1 unit 342.64 sqm 342.64 sqm3.13 Mosque 1 unit 161.45 sqm 161.45 sqm3.14 Housekeeping Stores 9 units 38.44 sqm 345.96 sqm3.15 Recycle House 1 unit 39.04 sqm 39.04 sqm3.16 Communications Building 1 unit 10.72 sqm 10.72 sqm3.17 Buggy Station 6 units 29.44 sqm 176.64 sqm

4 SERVICES INFRASTRUCTURE

4.1 Sewage Treatment plant 1 nos 75.90 sqm 75.90 sqm 4.2 Desalinator Brine Tanks 1 nos 21.16 sqm 21.16 sqm

4.3 Desalinated Water Storage Tanks 4 nos 28.27 sqm 113.08 sqm

4.4 Recycled Water Storage Tanks 3 nos 22.39 sqm 67.17 sqm 4.5 Fuel Storage Tanks (Diesel) 3 nos 22.39 sqm 67.17 sqm 4.6 Fuel Storage Tanks (Petrol) 2 nos 7.06 sqm 14.12 sqm

TOTAL BUILT UP AREA 28,307.85 sqmTOTAL LAND AREA 351,850.00 sqmTOTAL BUILT UP PERCENTAGE 8.05 %


5.6.2.3 MECHANICAL AND ELECTRICAL PROVISIONS

POWER GENERATION

The management believes in investing in innovative technologies that protect the environment. In this regard, a synchronized diesel power plant with a total capacity of 3500 kVA that automatically changes the load according to the usage requirement of the operation will be installed to meet the energy demand of Kudavillingili resort. Three generator sets of 1000kVA each and 1 generator of 500kVA will be installed in the power plant. The power house walls will be installed with sound proofing material to keep the noise levels down in the area. The system is energy efficient and also has capabilities for heat recovery.

Diesel will be stored in two 500 ton steel storage tank, near the power house area. Day tanks will be installed inside the power house for each generator. A bund wall will be constructed around the tank for control and maintaining accidental spillages or leakage.

AIR-CONDITIONING

Air condition units are provided for the air conditioning of the buildings/areas such as the guest rooms, kitchens, guest facilities, laundry and staff accommodation. All air-conditioning ducts, refrigerants and condensation pipes are insulated as appropriate. Air-condition units using environmental friendly HFC or HCFC (RC134a) will be used in the resort. All refrigerants used in the resort will comply with the standards of the Montreal protocol.

MECHANICAL VENTILATION INSTALLATION

All kitchens and Laundry rooms will be equipped with exhaust fans to remove the hot air and strong fumes from the building in order to maintain a healthy environment for the workers. Other rooms that require mechanical ventilation will be provided with adequate ventilations in accordance with recommended building codes.

SEWAGE TREATMENT PLANT

A sequence batch reactor (SBR) with a capacity of 300m3 per day will be installed on the island for sewage treatment. The SBR system works by oxidation and by homogeneous mixing of active biomass, creating condition for the development of bacteria which break down the organic matter. The biological reactor is configured


with one tank, suitable for receiving a daily volume of waste up to 300m3 and to discharge it subsequent to degradation by means of pumps installed just under the surface. The system is controlled by level sensors connected to timers and clocks that control the aeration. Effluent treated will be reused for toilet flushing and irrigation, after disinfection and drying. See Appendix 4 for schematic diagram of STP.

Table 6 Designed intake parameters for the SBR system

Parameter Quantity

Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD5)

53kg/day

Total Suspended Solids (SS) 66m3

pH 5

Table 7 Characteristic of treatment product

Parameter Quantity

Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD5)

20 Mg/litre

Total Suspended Solids (SS) 30 Mg/litre

Summarized below are the main process phases of the SBR:

Screening of sewage Storage and initial lifting Fine screening Biological denitrification and nitrification in SBR reactor Post reaction without feeding Draining the purified water with motor-driven pumps installed under the surface Disinfection of the effluent for reduction of eventual bacteria Filtration for the re-used water Control of outlet water from sampling well Periodic discharge of excess surface sludge accumulation and thickening of the

surface sludge Seasonal disposal of the surface sludge with dehydration plastic bags

The sewage outfall pipe will be located at the southern side (channel between Kudavillingili and Thulusdhoo) of the island run across the lagoon over the reef flat and down to the reef slope at a depth no less than 15m. The outfall pipe will be anchored to the substrate by concrete blocks.


Wastewater from areas including guest rooms, staff accommodation, laundry and public areas will be connected to the treatment plant. The sewage sludge will be disinfected before disposal. The disinfected sludge remaining after all treatment process will be removed from the treatment plant and used as fertilizer for landscaping and gardening in order to eliminate discharges into the sea.

WATER PRODUCTION, HOT WATER AND COLD WATER INSTALLATION

The primary water production for Kudavillingili resort will be met by desalinated water produced by reverse osmosis desalination plants. Two RO plants with a capacity of 250 tons/day, and one plant with the capacity of 150 tons/day, thus with a total capacity of 650 tons per day will be installed at the resort. This water will be used for cooking, washing, and showering. Daily monitoring will be carried out to check for water quality and rate of consumption. Feed water for the RO plant will be met by boreholes. The boreholes will be constructed at the BOH area (reclaimed land), while the brine outlet will be located at the western side of the island, run under the arrival jetty and to deep lagoon.

Table 8 Technical specifications of the reverse osmosis desalination plant

Feed water Reject water (brine)

Permeate (product)

Quality Up to 37,500 TDS

60,000 TDS <500 TDS

Quantity 16 m3 9.75 m3 / hr 6.25 m3 / hr

Temperature 25°C

Operating pressure <63 bar <2 bar

Multi pump, inverter controlled, booster system will be used for cold water supply systems. Hot water will be produced in the resort using Solar Hart and heat recovery system from power house. Hot water will be available to all guest accommodations and other necessary places at the resort. Clusters of rooms 5 rooms each will be connected to 600 ton capacity units, with all hot water piping made from PP-R piping.

Table 9 Details of M&E sector

Item Description Capacity 1 Power Generation and capacity (kVA)

generator 1 1000kVA generator 2 1000kVA


generator 3 1000kVA generator 4 500kVA

Total 3500kVa

2 Fuel storage Tank 1 500,000L Tank 2 500,000L

Total 1,000,000L

3 Water generation (t/day) Capacity Plant 1 250 Plant 2 250 Plant 3 150

Total 650 ton/day

4 Water storage (Tons) Tank 1 230t Tank 2 230t Tank 3 230t Tank 4 230t

Total 920tons/day

5 Incinerator (kg) Capacity incinerator (1) 160

6 Compactor (kg/) Capacity 1 (400kcal/h), 465Kw 12.6kg/cm3

7 Glass crusher (kg or bottles)

1 600-1200 bottles/hr

8 Sewage treatment Qty SBR 300m3 capacity per day 1

5.6.2.4 ACCESS TO THE RESORT

Access to the resort facility will be from the arrival jetty located at the western side of the island at the deep lagoon area. A walk way will be constructed on piers to the deep lagoon. Yacht docking area and arrival pavilion will be separate but the walkway will be shared. No excavation works will be required at this area since 3-4m draft can be attained at the deep lagoon.


5.6.2.5 LANDSCAPING

Locally available vegetation will be used for gardening and landscaping purposes of the island. Vegetation will only be cleared from those areas where it is absolutely necessary. As much of the natural vegetation as is possible will be retained, and mature trees removed from building footprint areas will be replanted elsewhere (vegetation clearance at Kudavillingili proper).

Landscaping details for the reclamation area is not yet finalized. Transplanting plants from other islands is expected for the reclaimed area. A separate EIA or addendum will be provided for this component.

5.6.2.6 SOLID WASTE DURING THE CONSTRUCTION STAGE

Waste generated during the construction stage will mainly come from the construction of prefabricated accommodation units (packing material, cardboard boxes), damaged materials during the unloading process, green waste generated during site clearance work, construction waste from construction of M&E complex (staff facilities, power and water houses and other service facilities) and food waste generated by the temporary kitchen and mess halls. Construction waste is also possible during the material unloading process due to accidental spillage.

Table 10 Type and sources of solid waste

Type Sources Card board box Packing materials

Timber Packing crates (unpacking of prefabricated units), remains of form work (at the BoH area), damaged wood work

Metal cans Empty paint cans, thinner cans, fuel cans, tin cans from the temporary kitchens

Wood saw Wood saw from carpentry, form work (at the BoH area)

Plastic bags Packing materials , temporary kitchen and mess room

Construction debris Excess cement at construction sites, dust from concrete work, accidental spill of concrete, rock or river sand

Empty gunny Cement bags, one tone aggregate jumbo bags, river sand bags

Metal Scrap metal from packing crates Green waste From site clearance work


5.6.2.7 HAZARDOUS WASTE DURING CONSTRUCTION STAGE

Hazardous waste generated during the construction stage is limited to the power generation and finishing works of the buildings. Below are types of hazardous waste expected;

Grease Waste oil (from generators, excavators and other machinery) Empty paint cans, thinners Batteries Chemical storage bottles (stainers, thinners) Chemicals used during finishing work, dilution solvents, stainers, thinners, water

proofing chemicals) Sludge from grease traps (temporary kitchens)

5.7 MEASURES ADOPTED TO PROMOTE SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

The project management team will follow the Environment Management Plan developed by the environmental consultant for this EIA report. Environment friendly construction methods will be utilized during the construction stage. These include:

Use of silt screen at the burrow and reclamation area to minimize spread of sediment plume;

The site plan was formulated with recommendations and consultation of the environmental consultants;

The passage ways or pathways are designed to be as few as possible to minimize impacts on vegetation (at Kudavillingili proper);

Vegetation removed at construction sites will be transplanted at the nursery for later use in landscaping the island (at Kudavillingili proper);

Installation of wood chipper, incinerator, compactor and glass crusher early in the construction phase to initiate waste management as early as possible;

Staff training to instill awareness on environment friendly concepts.

5.8 ENVIRONMENT MANAGEMENT PLAN (EMP) STRUCTURE AND RESPONSIBILITIES

For an EMP to be effective an organizational structure within the resort management has to be established and the individual roles and responsibilities of every person within this organization must clearly be defined as they relate to the achievement of environmental objectives and targets, and the overall operation of the EMP.


The administrative structure showing the people whose duties include active participation in the Environmental Management Plan (EMP) training, monitoring, consultation, reporting, review and/or decision-making are stated here with an example of the administrative structure for Kudavillingili resort shown in Figure 6. This figure summarizes the key management and supervisory personnel who will be most closely associated with the day-to-day operation of the EMP.

An Environmental Manager who is responsible for overall management of the environmental aspects of the resort operation shall be appointed. The Environmental Manager is responsible for the establishment and implementation of the EMP as well as reporting of the EMP performance to the resort's manager. It is also essential that the Environmental Manager has equal representation at management level as that of other departmental managers.

The resort shall identify its own training needs. It shall require all personnel, whose work may have an impact on the environment to have received appropriate training. It shall establish and maintain procedures to make its employees at each relevant function and level aware of:

The importance of conforming with the environmental policy and procedures set by the resort management;

The significant environmental impacts, actual or potential, of their work activities and the environmental benefits of improved personal performance;

Their roles and responsibilities in achieving conformance with the environmental policy and procedures and with the requirements of the environmental management plan;

The potential consequences of departure from specific operating procedures.

Personnel performing the tasks which can cause significant environmental impacts shall be competent on the basis of appropriate education, training and/or experience.

Figure 6 Organizational structure of the Environmental Management team

General Manager

Guest relations Manager Office Manager Personal Manager

Operations Manager

Chief Engineer F&B Manager

Environmental Officer

External Consultant

Beach monitoringWaste monitoring

Reef monitoringBeach Monitoring

ReportingTraining

Guest Awareness Staff trainingOffice staff Awareness Waste collection/disposalTransport

Beach replenishmentDive school

Reef monitoringGuest Awareness

Water generation/supplyFuel&power generation

Swerage systmeWater treatment system

Kitchen waste

Environmental Manager


5.9 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN

The resort shall establish and maintain program(s) and procedures for periodic environmental management systems audits to be carried out, in order to determine whether or not the environmental management system:

conforms to planned arrangements for environmental management; Has been properly implemented and maintained; i.e. provide information on the

results of audits to Management; and

Identify cumulative impacts from the coastal improvement program and mitigate any uncertain impacts that arise. The resort’s monitoring and audit program, including any schedule, shall be based on the environmental importance of the activity concerned. In order to be comprehensive, the monitoring and audit procedures shall cover the monitoring and audit scope, frequency and methodologies, as well as the responsibilities and requirements for conducting monitoring and audits and reporting results.

5.9.1 BEACH PROFILE SURVEYS

The beach profile surveys will enable quantification of beach loss or gain over time and also assess the functionality of the coastal modification design. Since almost 90% of land will be reclaimed and beach created, after completion of beach creation works, bench marks should be established at bay shape beach segments (3 profiles per beach segment) and beach profiles taken. The beach profile surveys shall be repeated at the onset of each of the four seasons NE, Hulhangu halha, SW and Iruvai halha i.e. during December, March, May and October.

5.9.1.1 BEACH SEDIMENT PROPERTIES

Sediment properties of the beaches around the island along the beach profiles will be studied on a periodic schedule. The baseline beach sediment characteristics will be established by the end of the construction phase. The beach sediment properties studied over a long period of time will indicate the nature of hydrodynamic forces acting on the beach and how the beach is adjusting according to the prevailing hydrodynamic regime. The sediment samples from the beach shall be collected at the beach slope and the statistical parameters of the samples shall be analyzed. The sediment sampling shall be repeated at the onset of NE and SW monsoons.


5.9.1.2 POSITION OF BEACH TOE, EROSIONAL SCARP AND SEASONAL BERM

The positions of the new beach toe, erosional scarp and seasonal berm provide the information on the shift of the shoreline over time. This information will compliment the beach profile data and shall be used to quantify the total loss or gain of beach material. The positions of these beach morphological features will be surveyed once every month for the first 2 years.

5.9.2 SOLID WASTE

The tourist industry is one of the largest solid waste generators in the Maldives. The tourist resorts of Maldives are faced with a difficult task of disposing the solid waste they generate, because of their isolated nature. The Ministry of Tourism (now MTAC) has made it compulsory for every tourist resort to have an incinerator. This however, does not solve the problem of disposal of waste. Many resorts have used other means of waste disposal together with incinerators. Bottle crushers and metal compactors are also commonly used equipment on resorts.

5.9.2.1 OBJECTIVES

The primary objectives for the monitoring of the solid waste disposal system for Kudavillingili resort are:

To ensure that the solid waste disposal practices on the resort meets the Government’s rules and regulations on solid waste disposal for tourist resorts

To ensure that there is no air pollution from waste incineration activity To minimise the quantity of solid waste generated at the resort To keep the resorts environment clean

5.9.2.2 TARGETS

Carry out all incinerations at high temperature so that there are no noxious gases and bad odor during incineration

Using products with minimal packaging Reuse of material such as printing paper Staff training on waste management/disposal practices Minimising kitchen waste


5.9.2.3 MONITORING ACTIVITIES

Making daily records of different categories of waste collected at different facilities at the resort

Regular checks of the incinerator Making daily/weekly records of volume/mass of waste incinerated, dumped at deep

sea, reused for gardening purposes, and crushed.

5.9.2.4 RESPONSIBILITY

The personnel responsible for carrying out the monitoring activities under this area of the EMP are:

Environmental Manager: Overall responsibility for ensuring the monitoring works are carried out periodically and systematic records are kept

Operations Manager: Responsible for keeping records of the different types of waste brought to the waste collection area, keeping records of the volume/mass of material incinerated, crushed and disposed. Also responsible for keeping records of kitchen litter used for planting and gardening purposes

Food and Beverage Manager: Responsible for keeping records of type and amount of waste produced at the kitchen and at food outlets

Environmental Officer: Responsible for keeping records of waste generated from the office

5.9.2.5 REPORTING

Results of individual monitoring activities shall be presented in the annual monitoring report.

5.9.3 FUELS AND OTHER HAZARDOUS CHEMICALS

Resort operations require the regular delivery, handling, storage and disposal of fuels, oils and other hazardous chemicals and wastes that have the potential to cause:

marine pollution due to spills during transfer operations soil and groundwater pollution via land spills and leaks explosion or fire

The range of hazardous chemicals handled at a resort is wide and includes:

flammable gases (LPG for stoves, oxygen and acetylene for welding)


volatile liquids with low flash points (petrol, dry cleaning solvents, paint thinners) diesel fuel (spills can rapidly pollute groundwater and inter-tidal reef flats) flammable oxidizing substances (liquid and powder chlorine, oxygen bleaches) Corrosive acids (for RO filter back-washing, floor stain removers, photo-shop

chemicals, etc.) caustic alkalis (for drain cleaning, alkaline and ammonia-based cleansers, paint

strippers, etc) poisonous chemicals (insecticides and vermicides)

5.9.3.1 OBJECTIVES

The primary objectives for the monitoring of the fuels and other hazardous chemical handling at Kudavillingili resort are:

To ensure there are no marine pollution risks as a result of handling, storage and disposal of fuel and other hazardous chemicals used at the resort

Prevent groundwater contamination as a result of oil spills/leakages Prevent fire and explosion risks

5.9.3.2 TARGETS

No leaks from fuel line couplings or fuel lines No marine oil spill incidents No fuel or chemical leaks or spills that threatens groundwater quality No fuel, gas or chemical fires or explosions All incompatible chemicals are stored and handled separately


Monitoring of fuel spills and leakages during tank filling operations Periodic (monthly) checks of the containment structure around the fuel tanks Periodic (annual) checks of the underground pipelines Weekly checks of all fuel and chemical handling/storage areas for compliance with

safety procedures




Environmental Manager: Overall responsibility of ensuring that monitoring is carried out periodically and systematic records are maintained

Chief Engineer: Responsible for monitoring fuel pumping operations and making records of spill/leaks. Also responsible for annual checks of the underground pipelines and monthly checks of the containment structures

Environmental Officer: Responsible for making weekly checks of all fuel and chemical handling/storage areas for compliance with safety procedures

5.9.3.5 REPORTING


5.9.4 REEF ENVIRONMENT

The greatest attraction of Maldivian tourist resorts is the rich coral reefs that surround these islands. The reef is a home to many species of fish, invertebrates and other animals. The coral reef plays an important role in providing protection for the low-lying islands of Maldives. Maldivians have depended on the coral reefs as one of their food sources for many thousands of years. However, it is after the introduction of tourism in the Maldives that the Maldivians have really started recognizing the importance of maintaining healthy reefs in order to sustain their economy.

The reef environment is subject to impacts of various degrees from anthropogenic activities and extreme natural events. Most of the shallow coral reefs in the Maldivian atolls were badly impacted by the 1998 global bleaching event, suffering some of the highest amounts of coral mortality recorded around the world.

Diving and snorkeling over the shallow house-reefs is a popular guest activity. Uninformed, inexperienced guests, who snorkel, swim and wade out to the shallow back reef and reef crest areas will slow down the coral regeneration process.

Coastal improvement and coastal protection measures often have some impact on the reef environment, for example sedimentation impacts. These have to be identified and mitigated as soon as possible to minimize the damage to the reef environment in the event such measures are taken.

5.9.4.1 OBJECTIVES

The primary objectives for the monitoring of the reef environment at Kudavillingili resort are:

To ensure a healthy reef system is maintained around the island


To prevent reef damage as a result of guest activities Assess changes to reef due to the development project (reclamation of land)

5.9.4.2 TARGETS

Inform all guests and staff about the importance of the coral reefs and how vulnerable they are to anthropogenic activities

Inform/educate the guests on what they should not do while snorkeling or diving on the reef

Collect and systematically record data on the health of the reef and its communities

Predict cumulative and uncertain impacts and address them in a timely manner


Bi-annual monitoring of selected areas on the reef (established monitoring sites in the EIA report) using photo quadrant method which has been established in the field surveys for the EIA work

Monthly photographic records of selected areas on the reef. This work will be assigned to the resort’s dive school

Reef fish abundance, establishing key indicator species using belt transect through visual fish assessment

Assessment of the degree to which the guests and staff are informed on the importance of the reef and the do’s and don’ts while snorkeling/diving on the reef with the Questionnaire for Assessing Guest Satisfaction on Environment Management.



Environmental Manager: Overall responsibility of ensuring that monitoring is carried out periodically and systematic records are kept

Environmental Officer: Responsible for filling the quarterly questionnaire Dive School (Dive Master): Responsible for informing the tourists on do’s and

don’ts while snorkeling and diving on the reef. Also responsible for making monthly photographic records of the selected sites on the reef

Guest relations officer: Responsible for informing the guests upon arrival on the resort’s policy and efforts to maintain a healthy reef environment


External consultant: Responsible for carrying out the bi-annual monitoring surveys on the reef

5.9.4.5 REPORTING


5.9.5 ANNUAL REPORT STRUCTURE

The structure of the annual report shall be as follows.

1) Introduction –

Introduction to the resort and the need for monitoring; an outline of the major monitoring activities and programs

2) Environmental Policy & Aspects –

An assessment of whether the resort’s top management has complied with the Environmental Policy. Evaluation of the appropriateness of environmental aspects and their rating.

(3) Objectives, Targets and Monitoring Activities –

A review of objectives, targets and the monitoring activities to establish their continued suitability in light of changing environmental impacts and concerns, regulatory developments, concerns among interested parties, internal changes/organizational activity changes, and changes in the environment. Assessment of objectives and seeing if targets are met.

(4) Compliance with Laws and Regulations –

An evaluation of the regulatory compliance and whether EMS objectives have been achieved and the root causes of systemic non-conformances (if any).

(5) Recommendations –

Assessing and determining areas needing improvement in the organizational structure, staff expertise, practices, administrative and operational procedures, training, work instructions, process improvements, corrective actions and preventative measures for systems non-conformance.


5.10 RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH THE PROJECT

A major risk associated with the project is the impact on marine environment due to reclamation works. Almost 90% of the development will be on reclaimed land. Therefore sedimentation impacts are a significant risk during the construction stage of the project. In contrast sedimentation impacts during the operation are thought to be minor, since the groyne field will limit the flow of sediments.

The dominant hydrodynamic factor dictating the water currents on the reef system are the swell waves breaking at the eastern side of the reef. Therefore any sediment generated during the construction stage of the project is envisaged to disperse to western side of the reef system. Since large deep lagoons are present before the inter atoll reef slope, sedimentation impacts are predicted to be moderate. Small knolls and coral patches are observed at the two deep lagoons. These habitats will have significant impacts due to sedimentation.


6 EXISTING ENVIRONMENT

6.1 GENERAL SETTING

The Maldives is an archipelago of islands in 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 25 atolls that comprise the Maldives archipelago contain more than 1,200 reef islands, the formation of which is poorly understood. Maldivian islands exist in the India Ocean monsoon environment where the wind regime is marked by strong seasonal reversals in monsoon winds from the west and northeast that govern short-term changes in island shorelines (Kench et al., 2003). Maldives experiences two major seasons: the southwest monsoon (SW monsoon, the wet season) and northeast monsoon (NE monsoon, the dry season). The SW monsoon occurs from May through October and the NE monsoon is from December through March. April and November are transition periods for the respective monsoons. The atolls are separated by deeper channels running east to west. The atolls vary in shape from circular and oval to elliptical. The total reef area of Maldives is 4,493.85 km2 while the total land area is 227.45 km2 (Naseer, 2004). Approximately 80% of Maldivian land area is less than 1m above mean sea-level.

The reef characteristics of the island vary considerably from north to south of Maldives. The northern atolls contain broad banks of discontinuously fringed reefs with small coral island with various patch reefs. In the southern part, the depth of the lagoons increases and patch reefs are rare. The continuity of the atoll rims is greater and a large proportion of the perimeter of the atolls is occupied by islands (Woodroffe, 1992).

Although Maldives is not in a seismically active zone, the Carlsberg Ridge which is a seismically active zone runs along 800 km west of Maldives. This ridge is a slow spreading divergent boundary between the African and the Indian plates. The zig-zag pattern observed at the boundary is associated with the transform faults where the plates are moving horizontally past each other. The earthquake of magnitude 7.5 at the Carlsberg Ridge, in 2003 was experienced by the Maldives. Figure 7 below shows the location of the ridge and the associated transform faults.

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Figure 8 Location of Kudavillingili near Thulusdhoo island.

The reef system accommodating the island of Kudavillingili has an area of approximately 0.80 km2. The reef flat on the eastern side is larger than that on the western side

6.3 CLIMATOLOGY AND OCEANOGRAPHY

6.3.1 WIND CLIMATE

Wind climate in the Maldives is dominated by the Indian monsoon climate South West (SW) monsoon and North East (NE) monsoon. The Indian monsoon system is one of the major climate systems of the world, impacting large portions of both Africa and Asia (Overpeck et, al., 1996). The monsoon climate is driven by the atmospheric pressure differences that arise as a result of rapid warming or cooling of the Tibetan Plateau relative to the Indian Ocean (Hastenrath 1991; Fein and Stephens 1987). During the summer of northern hemisphere the Tibetan Plateau warms rapidly relative to the Indian Ocean which results in an atmospheric pressure gradient (Low pressure over Asia and high pressure over the Indian Ocean) between the Asian landmass and the Indian ocean, which drives the prevailing wind from south to westerly directions. The period during which prevailing winds are from south to westerly direction is known as the SW monsoon. In the winter of northern hemisphere the continent cools relative to the ocean. This reverses the pressure gradient (low pressure over the Indian Ocean high pressure over the Asian landmass) and the prevailing winds become northeasterly. The period during which prevailing winds are from northeasterly directions is known as NE monsoon. The transitions from NE to SW monsoon and vice


versa are distinctly different from SW or NE monsoon. During these transition periods the wind becomes more variable.

The SW monsoon lasts between May and September while the NE monsoon lasts between December and February. The period between March and April is the transition period from the NE monsoon to SW monsoon known locally as the Hulhangu Halha, while the transition period from SW monsoon to NE monsoon is known as Iruvai Halha. Iruvaihalha lasts from October to November (Table 11). The SW monsoon is generally rough and wetter than the NE monsoon. Storms and gales are infrequent in this part of the world and cyclones do not reach as far south as the Maldivian archipelago (Ministry of Construction and Public Works, 1999).

Table 11 The four seasons experienced in the Maldives

Season MonthNE-Monsoon

December

January

February

Transition Period 1 March

April

SW-Monsoon May

June

July

August

September

Transition Period 2 October

November

Since there were no site specific wind data, wind regime around the island was assumed to be that similar to the closest meteorological station. An analysis of the wind climate was done using the daily averaged wind data for 2000 to 2009 from Hulhule meteorological station. In this analysis, wind rose diagrams based on wind speed and direction and the frequency of speeds and direction was produced. In addition, a spectral analysis (2002 to 2006 data) was done to decipher the cyclic nature of the wind.

Wind rose plots (Figure 9) shows that winds from WSW to WNW are dominant wind direction in the SW monsoon. And in NE monsoon, ENE and E is the prevailing wind direction. Rest of the winds throughout the year is roughly scattered (less than 30% of a year). These prevailing wind directions in both easterly and westerly winds are the


directions in which the strongest wind blows. As suggested from the analysis the winds in Kudavillingili are confined to WSW, W and WNW in SW monsoon and ENE during NE monsoon.

Figure 9 Seasonal Wind Rose plots for Hulhule (2000 – 2009)

The spectral analysis of wind speed data from 2002 to 2006 shows fairly regular cyclic variations of seasonal wind patterns (Figure 10). The strongest wind speed peaks in the power density spectral graph corresponds to 4 months, 6.1months, 2.4 months


and 1.6 months respectively. The strongest of these is the 4 months period which is 1.3 times stronger than 6 month period.

Figure 10 Power spectral density graph for the wind speed data from Male’ International Airport for the period between the years 2002 to 2006

Upon examining the spectral analysis for the wind direction data, its shows that even though the wind speed is at 4 months period, the change in wind direction is exhibited mostly in 6 month periods (Figure 11). The magnitude of 6 month period is 1.7 times of the 4 month period. This shows that the change in wind direction is a biannual cycle.

Figure 11 Power spectral density graph for the wind direction data from Male’ International Airport for the period between the years 2002 to 2006


6.3.2 RAINFALL CHARACTERISTICS

Maldives experiences rainfall throughout the year. However the renowned season for rainfall is the SW monsoon. The monsoon rainfall is brought by the passage of the Inter-tropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) over the country. On average, Maldives receives an annual rainfall of more than 2500 mm a year.

Figure 12 A 30 year (1977-2006) climatology for the Hulhule rainfall.

Figure 12 shows the 30 year (1977-2006) climatology for the rainfall at Hulhule (Male’ International Airport). The bi-modal nature of the rainfall is clearly depicted. The first peak indicates the active ITCZ during the SW monsoon and the second peak corresponds to the passage of the ITCZ over the country towards the end of the SW monsoon.

6.3.3 TIDE

Tides in the Maldives are usually characterized as a mixed tide. It contains two main cycles (diurnal and semi-diurnal tides) per day. Harmonic analysis of the tides represents the period of oscillation of the celestial forcing that gives rise to the respective harmonic.

Tide at Kudavillingili was measured for 10 days during the field visit to the island. Tide data was collected using a tide gauge deployed in the lagoon on the western side of the island (see Figure 1). Tidal analysis indicated the tidal pattern and was used to

0

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establish a mean sea-level for the bench marks established on the island. Figure 13 shows the observed tide and the predicated tide for the duration of the field visit.

Figure 13 Tide measured by the tide gauge and the superimposed predicted tide.

6.3.3.1 HARMONIC ANALYSIS

Tidal motion can be represented as a sum of series of several harmonics which is known as the tidal constituents. Each harmonic has its own frequency of oscillation. The harmonic analysis assumes that the tide at any location comprises of multiple tidal constituents. There are several tidal constituents, of these the most significant are formed by the gravitational attraction between the earth, moon and the sun. Table 12 shows the principle tidal constituents and their respective period of occurrences. The subscripts 1 and 2 represent the types diurnal and semi-diurnal respectively. Of these constituents, K1, O1, P1, Q1, M2, N2, S2, and K2 composes a significant part of a tidal signal.

Table 12 Principle tidal constituents (Defant 1961).

Name Constituent Period (solar hr)

Principal lunar M2 12.42 Principal solar S2 12 Larger lunar elliptic N2 12.66 Luni-solar semidiurnal K2 11.97 Larger solar elliptic T2 12.01 Smaller solar elliptic L2 12.19 Lunar elliptic second order 2N2 12.91


Larger lunar evectional ν2 12.63 Smaller lunar evectional λ2 12.22 Variational μ2 12.87 Luni-solar diurnal K1 23.93 Principal lunar diurnal O1 25.82 Principal solar diurnal P1 24.07 Larger lunar elliptic Q1 26.87 Smaller lunar elliptic M1 24.84 Small lunar elliptic J1 23.1 Lunar fortnightly Mf 327.86 Lunar monthly Mm 661.3 Solar semiannual Ssa 2191.43

The constituents K1, O1, M2 and S2 are used to classify the tides into four categories. The following ratio is used for the classification. = + +

Table 13 Classification of the tides

Ratio (F) Classification 0.00 - 0.25 Semidiurnal tides 0.25 - 1.50 Mixed, dominantly semidiurnal tides 1.50 - 3.00 Mixed, dominantly diurnal tides > 3.00 Diurnal tides

Table 13 provides details on how the ratio is used to classify the tide as semidiurnal, diurnal, mixed etc. Harmonic analysis for Kudavillingili is carried out using the tide data recorded at the Hulhule’ station which is the nearest to Kudavillingili. The hourly tide data for year 2010 is used in this analysis.

Table 14 Amplitudes of the tidal constituents determined by harmonic analysis of the tide

Tidal Constituent Period (hr)

Amplitude (m)

K2 11.9612 0.0391 S2 11.9970 0.1413 M2 12.4242 0.1813 N2 12.6604 0.035


K1 23.9210 0.1158 P1 24.0675 0.0298 O1 25.8506 0.0437 Q1 26.9009 0.0155

Harmonic analysis indicates that tide observed has a principle lunar semi-diurnal (M2) tide with a period of 12.42 hours, luni solar diurnal (K1) with a period of 23.9210 and a principle solar (S2) tide with a period of 11.9970 hours. Table 14 provides a summary of the tidal constituents and Figure 15 depicts the spectral analysis of the tide data showing these main tidal constituents. The above ratio is used to calculate the characteristics of the tide observed at Kudavillingili. The ratio obtained is 2.038. According to Table 13, this ratio indicates that the tide observed at Kudavillingili and Male’ atoll is mixed, dominantly diurnal tides. Figure 14 shows the mixed nature of the tide observed. For simplicity, only January 2010 is depicted. An approximate tidal range obtained at Kudavillingili is 1.076 m.

Figure 14 Tide observed at Kudavillingili showing the mixed nature. Plotted here is only January 2010.


Figure 15 Spectral analysis of the tidal constituents observed near Kudavillingili.

6.3.4 WAVE

Waves play a significant role in the modification of the beach environment and the surrounding. Determining its characteristics is crucial in the designing of harbours, jetties, water bungalows etc. Waves around Kudavillingili were studied using an RBR- gauge deployed in the shallow lagoon on the western side of the island. Error! Reference source not found. shows the location where the RBR-gauge was deployed to study the wave characteristics. Water level was sampled at a frequency of 2Hz for a period of 30 minutes and a total of 433 bursts were recorded over a period of 9 days. The data is analyzed using the zero-crossing and spectral analysis method (see Figure 16). Among the various parameters analyzed, following characteristics are summarized in Table 15 which shows a sample of 20 bursts.

- Significant wave height (Hs) - Mean period of significant wave heights (Ts) - Mean wave period (Tz) - Percentage of capillary waves observed - Percentage of wind waves observed - Percentage of swell waves observed - Percentage of infra-gravity waves observed


- Percentage of far-gravity waves observed

Table 15 Wave characteristics for a sample of 20 bursts.

Analysis of the results indicates that capillary waves are the dominant wave type during the time of field observation (32.57% of the entire time of observation). However, approximately equal amount of wind generated waves (30.21%) were also observed during the entire period of observation (see Figure 17). A possible reason for the high observation of capillary waves could be attributed to the fact that the wave gauge was deployed on the western side of the island (Error! Reference source not found.) and the effect of wind waves were shadowed by the northern tip of the island as wind is north easterly during the time of field visit. The maximum significant wave height observed was 0.31 m that had a period of 6.29 s. The average significant height for the entire time of observation was 0.16 m.

Bust # 154 155 156 157 158 159 160 161 162 163 164 165 166 167 168 169 170 171 172 173

Significant wave height (Hs) 0.25 0.25 0.21 0.15 0.15 0.14 0.14 0.14 0.12 0.12 0.13 0.14 0.16 0.17 0.18 0.20 0.23 0.26 0.26 0.29

Mean period of Hs (Ts) 3.22 3.01 3.22 3.17 3.13 2.75 3.11 3.09 2.85 2.86 2.93 2.90 3.12 3.12 2.98 2.91 2.72 3.07 2.98 2.96

Mean wave period (Tz) 3.96 4.02 3.99 3.38 3.35 2.81 2.93 3.03 2.77 2.52 2.46 2.64 2.94 3.01 3.28 3.30 3.37 3.42 3.19 3.10

% of Capillary waves 22.62 23.00 21.55 29.02 30.03 37.43 35.29 29.48 35.51 42.96 45.46 43.74 37.24 38.36 34.80 35.05 36.03 36.84 42.79 45.98

% of Wind waves 31.72 29.51 28.45 27.41 34.27 25.64 31.15 41.25 34.23 27.83 30.61 26.05 28.28 28.19 28.27 31.40 21.75 24.14 21.17 20.68

% of Swell waves 34.84 36.60 34.66 25.52 22.26 24.77 23.16 20.25 24.50 20.81 16.97 24.24 26.21 22.67 27.07 23.65 32.13 29.69 27.60 26.61

% of Infra-gravity waves 9.08 9.84 14.76 16.16 12.31 11.14 9.59 7.87 5.51 7.11 6.21 5.10 7.80 10.10 9.11 9.20 9.10 8.68 7.02 6.12

% of Far-gravity waves 1.74 1.05 0.57 1.89 1.13 1.02 0.81 1.15 0.26 1.29 0.74 0.88 0.47 0.69 0.75 0.70 0.99 0.65 1.42 0.61


Figure 16 Sample of the spectral analysis of the wave data.

Figure 17 Dominant wave types for the entire period of observation.

0.00

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Capillary waves Wind waves Swell waves Infra-gravity waves

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6.3.5 CURRENT

The current regimes at Kudavillingili reef systems are determined mainly by wind and swell waves and the tidal flux. There is no information available about the currents within the Maldives region. Available satellite information is used to draw information about the climatology of the currents around the Maldives region. This climatology is based on 10 years (2000-2010) data and the general pattern is analysed for two seasons.

Figure 18 Climatology of the current regime around the Maldives region during the NE monsoon

The climatology indicates that during the NE monsoon (see Figure 18), currents within the region is mostly from east and north easterly with magnitudes approximately 0.2-0.4 ms-1. During the south west monsoon (see Figure 19), the general direction is westerly and north westerly with magnitudes from 0.1-0.3 ms-1.


Figure 19 Climatology of the current regime around the Maldives region during the SW monsoon

Since site specific data about the current regime is not available, a GPS tracked drogue was tracked to determine the current regime at the time of field visit. Figure 20 shows the drogue tracks indicating the direction of the current and the average speed for the respective tracks. The study shows that at the time of field study, the direction is southerly and there is an increase in the current speed on the eastern side of the island. The decrease in speeds on the western side could be due to the reduction of the wave speeds over the reef shelf inside the atoll on the western side. The average direction of the current during this period was south and south easterly.


Figure 20 Drogue tracks indicating the current speed and direction.


Figure 21 Current dynamics around the island before reclamation.

Figure 21 shows the current dynamics around the island before reclamation. As in agreement with the dynamics of the currents seen in Figure 20 currents on the eastern side would be southerly which is created by swell waves generated from the south eastern side. Figure 22 depicts the possible change in the current dynamics around the island due to the land reclaimed. Although similar dynamics would be observed, there would an increase in the current speeds at the northern tip of the island. This increase would be associated with continuity and conservation of mass due to increase in volume of water towards the northern tip.


Figure 22 Change in current dynamics after reclamation. Increase in the current speed would be observed near the northern tip of the island.

6.3.6 BEACH ENVIRONMENT

Kudavillingilli has nice sandy beaches on the western side of the island. However erosion is observed on the south and south eastern side of the island. The island is in an “elongated S” shape island. Six transect profiles were studied during the field visit. All the profiles were taken on the western side of the island as the eastern side of the island would be used for reclamation for the resort construction. Figure 2 shows the location of the profiles.

In general Maldivian islands are flat and Kudavillingili is no exception. The maximum height obtained is 1.573 m above mean sea-level. The beach area found on the western side is larger compared to that found on the eastern side. Wider beaches are found around the “head land” like area on the western side. Due to swell and wind wave action, the beach area found on the southern and eastern side composes of rock and rubbles. A large surf zone of width ranging from 60-150 m is seen on the eastern side of the island.

Profile 1 (see Figure 23) is obtained at the western side of the island. Erosion scarps were seen in this area with scarp height of 0.3 m. Probable cause of formation of these erosion scarps is prolonged weak wave action.

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6.4 MARINE SURVEYS

The island of Kudavillingili is located on the eastern peripheral reef of North Male’ Atoll. It shares a reef system with Dhiffushi (inhabited island) and Meerufenfushi (Resort Island) at the northern side. The inhabited island Thulusdhoo is located just south of Kudavillingili separated by a channel.

The reef system has two deep lagoons separated by a narrow strip of shallow lagoon. The smaller of the two deep lagoons is near Kudavillingili, while the larger one extends almost up to the northern end of reef system. The eastern side of the reef system faces the outer atoll side while the western side faces the inner atoll waters.

Reef surveys were carried out at seven sites of the reef system (see Figure 3 and Table 2). Survey site R3 is located at the proposed burrow site, while sites R1 and R2 are located at the deep lagoon area. The sites R4 and R5 are located at the eastern side back reef area. The sites R6 and R7 are located at the southern side of the reef.

6.4.1 REEF SURVEY

The sites R1 and R2 are located at the deep lagoon areas (smaller and larger lagoons respectively). The site R1 was located on a rock/coral outcrop at the deep lagoon. The site was dominated by live coral (49.25%) (Figure 31). Dominant live coral genera recorded at the site were Porites (Porites rus) and Acropora (Figure 32). The site R2 was also located on a rock/coral outcrop. The site R2 was dominated by live coral


(41.67%) (Figure 33), where dominant forms belong to the genera Acropora, and Pavano (encrusting form) (Figure 34).

Figure 31 Substrate condition at site R1. Values are mean percent cover (n=20). Error bars are standard error of means. DCA= dead coral with algae, CCA= calcareous coralline algae

Figure 32 Generic composition of live coral community R1 (live coral cover 49.25%)

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Figure 33 Substrate condition at site R2. Values are mean percent cover (n=20). Error bars are standard error of means. SP= Sponge, DCA= dead coral with algae, CCA= calcareous coralline algae

Figure 34 Generic composition of live coral community R2 (live coral cover 41.67%)

Figure 35 Live coral at survey site R1 were dominated by Acroporids and Poritids (Porites rus)

0102030405060708090

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Figure 36 Substrate condition at site R2

The reef survey site R3 was located at the proposed burrow site. The site was dominated by rubble and sand (Figure 37). No live coral was recorded at the site. The burrow area is located at the south eastern end of the larger deep lagoon.

Figure 37 Substrate cover at site R3 located at the proposed burrow site

Figure 38 Substrate condition at site R3 located at the proposed burrow site

28.06

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Rubble

Sand


The survey site R4 and R5 are located at the eastern side back reef area. The site R4 is located east of the proposed burrow site while the site R5 is located close to Kudavillingili. The back reef area has streaks of coral/rock formations with sandy areas in between. Live coral is observed at these streaks. The survey sites R4 and R5 were dominated by rock and rubble (Figure 39 and Figure 41). Live coral cover at the sites was 25.42% and 16.75% respectively. Dominant live coral genera at R4 were Acropora followed by Porites (Figure 40). The dominant live coral genera at R5 was Porites (Figure 42).

Figure 39 Substrate condition at reef site R4. Values are mean percent cover (n=20). Error bars are standard error of means. SP= Sponge, CCA= Calcareous coralline algae, SF= Soft Coral.

Figure 40 Generic composition of live coral community at R4

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Live coral SP Halimeda Ascidian CCA SF Rock Rubble Sand

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Figure 41 Substrate condition at reef site R5. Values are mean percent cover (n=20). Error bars are standard error of means. ZO= Zoanthids, DCA= Dead coral with Algae, CCA= Calcareous coralline algae


Figure 43 Substrate condition at R4 and R5. Massive life forms were dominant at both sites

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Live Coral ZO Halimeda Ascidian DCA CCA Rock Rubble Sand

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ACE ACT Goniastrea Leptastrea Pavona Pocillopora Porites Psammacora

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The survey sites R6 and R7 were located at the southern side of the reef system facing the channel (Thulusdhoo kandu). The site R6 was dominated by rock, with very few live coral (Figure 44). According to the boat operator hired from Thulusdhoo, this side of the reef (southern side facing the channel) was extensively mined during the sea wall construction at Thulusdhoo. Live coral cover at the site was 2.54%. Only encrusting forms of live coral were observed at the site (Figure 45).

The site R7 was located near the existing entrance channel to the deep lagoon at the southern side of the reef system. Similar to site R6 substrate at R7 was dominated by rock while live coral cover was very low (5.83%) (Figure 46). Few Acropora digitate forms were recorded at the site. Dominant live coral observed at the area were encrusting forms of Poritids (Figure 47).

Figure 44 Substrate condition at reef site R6. Values are mean percent cover (n=20). Error bars are standard error of means. CCA= Calcareous coralline algae.


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Figure 46 Benthic community at reef site R7. Values are mean percent cover (n=20). Error bars are standard error of means. MA= Macro algae, DCA= Dead coral with algae, CCA= Calcareous coralline algae.



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Figure 50 Existing entrance channel area at the southern side of the reef system

6.4.2 FISH COMMUNITY

Reef fish surveys were carried out at sites R1, 2, 4, 5, 6 and 7. The site R3 was located at the burrow site.

Herbivorous fish species were dominant at all survey sites. The dominant groups of reef fish at all six sites were Acanthurids, Labrids and Pomacentrids. Very few Serranids were observed at the survey sites. Since Acropora cover was low at most of the sites, numbers of Chaetodontids (butterflyfish) were very low. Summary of reef fish survey is provided in Table 16 and reef fish compositions at the sites are shown for each individual site in figures 51 to 56.


Table 16 Results of the fish census survey carried out at sites R1, R2, R4, R5, R6 and R7.

Family Sites R1 R2 R4 R5 R6 R7

Acanthuridae 21 16 12 26 42 25 Balistidae 2 6 12 29 27 Caesionidae 16 13 Carangidae 1 2 1 Chaetodontidae 5 2 1 3 1 Diodontidae 2 Fistularidae 1 3 Kyphosidae 6 12 5 Labridae 37 26 34 39 23 41 Lethrinidae 2 1 6 10 1 Lutjanidae 1 1 1 Mugilidae 11 5 6 10 2 7 Pomacentridae 46 53 41 54 26 34 Scaridae 12 8 2 13 18 Serranidae 2 2 1 Tetraodontidae 1 2 1 1 Total count 144 117 111 159 167 175

Figure 51 Reef fish composition at survey site R1

32%

15%26%

3%

8%

1%

1%

1%4% 1% 8%

Pomacentridae

Acanthuridae

Labridae

Chaetodontidae

Scaridae

Serranidae

Lutjanidae

Lethrinidae

Kyphosidae

Tetraodontidae

Mugilidae


Figure 52 Reef composition at survey site R2

Figure 53 Reef fish composition at survey site RF4


45%

13%

22%

2%7%

2%1%

2% 1% 1% 4%Pomacentridae

Acanthuridae

Labridae

Chaetodontidae

Scaridae

Balistidae

Lethrinidae

Tetraodontidae

Fistularidae

Carangidae

37%

11%31%

1%2%5%

5%

1% 5% 2%Pomacentridae

Acanthuridae

Labridae

Chaetodontidae

Scaridae

Balistidae

Lethrinidae

Tetraodontidae

Mugilidae

Diodontidae

34%

16%25%

2%1%

8%

1%

6%1% 6%

Pomacentridae

Acanthuridae

Labridae

Chaetodontidae

Serranidae

Balistidae

Lutjanidae

Lethrinidae

Carangidae

Mugilidae




6.4.3 SEAWATER QUALITY

The condition or quality of coastal water is important for ecological functioning of the organisms living in the habitat, for health and safety reasons and also for visual and aesthetic impacts. The water quality is generally determined by the level of nutrients. There are several sources that can lead to increased nutrients in coastal waters, e.g. sewage effluents and terrestrial storm water runoff. Sediment stir-up can also lead to release of nutrients within the sediments especially when there is excavation and dredging involved.

The most important nutrients of concern in coastal waters are nitrates and phosphates. In excessive quantities these can cause rapid growth of phytoplankton and result in algal blooms. Visual quality of the water is also important, a beach environment is much more attractive when the water is clean and one can see the sea bottom. However, even clear waters may sometimes be polluted. Dredging and

15%

25%

14%8%

17%

1%

7%

2%10% 1%

Pomacentridae

Acanthuridae

Labridae

Scaridae

Balistidae

Lethrinidae

Kyphosidae

Fistularidae

Caesionidae

Mugilidae

19%

14%

23%1%

10%

1%

15%

1%3% 1%

7% 1% 4%Pomacentridae

Acanthuridae

Labridae

Chaetodontidae

Scaridae

Serranidae

Balistidae

Lutjanidae

Kyphosidae

Tetraodontidae


excavation often carry heavy load of sediments increasing sediment load in the water column causing discoloration of the of the impact area for a prolonged period.

It is worthwhile to note here that there is no direct input source of nutrients in the coastal waters as a result of the proposed activities but rather a potential release of nutrients associated with dredging or excavation. Therefore the purpose of the assessment of water quality is to establish a baseline for the seawater quality, taken as a standard to compare with any future water quality assessments. A list of parameters tested and their values for the three locations are given in

Table 17. Phosphate, Nitrate and COD test requested for analysis are not available due to the lack of reagents at the National Health Laboratory at the time of the request for analysis. Due to the lack of analysis of these samples at the time of the field surveys it is the suggestion of the consultant that water samples from the marine environment be tested for these parameters prior to the beginning of the construction of the project and submitted along with the first monitoring report.

Results of the n-situ testing using Hanna Multiprobe water test meter are shown in tables 18 – 20 for sites W1, W2 and W3.

Table 17 Seawater quality parameters tested and their results at the sampling locations at K. Kudavillingili. Data analysis was carried out by the National Health Laboratory, Maldives Food and Drug Authority. tna=test not available when the samples were submitted to NHL for analysis

Parameters W1 W2 W3

Physical appearance Clear with suspended particles

Clear with suspended particles

Clear with suspended particles

Apparent colour (TCU) 0 0 0

Phosphate (mg/l) -tna -tna -tna

Ammonia (mg/l) 1.13 2.33 1.10

Nitrate(mg/l) -tna -tna -tna

Nitrite(mg/l) 0 0 0

Biological Oxygen demand (mg/l) 14 8 12

Chemical Oxygen Demand (mg/l) -tna -tna -tna

Total coliform count/100ml 276 0

Feacal coliform (E.coli)/100ml 0 0


Table 18 In-situ water testing carried out using Hanna multi probe water test kit at site W1

Reading Temp. (°C) pH DO

(mg/l) Conductivity

(µS/cm ) TDS (g/l)

Salinity (ppt)

1 30.42 8.52 1.67 55470 25.150 32.78 2 30.44 8.57 1.69 55470 25.130 32.76 3 30.46 8.58 1.69 55470 25.130 32.75 4 30.47 8.59 1.70 55480 25.130 32.75 5 30.46 8.61 1.70 55490 25.140 32.76 6 30.46 8.62 1.71 55490 25.140 32.76 7 30.46 8.63 1.71 55490 25.140 32.76 8 30.46 8.64 1.71 55490 25.140 32.76 9 30.47 8.64 1.71 55490 25.130 32.76

10 30.48 8.65 1.71 55490 25.130 32.75 Average 30.46 8.61 1.70 55483.00 25.14 32.76



(mg/l) Conductivity

(µS/cm ) TDS (g/l)

Salinity (ppt)

1 30.44 8.43 1.35 55120 24.970 32.53 2 29.14 8.68 1.44 55070 25.530 33.38 3 29.10 8.68 1.44 55040 25.530 33.39 4 29.13 8.67 1.44 55030 25.510 33.36 5 29.13 8.67 1.44 55030 25.510 33.36 6 29.14 8.67 1.44 55030 25.510 33.36 7 29.14 8.68 1.45 55050 25.510 33.36 8 29.13 8.68 1.45 55050 25.520 33.37 9 29.12 8.67 1.45 55040 25.520 33.38

10 29.11 8.67 1.46 55030 25.520 33.38 Average 29.26 8.65 1.44 55049.00 25.46 33.29



(mg/l) Conductivity

(µS/cm ) TDS (g/l)

Salinity (ppt)

1 28.32 8.71 1.34 53950 25.370 33.19 2 28.29 8.69 1.33 53970 25.400 33.22 3 28.29 8.69 1.33 53980 25.400 33.22 4 28.30 8.68 1.33 53980 25.400 33.22 5 28.31 8.68 1.34 53980 25.390 33.22 6 28.32 8.68 1.34 53990 25.390 33.22 7 28.32 8.68 1.34 53990 25.400 33.22 8 28.32 8.68 1.34 54000 25.400 33.22 9 28.31 8.68 1.34 54000 25.400 33.23

10 28.32 8.68 1.34 54000 25.400 33.22 Average 28.3 8.7 1.3 53984.0 25.4 33.2


6.5 TERRESTRIAL ENVIRONMENT

6.5.1 FLORA

The vegetation at Kudavillingili is mostly dominated by shrubs and bushy vegetation on the southern side. These include Sea lettuce trees and Pandanus trees. On the northern side coconut palms and Sea hibiscus trees are dominant. A large area of the northern side is composed of infrastructure used by MNDF.

The shoreline vegetation of the island was dominated by plants which can endure high levels of salinity, salt spray and wind such as Pemphis acidula (kuredhi), Scaevola taccada (Magoo) and Guettarda speciosa (Figure 57). The eastern side of the islands shoreline was dominated by Scaevola taccada and Pemphis acidula, while the western side was dominated by Scaevola taccada. The southern side of the islands shoreline was dominated by Pandus and Scaevola taccada. These plants also play a major role in reducing the amount of beach erosion.

Figure 57 Vegetation around the island

Tree survey map is provided in Appendix 5. Tree survey was carried out using precision GPS and only mature, significant trees were recorded (Table 21).


Table 21 Summary of tree survey carried out at Kudavillingili (only mature, significant trees were recorded as part of the tree survey)

English name Species Count Coconut palm Cocus nucifera 225 Sea Hibiscus Hibiscus tilaceus 69 Beef wood Casuarina equisetifolia 4 Alexander laurel wood Calophyllum inophyllum 1 Tulip tree Thespacea populnea 43 Jack in the box tree Hernandia nymphaeifolia 2 Sea Trumpet Cordia subcordata 46 Lettuce tree Pisonia grandis 6 Country almond Terminalia catappa 1 Banyan tree Ficus benghalensis 3

6.5.2 GROUNDWATER

Groundwater is the primary source of potable water available in the islands of Maldives due to lack of surface running water which is a result of the geomorphologic characteristics of the islands being atoll based. Groundwater or freshwater lens develops from rain infiltrating the soil of the coral islands and forms as a result of density differences between fresh and saline groundwater. All soil on coral islands are calcareous residual corals derived from weathered corals that form the bedrock coral limestone foundation of the islands. These soil types have a very high vertical permeability and hydraulic conductivity in the order of several meters per day.

The average recharge of groundwater in the islands of Maldives has been estimated from 40% of rainfall. Based on the average rainfall of approximately 1700mm/year, this amounts to 680mm/year which is equivalent to 6800m3 per hectare per year. Studies on recharge of the groundwater lens from rainwater of Pacific atolls also indicate 30-40% recharge potential (Abraham et al (Year unknown)). Studies in Maldives by Falkland have defined a generalized recharge potential as 30% of the rainfall with 10% variation depending on the vegetation cover which is in agreement with Abraham et al. (GWP Consultants, 2006).

In order to estimate the groundwater quality of the island, water samples were taken from two locations (see figure 3 and table 3 for location and GPS coordinates) and analyzed for selected parameters (Table 22) at the National Health Laboratory of MFDA. Results of in-situ water quality tests conducted are shown in tables 23 and 24.


Table 22 Results of the parameters tested to assess groundwater quality at the sampling locations at K. Kudavillingili. Data analysis was carried out by the National Health Laboratory, Maldives Food and Drug Authority. tna=test not available when the samples were submitted to NHL for analysis

Parameters G1 G2

Physical appearance Pale yellow with suspended particles

Pale yellow with suspended particles

Apparent colour (TCU) 131 77

Phosphate (mg/l) -tna -tna

Ammonia (mg/l) 2.7 0.87

Nitrate(mg/l) -tna -tna

Nitrite(mg/l) 0 0

Biological Oxygen demand (mg/l) 34 24

Chemical Oxygen Demand (mg/l) -tna -tna

Total coliform count/100ml 0 0

Feacal coliform (E.coli)/100ml 0 0

Table 23 In-situ water testing carried out using Hanna multi probe water test kit at site G1

Reading Temp. (°C) pH DO (mg/l) Conductivity

(µS/cm ) TDS (g/l)

Salinity (ppt)

1 27.97 7.48 0.78 2250 1.065 1.08

2 27.97 7.41 0.70 26840 12.700 15.42

3 27.97 7.40 0.69 26840 12.700 15.42

4 27.96 7.40 0.68 26850 12.710 15.43

5 27.96 7.40 0.68 26850 12.710 15.43

Average 27.97 7.42 0.71 21926.00 10.38 12.56

Table 24 In-situ water testing carried out using Hanna multi probe water test kit at site G2

Reading Temp. (°C) pH DO (mg/l) Conductivity

(µS/cm ) TDS (g/l)

Salinity (ppt)

1 30.43 8.09 1.13 2250 1.020 1.03

2 30.21 7.75 1.03 9461 4.304 4.75

3 30.36 7.71 1.01 10510 4.771 5.31

4 30.34 7.68 0.98 10540 4.786 5.33

5 30.23 7.65 0.92 10530 4.787 5.33

6 30.23 7.63 0.90 10490 4.771 5.31

Average 30.3 7.8 1.0 8963.5 4.1 4.5


6.6 SOCIAL ENVIRONMENT

Kudavillingili is located in North Male’ Atoll just north of Thulusdhoo, which is also the the capital of North and South Male’ Atoll, collectively known as Kaafu Atoll for administrative purposes. Kaafu Atoll consists of 10 inhabited islands (including Male’), and 43 resorts. Kudavillingili is approximately 25 km north east of Hulhule International Airport, which is also located in Kaafu atoll. Nearest inhabited islands to Kudavillingili are Thulusdhoo (the capital of the atoll) on the south west of the island and Dhiffushi on the north of the island at approximate distances of 1.8 km and 9.3 km respectively. Thulusdhoo and Kudavillingili are separated by a channel on the south of Kudavillingili while Dhiffushi and Kudavillingili share the same reef system. The nearest resort to Kudavillingili is Gasfinolhu Island Resort, approximately 4.1 km south-west of the island.

The population of Kaafu Atoll (excluding Male’ and the resorts/industrial islands) is 10,149, while the population of Thulusdhoo is 1,148, among them 594 are men and 554 are women (Census, 2006). According to results of the Census 2006, 39% of the population of Thulusdhoo was under 18 years of age (Figure 58).

Figure 58 Population of inhabited islands in Kaafu Atoll by broad age group (Census 2006, Image taken from DNP website)

44% of the reported population were employed with the majority (24% of employed population) being engaged in work related to the Manufacturing Industry (Figure 59). The presence of the MWSC bottling factory and the Soft drinks bottling factory on the island contributes to this factor. Employment in the Administrative and Public defense sector and fishing industry were 21% and 10% (of the employed population) respectively. Although tourism related activities do not show prominently in the statistics, there are 3 operational guest houses on the island, which especially target surfers.


Figure 59 Employment numbers in Thulusdhoo, for various sectors

6.7 HAZARD VULNERABILITY, AREA VULNERABLE TO FLOODING AND STORM SURGE

Hazard vulnerability of Kudavillingili is assessed based on the literature available and field data collection. The report prepared by UNDP on disaster risk assessment of Maldives states that the region which hosts Kudavillingili falls in to high risk category (category 5) in terms of tsunami risk (Figure 60).

Figure 60 Tsunami hazard zones, category 5 is the highest risk zone while 1 is the lowest (figure derived from UNDP report on Disaster risk profile for Maldives November 2006)

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Hazardous weather systems, other than general monsoons (heavy rain and strong winds) that affect Maldives are tropical storms (tropical cyclone) and severe local storms (thunder storms/thunder squalls). Tropical cyclones are extreme weather events with positive and negative consequences. At times, these are very destructive due to associated strong winds (often exceeding 150 kmph), heavy rainfall (often exceeding 30 to 40 cm in 24 hours) and storm tides (often exceeding 4 to 5 meters). Strong winds can damage structures, houses, communication systems, roads, bridges and vegetation. Heavy rainfall can cause serious flooding. Storm surge is a sudden rise of sea level elevation along the coast caused by cyclonic winds. Sea level also rises twice daily due to astronomical reasons. The combined effect of surge and tide is knows as storm tide. Storm tides can cause catastrophic results in low lying areas, flat coast and island territories such as Maldives.

Islands of Maldives are also affected by severe local storms (thunder storms/thunder squalls). Hazards associated with thunderstorms are strong winds (often exceeding 100kmph), heavy rainfall, lightning and hail. They give birth to tornadoes in some regions (other than equatorial regions). In general thunderstorms are more frequent in equatorial regions compared to other areas. Land areas get more thunder storms compared to open ocean areas. However, thunderstorms close to the equator are less violent compared to those of other parts of tropics and extra-tropics. Maldives being close to the equator, thunderstorms are quite frequent here but are less violent. Strong winds generated by severe local storms consequently generate larger wind driven waves, which are hazardous to the islands of the Maldives.

Figure 61 Track of severe storms affecting the Maldives during 1877-2004

Kudavillingili falls in to category 4, which is the second highest scale given in the risk assessment of cyclones or storms (see Figure 62). The major zones affected are the mid and northern parts of the Maldives.


Figure 62 Cyclone Hazard Zoning (figure derived from UNDP report on Disaster risk profile for Maldives November 2006)

Bathymetry around Maldives shows that the ocean slope close to east coast is steep compared to the same on the west coast. This led us to conclude that eastern islands of Maldives are vulnerable to higher surge hazard compared to western islands. Kudavillingili region falls in to zone 3 (moderate risk zone) of the surge hazard zoning categories (Figure 63).


Figure 63 Surge Hazard Zones (figure derived from UNDP report on Disaster risk profile for Maldives November 2006)

Based on these findings, Kudavillingili has probability of high impact due to tsunami, storm surge and cyclones. Therefore proper mitigation procedures should be in place (disaster management program) which should enable the island to sustain in the event of unpredictable environmental disasters.


7 PUBLIC CONSULTATION

Public consultation with regard to the proposed development was carried out either as formal meetings or telephone conversations. Meetings held during scoping process were with relevant government agencies, MTAC and MHE, in regard to the development. A list of stakeholders consulted is given in Appendix 6.

The purpose of the consultation meetings were to identify if there are any issues or concerns regarding the development of a tourist resort at Kudavillingili. Personnel from Thulhusdhoo Island Council were consulted. In general all personnel interviewed had positive views with regard to resort development at Kudavillingili.

7.1 THULUSDHOO ISLAND COUNCIL

Personnel interviewed from Thulusdhoo Island Council had positive views of the resort development at Kudavillingili. The president of Island Council stated that the proposed project will have positive economic benefits to the community in terms of job opportunities and excursion trips. The Councilor also stated that at present a number of young people from the island already work in the tourism industry; therefore they will be keen to work at Kudavilligili due to close proximity to Thulusdhoo. The councilor further stated that construction groups or companies on the island will also benefit from the project. Overall, all members of the Island Council were in consent of the development project, especially due to its inevitable economic benefits.

7.2 GOVERNMENT AGENCIES

In accordance to the EIA regulations, a scoping application form was sent to the Environment Protection Agency. The scoping meeting for the project was held at EPA, and a ToR was finalized during the meeting. As the EIA regulations stipulates, the ToR outlines the project and specific details that have to be included in the EIA report. EPA stated that particular attention should be given to reclamation work to be undertaken during this project. As stated in the tourism regulation all documentation in relation to resort development including concept plans, structural and architectural drawings and EIA related documentation are handled by MTCA.

Consultation with Ministry of Fisheries and Agriculture was not carried out for the purpose of this EIA since transporting vegetation from other islands or landscaping components are not yet finalized. A separate document will be prepared for this component. During this process consultation will be carried out with Ministry of Fisheries and Agriculture.


8 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS

8.1 IMPACT IDENTIFICATION

Impacts on the environment from various activities of the resort development work (constructional impacts) and operation of the resort (operational impacts) have been identified through interviews with the project management team, field data collection surveys and based on past experience in similar development projects.

Possible impacts arising from the resort development 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 into intensity of impacts (negligible, minor, moderate and major) for identifying best possible remedial (mitigation measures) actions to be taken. Below (Table 25) are the impact categories:

Table 25 Categorized scale of impact prediction

Impact category Description Reversible/

irreversible Cumulative impacts

Negligible The impact has no significant risk to environment either short term or long term

Reversible No

Minor The impact is short term and cause very limited risk to the environment

Reversible No

Moderate

Impacts give rise to some concern, may cause long term environmental problems but are likely short term and acceptable

Reversible May or may not

Major The impact is long term, large scale environmental risk

Reversible and Irreversible

Yes, mitigation measures have to be addressed

The proposed project involves reclamation of land north of Kudavillingili. Approximately 1.4km by 0.41km land will be reclaimed. The burrow site is located at the southern end of the larger deep lagoon. Area of vegetation clearance at Kudavillingili is approximately 5230m2 which accounts to 9% of total land area inside the vegetation line. In terms of reef area, impact area is less than 1% of the total reef area.

The severity of impacts is predicted by reviewing the design plans and construction methodologies. Mitigation measures are formulated in light of the information revealed


by the project engineers (vegetation clearance method, piling method, excavation method and equipment or machinery used).

8.2 LIMITATION OR UNCERTAINTY OF IMPACT PREDICTION

Uncertainty of impact prediction are mainly due to the lack of long term data (shoreline, local currents and wave climate), inherent complexity of ecosystem (reef environment, habitat and terrestrial environment although to a lesser extent) and lack of coordinated monitoring programs with consistent methodologies which can be used to predict outcomes or reliability of predictions of previous projects.

The impacts are predicted by reviewing the survey data collected during the field visits and information revealed by the designers and engineers. The data collected during the field visit is limited in terms of number of days to a week or few more, which limits the overall understanding of even the short term environmental conditions (wave condition, currents, and littoral movement).

The time limitation of EIA field data collection and report preparation is also a hindrance to properly understanding the environmental factors dictating the conditions of the habitat.

8.3 CONSTRUCTIONAL IMPACTS

In any development project major direct impacts to the environment (either short term or long term) occur mainly during the construction phase. Potential direct or indirect impacts on the environment (on land and reef system) from the proposed works include:

Possible impacts from excessive sedimentation on the reef by reclamation works (burrow area and reclamation area).

Direct loss of habitat and disturbance to the lagoon bottom and reef flat area by dredging and pilling works at the water bungalow construction areas

Direct loss of habitat and disturbance to the lagoon bottom by footing clearance for pilling works for the over water structures.

Construction debris blown away by wind or spillage during transportation on to the reef or lagoon (initially material unloaded using barge, but after completion of dredging works, the material will be unloaded at the reclaimed land).

Loss of vegetation due to vegetation clearance to create space for new constructions (Kudavillingili proper).

Ground water contamination by digging trenches or dewatering for placing foundations of buildings


Ground water contamination due to possible spillage of fuel or other hazardous chemicals (Kudavillingili proper).

8.3.1 COASTAL STRUCTURES

The major coastal structures constructed at Kudavillingili are water bungalows, access jetties, specialty restaurants, spa treatment rooms, beaches (newly replenished or created) and the marina. The structural support for the over water structures at the eastern side are concrete piles. Construction of over water structures will have minimum or minor impact on the surrounding environment, compared to impacts which arise from reclamation works. Impacts envisaged are sedimentation impact due to clearance of footing area by excavators and direct physical impact by either trampling by workers or excavator.

Trampling by excavator operation at the eastern side water bungalow area may have some impact on the benthic habitat, but this is envisaged to be short termed. Since the area is dominated by rubble and sand, negligible impact is envisaged on live coral.

8.3.2 CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS AND WASTE

Transportation of construction materials such as cement, aggregate and sand to the site has the potential to aesthetically damage the marine environment especially the lagoon areas due to accidental spillage (during the construction of over water structures, reclamation works and coastal protection structures). Quite often construction wastes make their way into the marine environment during the course of their disposal unless necessary measures are taken to prevent this from happening. Pollution of the lagoon and reef system can be caused by water borne and windblown debris (empty cement bags, polythene bags, packing material and other light weight plastics) escaping from construction site or from transportation vessels such as barges and large cargo vessels.

Wastes and residues arising from construction activities such as oil spills, concrete hardening chemicals and other waste may affect terrestrial environment and groundwater. Dumping of construction related debris or remains of earth works or temporary waste mounds on or near vegetation zones could damage or kill vegetation in the area. Haphazard dumping of waste could destroy several habitats and microhabitats that are crucial for the dynamic island environment. Approximately 20% of construction work will be carried out at Kudavillingili proper while the rest will be on reclaimed land.


8.3.3 MOBILIZATION OF EQUIPMENT AND LABOUR

Heavy machinery, equipment and materials will be transported to the island using barges and heavy cargo dhonis. During the initial phase material will be unloaded at the western side of Kudavillingili by beaching landing crafts. After completion of reclamation work material will be unloaded at the reclaimed land via temporary jetty. Mobilization of heavy machinery and equipment such and barges to the site has the potential to physically damage some areas of the reef (coral/rock outcrops at the deep lagoon). Increased activities of larger vessels (like heavy cargo dhonis) to supply the construction materials will also have direct and indirect impacts due to;

Anchoring and mooring near and at the make shift jetty Accidental spillage of construction materials Accidental oil spills Wake of the propellers might break fragile table corals present in the area

Influx of workers and labours to the island would inevitably have negative impacts on the terrestrial environment by possible introduction of pest and improper disposal of solid waste. Disposal of hazardous waste and sewage may be a concern if not appropriately dealt with. If proper attention is not paid such a large number of workers in the island could easily disturb the island fauna.

8.3.4 VEGETATION CLEARANCE AND IMPACTS ON TERRESTRIAL FAUNA

The vegetation on the south eastern side of Kudavillingili is composed of shrubs and iron wood trees. Vegetation clearance at this area will be at identified surf villa and surf bar areas. Vegetation clearance at the eastern side is at beach villa areas. Vegetation at this area is composed of Sea hibiscus trees, Tulip trees and coconut palms. Since 80% of development will be on reclaimed land, all vegetation removed during clearance work will be replanted on the reclaimed land. Therefore impact on vegetation at Kudavillingili is envisaged to be minor to moderate. During the landscaping of the reclaimed land; trees from other islands will also be used. A separate document will be prepared for this component since at the time of report preparation, details of this component were not available.

8.3.5 EFFECTS ON GROUNDWATER QUALITY

During construction phase of the project, dewatering of building sites will be carried out for placement of foundations and other structural components. This might contribute to localized exhaustion of water lens in the area. In some of the resort development projects ground water is used for construction works, which in combination with dewatering will have significant short term impacts on the ground


water quality. The current proposed project will be using desalinated water for all construction purposes on the island. Water will be generated by temporary desalination plants installed early during the temporary setup on the island. The Engineering building will be constructed in the early stages of the construction, and once the power house and water plants are installed all water requirements will be met by the main water production facility.

The two storey buildings proposed as part of the development project will be located at the reclaimed land area, therefore impacts due to dewatering is not envisaged. Only single storey buildings will be constructed at Kudavillingili proper.

8.3.6 SEAWATER QUALITY AND SEDIMENTATION IMPACTS

A major impact on seawater quality due to the proposed project is due to the large scale reclamation works. Under the proposed project 30ha of land will be reclaimed. The burrow site will be located at the southern end of the larger deep lagoon of the reef system. The burrow site is approximately 600m by 330m with an area of 158,000m2. A cutter suction dredger will be used for dredging the burrow site to -6MSL to attain dredged material required for the reclamation. Initially a bund will be reclaimed around the perimeter of the reclamation area and afterwards “rainbowing” of dredged material will be commenced. Since a bund wall is reclaimed around the perimeter of the reclamation area, sedimentation impacts will be less compared to what it would be if work is carried out without a bund wall.

Beach creation works at the newly reclaimed area will also cause sedimentation impacts. During the beach creation works approximately 30% of sediment will be lost during spreading. This volume of sediment will be washed away with current or wave action. The dominant wave or current at the eastern side is east to west therefore the sediment suspended at the eastern side will be transported westwards along the reclaimed shoreline and towards the deep lagoon. Speed of sediment plume is expected to be reduced in the deep lagoon areas since current speed will also be reduced in this area.

The northern tip of the reclaimed land is designed without any coastal stabilizing structures; therefore this area is envisaged to experience erosion. This could possibly cause significant impacts on the live coral in the area, due to prolonged suspension of fines. This impact is envisaged to be long termed and significant as a result of the current design.

Major impact due to the dredging work is sedimentation of fines due to re-suspension during high and mid tide. High levels of sedimentation and silt from re-suspension is a major source of reef degradation. It is often the smaller corals and corals that exhibit laminar growth forms (acropora table corals) that are more vulnerable to extended sedimentation. Fine sediments with rapid rate of deposition are detrimental to certain


corals especially the tabulate forms of corals. Such sediments blocks the coral polyps from feeding and the lack of nutrition and other physiological stress such as restricted respiration eventually starves and suffocate the corals leading to death. Finely deposited sediments are often difficult to remove even with strong currents. The consequences of excessive sedimentation on corals are well known and include:

direct physical impacts like smothering of corals and other benthic reef organisms, 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, characterized 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 into the

sediments

8.3.7 AIR AND NOISE POLLUTION

Operation of heavy machinery and construction related equipment will contribute to noise pollution. Noise pollution during the construction works will be mainly due to the operation of excavators, trucks and concrete machines.

Air pollution due to the project will be mainly due to operation of heavy machinery. burning of waste and boat operations. Heavy machinery and equipments used during construction phase that can cause air pollution are;

Excavators Dredger Dumper Flat barge Diesel generators, pumps Trucks Incinerators Concrete machines Cargo vessels and other vessels operated during construction phase

8.3.8 SOCIAL IMPACTS

Social impacts from the proposed project are envisaged to be positive, in terms of job opportunities and other income generating avenues (such as market for agricultural products and fish). During the construction stage of the project locals from the nearby islands will be hired for the vegetation clearance works and other temporary set up works. Although it has to be noted that during major construction works, mostly


foreigners are involved and very few locals hired. This may be due to lack of locals or due to contractors (most contractors use foreign labour).

8.4 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 islands geography, marine and terrestrial flora and fauna. Below are some of the possible impacts:

Solid waste generated by the restaurant, kitchen and other service facilities Brine disposal to the harbour basin (hyper saline brine from the desalination plant

at the western side deep lagoon) Sewage and waste water disposal (major portion of grey water will be treated and

used for flushing and gardening, emergency outfall located at the southern side) Ground water contamination from possible oil spills or mishandling of oil and other

chemicals (fuel farm will be located at reclaimed land) Ground water contamination and nutrient leaching due to use of treated water for

irrigation. Impacts from snorkeling or diving activity on the reef (including water sports

activities) Air quality degradation by burning green waste and other burnable waste Damage to live coral due to excessive use of the lagoon (eastern side back reef) Possible sedimentation impact from sand dispersed from the new beach due to

hydrodynamic condition (northern tip area where groyne segment is not proposed).

8.4.1 SEWAGE AND WASTEWATER DISPOSAL

Improper design or leaks in the sewerage system can lead to serious impacts on the ground water quality and as a result to the islands vegetation and reef (by leaching of nutrients). Ground water pollution due to improper disposal of sewage has been observed in islands across the Maldives, in some cases foul smells rising from the manholes or collection tanks. Leaking sewerage lines and septic tanks can create accumulative pollution of the soil, enabling sewage to go septic in time.

8.4.2 WASTE DISPOSAL

Solid waste is a major problem in any country, improper handling or mismanagement can cause serious impact on the environment and public safety. Tourist resorts


normally produce a lot of waste; this is due to the luxurious nature of its operations. The current Tourism Law defines strict rules for waste management in resorts.

One of the main steps towards managing waste is incineration. Although incinerators dispose solid waste, it has to be noted that incineration can also generate toxic substances, due to incomplete combustion (mainly due to operation at low temperatures).

A number of service and guest outlets can create solid waste and these include:

Plastic bottles, tin cans, glass bottles from the kitchen, bar and restaurant Paper bags, plastic bags or polythene bags from administrative departments and

house cleaning Green waste from gardening and landscaping or cleaning Organic waste from the kitchen and restaurants Scrap metal and wooden boxes from stores

Since metal cans or tin cans cannot be incinerated compactors will be installed on the island. According to the Tourism Law each resort island should have an incinerator and a compactor. Metal and tin cans will be compacted and stored in the island, and later sent to local disposal site. Glass crusher also will be installed on the island.

Table 26 Estimated waste production at K. Kudavillingili during the operational phase (quantity values estimated using information at Ellaidhoo, Velavaru and Filitheyo, which in the sense is similar to Kudavillingili)

Products and waste materials

Anticipated quantities

Method of disposal

Potable water bottles 6,000 bottles/month

Sent to local disposal site/ recycled (sent abroad)

Non-potable water (plantation, gardening, landscaping, etc)

50,000 litres Recharge the aquifer

Sewage and wastewater 300,000 litres/day Treated wastewater reuse and excess pumped to sea, bio-degradable chemicals Grey water/laundry

wastewater General/domestic waste 90 kgs/day Combustibles: incinerated

Others: Sent to local disposal sites assigned by the authorities

Food and kitchen waste 500 kgs/day Bio-degradable: deep sea disposal, Non-biodegradable: incinerated

Waste oil and grease 300 litres/month Incinerated or may be reused by local people

Scrap metal/cans/plastics 30 kgs/day May be reused by dhoni operators as sealants

Paper and cardboard 50 boxes/day Incinerated


Glass and glass bottles 30 bottles/day* Crushed and sent to local disposal site or deep sea disposal

Hazardous waste 500 litres/month Barreled and sent to Thilafushi

Garden wastes 10 kgs/day Composted on site and used as fertilizer

* Most of the glass bottles will be re exported to supplier for recycling.

8.4.3 POWER GENERATION

In the absence of alternative energy sources, fossil fuel is heavily depended upon in the Maldives. Energy generation using fossil fuels have the potential to produce environmental changes that may give rise to direct or indirect adverse effects on human health (particulate matter, poisonous gases...etc). Table 27 illustrates a summary of short-term and long-term effects of these effluents and the level of risk, based on the emission levels. The extent of effects varies considerably according to the energy source and the following important factors:

The amount of pollutant released and the height at which it is released (exhaust pipes, might release sulphur compounds or carbon monoxide)

The atmospheric conditions leading to dilution and dispersal of the pollutant The distance from the source Maintenance Design and installation of generators and generator houses (sound pollution)

Table 27 Environmental and health risks of emissions (Sources: Association 2010; Jackson 1997; Stafford 2009; Clean Air 2001; Defense 2002)

EFFLUENTS RISK RISK LEVEL

HEALTH ENVIRONMENT

Unburned Hydrocarbons

Displace oxygen in the air and can cause symptoms of oxygen deprivation

Methane is 21 times more powerful greenhouse gas than CO2

Short term

Medium

NOx Causes respiratory problems such as asthma, emphysema and bronchitis

Aggravates existing heart disease

Combines with particles to reduce visibility

Component in ground-level ozone and smog

Short term

High

Premature death Greenhouse gas that Long Medium


Damage to lung tissue contributes to global warming and climate change

Contributes to acid rain

term

Carbon Monoxide Carbon Monoxide poisoning It is both a GHG and ODS Short term

Low

Carbon monoxide can affect: memory, brain function, behavior, cognition.

Long term

Low

Particulate Matter Aggravated asthma

Acute respiratory symptoms, including aggravated coughing and difficult or painful breathing;

Reduce Visibility

Airborne particles can also cause soiling and damage to materials

Short term

High

Chronic bronchitis

Premature death

Long term

Medium

SOx Linked to wheezing, chest tightness and shortness of breath

Damages some vegetation in combination with ozone

Short term

Low

Aid respiratory problems such as asthma, emphysema and bronchitis

Aggravates existing heart disease

Contributes to acid rain Long Term

Low

A synchronized diesel power plant with total capacity of 3500kVA that automatically changes the load according to the usage requirement of the operation will be installed to meet the energy demand of Kudavillingili resort. Four generator sets will be installed in the power plant, three 1000kVA each and one 500kVA backup generator. A small-scale installation such as this would meet all international emission standards since larger scale installations such as that in Malé meet appropriate emission standards.

Improper or faulty design and installation of power houses could result in increased occupational health hazards to the power house staff. Inadequate sound proofing may increase the noise level of the surrounding area, which in the long term could cause health problems to the staff. Poor handling and management of diesel and other fuel has, in many resorts, often lead to contamination of the aquifer. Poor handling and management can also risk serious fire hazards and cause property damage and loss of life.


8.4.4 WATER PRODUCTION AND BRINE DISPOSAL

Tourism Law states that ground water cannot be used for any purpose during either the resort construction phase or operation phase. Total of three plants (two of capacity 250ton/day each and one 150ton/day) of total capacity 650tons per day will be installed at the BoH area on the island.

Feed water for the RO plants will be met by bore wells (2 bore wells) of depth 50m. The bore wells will be located at the reclaimed land; therefore impact to water lens will be minor to insignificant.

The brine outlet of the desalination plant will be located at the western side of the island at the deep lagoon. Discharging brine on to the reef or lagoon can cause coral bleaching or in some instances coral mortality.

8.4.5 FERTILIZERS AND PESTICIDES

No inorganic fertilizers will be imported for landscaping and gardening purpose at Kudavillingili resort. Locally made compost and organic fertilizers will be used instead. Use of chemicals such as pesticides may be of concern (can pollute ground water or may leach in to the marine environment); therefore its use should be managed properly. The resort would require use of insecticides (for mosquitoes) and pesticides (for rodents). But priority will be given to use rat cages or other conventional methods to control or eradicate rat populations.

8.4.6 DIVING AND SNORKELLING AND OTHER MARINE RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES

Reef at Kudavillingili, especially on the eastern and western sides of the island, has quite a number of features that would attract snorkelers and divers. The reef on the western side has good live coral cover and abundant fish life which would attract divers and snorkelers (deep lagoon rock/coral patches). The south eastern corner of Kudavillingili is a renowned surf spot along with the adjacent Thulusdhoo north eastern corner. Therefore usage of these areas will increase (these two surf spots are visited by many safaris during the surfing season).

Impacts from excessive usage of reefs for recreational activities include damage to live coral, by either direct physical damage or indirect damage. Direct physical damage includes trampling or handling of live coral causing breakage. Indirect impacts includes sedimentation (fin stroke induced) which may have short term impacts. Damage due to surfers is very little known. It is very unlikely that surfing activity will cause significant impacts since they normally uses the reef slope area (which is deep).


Sometimes surfers access to surfing points by walking on the reef rather than taking a vessels (commonly done at Thulusdhoo); in which case there is possibility of trampling impacts.

8.4.7 POSSIBLE EROSION AT THE NEWLY CREATED BEACHE AT THE NORTHERN SIDE

The proposed design lacks coastal protection measures at the northern tip of the reclaimed land. The designers required a large beach at this area similar to that on a natural island. The modified hydrodynamic condition envisaged due to this beach creation is increased current speeds at the northern tip area due increased catchment area (water body south of northern tip margin). This area will be prone to erosion without adequate beach stabilizing measures (Figure 64); which in turn will cause sedimentation impacts on the coral/rock patches in the deep lagoons. Extent of sedimentation is envisaged to be limited to the deep lagoon areas while severity of erosion will be increased during the NE monsoon. Therefore addition of beach stabilizing measures will be required at this area.

Figure 64 Schematic diagram showing erosion prone area (red circle) and possible sediment plume direction (black arrows).

Envisaged sediment plume direction


9 ALTERNATIVES

Considering the alternatives for the project in terms of location, type of economic activity to be carried out has been decided by the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture. The Supreme Court ruling stated the area of land to be provided to Yacht Tours Maldives Pvt Ltd in regarding compensation to Biyaadhoo. Therefore extent of reclamation is not discussed.

Apart from the type of economic activity and location other aspects that can have alternative are;

Construction method of over water structures Location of over water structures Sewage treatment method Feed water intake method, outfall and brine discharge pipes Beach creation works Reclamation method

9.1 CONSIDERED ALTERNATIVES

9.1.1 CONSTRUCTION OF OVER WATER STRUCTURES

Three methods and type of material are discussed for construction of over water structures

The proposed method of construction of over water structures is by building on piers or piles. The type of piles selected for the development is pre caste RC piers with footing.

Alternative 1 Spun piles. Spun pile is a pre-stressed concrete pile that can be used without a footing for support.

Alternative 2 Timber piles. This method is very similar to the concrete piles, but require cross beam connection for stabilizing (joist).

9.1.2 LOCATION OF OVER WATER STRUCTURES

The major over water structures are the water bungalows that are located at the north eastern side of proposed reclaimed land. The proposed marina is located at the western side of the proposed reclaimed land at the deep lagoon area. The arrival jetty is connected to the main walkway shared with marina walkway. Below are alternative locations that are considered;


The proposed location of the water bungalows are north eastern side of proposed reclaimed land

Alternative 1 Placing all water bungalows in one stretch at the western side of the island.

The proposed location of the arrival jetty is at the western side connected to walkway of marina

Alternative 1 Arrival jetty located at the western side separate from marina walkway

9.1.3 SEWAGE TREATMENT METHOD

The STP proposed for Kudavillingili is a tertiary treatment plant. The effluent will be treated and used for toilet flushing and irrigation. Below are alternative methods considered;

Proposed method, Sequential Batch Reactor method (SBR). Alternative 1, Activated Sludge method

9.1.4 FEED WATER INTAKE, OUTFALL AND BRINE DISCHARGE PIPE LOCATION

The proposed method of collecting feed water for the RO plant is by borewells (proposed at BoH at reclaimed land); while effluent (in emergency) and excess brine is discharged using pipes (Figure 54). Below are alternatives considered; in terms of method and location;

Proposed method of feed water intake: bore well Alternative 1, feed water intake from western side deep lagoon

Proposed location of brine discharge pipe is western side of the island, run along the arrival jetty and into deep lagoon

Alternative location combined with STP emergency out fall and disposed at the southern side of the island.

Proposed location of STP outfall is southern side of the reef, along the lagoon and run to a depth of -15m at the reef slope.


Alternative location of STP outfall is eastern side of the reef, along the lagoon and run to a depth of -15m at the reef slope

Figure 65 Proposed locations and alternative locations of feed water pipe, brine outlet and emergency outfall

9.1.5 METHOD OF BEACH CREATION AND BEACH FILLING WORKS

The proposed method of beach creation is by back filling filtered dredged material at the reclaimed shoreline. Prior to completion of reclamation groyne field will be constructed. In this section alternatives are discussed for northern tip area of the reclaimed land, since this area was identified as an erosion prone area in the impact evaluation process (Chapter 8).

Proposed method Sand spit shape reclaimed land and beach creation Alternative 1, construction of two shore parallel groynes to avoid loss of dredged

material or land due to current action at the tip area (bay and headland concept)

9.1.6 METHOD OF DREDGDING

Proposed method The reclamation works will be carried out using a cutter suction dredger.

Alternative feed water pipe locationProposed brine discharge pipe location

Bore well proposed feed water intake

Alternative brine disharge (connected to STP outfall)

Alternative STP outfall

Proposed STP outfall


Alternative 1, use of excavator for reclamation Alternative 2, use of sand pumps

Proposed location of burrow area is the south eastern end of larger deep lagoon at the reef system

Alternative 1, smaller deep lagoon area in front of Kudavillingili

9.1.7 LOCATION OF BURROW AREA

Proposed area The proposed burrow area is located at the southern end of larger deep lagoon at the Dhiffushi falhu (eastern side)

Alternative 1, narrow strip between larger and smaller deep lagoons Alternative 2, deep lagoon in front of Kudavillingili

9.1.8 THE NO-PROJECT SCENARIO

Apart from these alternatives, the “do nothing” option would mean a loss of potential economical activity and no impact on the marine and terrestrial environment of Kudavillingili and reef system. The proposed project involves large scale reclamation works as part of increasing land of Kudavillingili to attain required 30ha of land. If this is to be the case moderate to major impacts are envisaged on the marine environment.

The proposed development is thought to pose moderate impact to the environment, although at the operational stage in the event malfunctioning of the SBR or any other facility (for example fuel storage) may cause significant impact to the marine and terrestrial environment, but proper management these uncertainties can be overcome.

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 but with a economical loss (direct and indirect benefit to government revenue and economic well being of local populations in terms additional income sources and job opportunities).


9.2 SELECTED ALTERNATIVES

9.2.1 SELECTED METHOD OF CONSTRUCTION OF OVER WATER STRUCTURES

The proposed method of construction of over water structures is by building on piers or piles. The type of piles selected for the development is pre caste RC piers with footing. Drawback of this type is possible scouring at the base of the footing causing the piles to sink, making the structures unstable. To counter this most of the corner piles are additionally strengthened by driving angle section piles. Alternative to this is spun piles. Spun pile is a pre-stressed concrete pile that can be used without a footing for support. The drawback of this method is the requirement of specialized machinery for driving the piles to lagoon bottom. In this method a modified excavator with driving machinery is used for driving the piles. The depth of penetration is around 2-3m.

Another alternative is building on timber piles. This method is very similar to the concrete piles, but require cross beam connection for stabilizing (joist). Considering the three alternatives, the spun pile method is much costly and is used only at two or three projects at Maldives, in contrast to concrete pile and timber piles are tested and used throughout the tourism industry. Therefore the proposed method is selected.

9.2.2 SELECTED LOCATION OF OVER WATER STRUCTURES

The near shore areas at Kudavillingili are composed of sandy lagoons. Live coral is observed at the deep lagoon (coral/rock patches) and back reef area at eastern side. Therefore in terms of environmental impacts, location of over water structures at proposed location is feasible. The marine is located at the deep lagoon area to avoid dredging at this area. The pier head of the marina will be constructed at the edge of deep lagoon with pile. Therefore excavation will not be required at this area.

The water bungalows are proposed at the north eastern side. The main reason for this is to avoid the burrow area. Initially the water bungalows were located at the northern tip area. But this location was thought too close to the burrow area therefore relocated to proposed site. The alternative location at the western side is also feasible. But it has to be noted that distance from new shoreline and deep lagoon is too narrow to place all the water bungalows in one string. Also placing the water bungalows at this area will obstruct view of land villas at this area. In terms of environmental impacts the new modified shoreline has coastal stabilizing measures (groynes) therefore impact of change in hydrodynamic condition is thought minor. Therefore the proposed location is selected.


9.2.3 SELECTED SEWAGE TREATMENT METHOD

The proposed method of sewage treatment is by sequential batch reactor method (SBR). The proposed method has a receiving quality of BOD5 300mg/l, COD 500mg/L, Total Suspended Solids (TSS) 450mg/L and pH 5. The treated effluent is of quality BOD5 20mg/L, COD 100mg/L, TSS 30mg/L and pH 6-8.5. The effluent is further treated and used for flushing and irrigation, while the sludge is dried and treated and used as fertilizer.

Considering alternatives the activated sludge method is also a reliable method with inputs of 250 pm BOD5, 8 ph, 430 ppm COD, 500 ppm TDS, oil and greases 90ppm. The effluent will be in two parts, BOD5 below 30 ppm, COD below 250 ppm and TDS between 120 -150 ppm, with oils below 10 ppm. It is intended to discharge this deep sea. The second part will be further treated to BOD5 below 10 ppm, TDS below 100 ppm for reuse for toilet flushing and garden irrigation.

Considering alternatives both systems are very reliable and commonly used in the Maldives and Sri Lanka. Both systems have the ability to further treat the effluent enabling for use of toilet flushing and irrigation. The main reason for selecting the SBR method is ease of maintenance and operation, although this system is a little more expensive than the activated sludge type.

9.2.4 SELECTED LOCATION AND METHOD OF FEED WATER INTAKE, OUTFALL AND BRINE DISCHARGE PIPE

The proposed intake for feed water is via bore wells, alternative is laying pipe to western side deep lagoon to extract seawater. Considering the options, laying pipe line and extracting is cheaper compared to bore well. Although this maybe the case bore well option is better during operational stage (low maintenance and reduce pressure on membranes).

In terms of both options environmental impacts are minor. Since bore wells will be constructed at the reclaimed land to a depth of 50m; no impact is envisaged on ground water (Kudavilligili proper). In contrast feed water intake pipe (alternative) will be run across the Kudavillingili proper at the northern tip area; which may cause groundwater contamination by possible damage to pipe line (during operational stage). Overall both options are feasible, but due low maintenance during operational stage the bore well option is selected.

The proposed brine discharge is at the western side run along to the arrival jetty to deep lagoon. Alternative option is by combining with STP outfall pipe and discharging at the southern side. Considering both options; both options are feasible. Live coral cover near the arrival jetty (only few coral/rock patches observed at the area) is low; therefore impact due to brine discharge is thought to be minor. Considering the option


of combining the brine and STP effluent (treated water); the salinity of brine will be reduced which in turn is a positive effect. Therefore the option of combining the brine and STP effluent is selected (brine and STP treated water discharged at the southern side channel).

The proposed location of emergency outfall is at the southern side of the island at the channel between Thulusdhoo and Kudavillingili. Alternative location is the eastern side of the reef at the outer atoll side. Considering both options, strong current is observed at both areas therefore adequate flushing will be attained. If the eastern side is selected; maintenance requirement of the pipe line will be high compared to southern side since eastern side will receive oceanic swells. Also it has to be noted that eastern is close to the corner area at the reef therefore more wave action is envisaged. In contrast the southern side will receive less wave energy therefore impact on pipe line will be low. Therefore the southern side is selected for laying the STP emergency outfall (the pipe line will run along the lagoon and down the reef slope to depth no less than -15m).

9.2.5 SELECTED METHOD OF BEACH CREATION AND BEACH FILLING WORKS

The proposed design of the northern end is without any beach stabilizing structure therefore it is envisaged that this area will be prone to erosion. The proposed option or design of this area is not feasible. Alternative option bat and head land concept will ensure that erosion is minimized or avoided altogether. Therefore alternative option is feasible in terms of reduced impacts during operational stage to environment (sedimentation impacts associated with erosion). Therefore alternative option is selected.


Figure 66 Proposed alternative design of northern end of the reclaimed land

9.2.6 SELECTED METHOD OF DREDGING

The proposed method of dredging is by using cutter-suction dredger. Alternative is use of excavators. Initially excavators will be used for reclaiming the peripheral line of the reclamation area.

Considering both options, use of excavator for reclaiming the proposed land will take more than 2 years to complete, therefore sustained sedimentation impacts are envisaged. The use of cutter suction dredger will finish the same work within maximum of 6-7months. Therefore in comparison to excavators dredger will have less impact on environment. Also if excavators are used the burrow area has to be increase due to depth limit of excavators. Advantage of cutter suction dredger is eliminating the need for blasting should hard substrate is encountered.

9.2.7 LOCATON OF BURROW AREA

The proposed burrow area is located at the southern end of the larger deep lagoon on eastern side (Figure 67). The alternative sites are shallow strip between the two deep lagoons and deep lagoon area near Kudavillingili. Considering the 2 option; the deep

Bay and head land concept with shore parallel groynes

Existing design of northern side


lagoon area has a depth of -7m at average. If this option is selected it is possible that burrow area needs to be extended beyond the demarcation given in Figure 67. Also direct physical impacts are envisaged on the rock/coral outcrops at the area. Therefore with option is not feasible.

The option 1; burrowing at the shallow strip between the two deep lagoons may not yield sufficient volume of dredged material. If this area is selected; sediment plume associated with dredging works will reach the western side reef flat.

The proposed burrow area is a sand flat therefore sufficient yield will be attained. Since the burrow area is located at the eastern side of the deep lagoon; sediment plume associated with the dredging will not reach western side. The sediment fines are envisaged to sink at the deep lagoon area due to reduced water current at the deep lagoon. The burrow area is demarcated so that minimum alteration is made to the deep lagoon profile.

Therefore considering reduced sedimentation impacts the practicality; the proposed location of burrow area is selected.

Figure 67 Proposed and alternative burrow areas for reclamation of Kudavillingili

Alternative 2

Alternative 1Proposed location


10 MITIGATION PLAN

There are a number of actions that can be taken to minimize or avoid impacts altogether. 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.

Mitigation measures are discussed for the construction and operational stage of the project. During the construction stage it is important to take measures to minimise generation of construction waste, impacts due to disposal of construction waste may have significant degradation of terrestrial habitat or groundwater quality or reef health. Method of construction also has to be taken in to account for minimise impact. A construction method that has the least impact on terrestrial or marine environment has to be utilized.


Table 28 Possible environmental impacts and mitigation measures for resort development works at K. Kudavillingili P

has

e

Possible Impacts Mitigation measures Location Time frame Impact intensity

Institutional responsibility

Estimated cost (USD)

CO

NSTR

UCTI

ON

PH

ASE

(T

empo

rary

impa

cts)

Littering on terrestrial and marine environment

Littering, accidental disposal and spillage of any construction wastes should be avoided by pre-planning ways of their transportation and unloading at the western side of the island. Careful planning of the work activities can also reduce the amount of waste generated.

Lagoon During construction

Minor to moderate, short term impact

Contractor, resort management (project manager)

N/A (no additional cost)

During piling works at the over water structures, all construction related waste will be collected and sent to the waste management site. Burnable waste will be incinerated rest sent to local disposal site

Lagoon During construction/operational phases

Minor Contractor, resort management (project manager)

Included in the initial cost of project

Damage to reef by unloading works

Awareness raising of project managers on environmentally friendly practices to minimize negative impacts at the temporary

Temporary access area and land

During construction

Minor, short term impact

Contractor, N/A


access jetty area

Only materials required for temporary set up mobilized initially, rest of material sent after completion of reclamation work

On land During construction

Minor Contractor N/A (may cost more for the material unloading process)

Sedimentation and siltation on the reef and lagoon

Operation of heavy machinery only in the low tide (reclamation work, back filling, beach creation works and pilling works)

Bund wall around area to minimize effect of sedimentation

Silt screen installed along the western side of the proposed reclamation area (to 2m depth, at the deep lagoon area to further limit the spread of sediment plume and associated sedimentation impact.

Lagoon

Reef

During construction

During Construction

Major to moderate, short term impact

Positive impact

Contractor, resort management (project manager)

Cost of heavy machinery increase of 20%

Estimated length of silt screen required is 1200m, estimated rate of silt screen is USD 46.00, therefore cost of silt screen is USD 55,200.00


Impact on vegetation

As much as possible avoid felling of large mature trees, vegetation removed replanted on reclaimed area

Mature trees at the proposed building footprints transplanted at the nursery area for use in landscaping (Kudavillingili proper)

On land During construction phase

Minor to moderate impact

Contractor/ resort management

Replantation cost per tree (mature) approximately USD100-150

Utilization of vegetation grown in the nursery,

N/A

Only the sites of building and footpaths will be cleared for construction purposes and removal of scrubs will be limited to the minimum extent required.

N/A

Physical damage to live coral

Avoid operation of heavy machinery out of construction area or boundary (over water structures, marina)

Outfall pipe laying area inspected before laying pipe. Adjust location so that live coral colonies are avoided

Lagoon / reef

During construction

Minor to moderate

Contractor/ resort management

N/A


Ground water contamination

Sanitary toilet system built with a septic tank system initially in the construction phase before all work force is brought to the island

Once the STP is installed septic tank system dismantled and all toilet and kitchens connected to new STP (Initially small set up made at Kudavillingili, main setup will be constructed after reclamation works are completed).

Land During construction

Minor Contractor Approximately USD 10,000.00 (should be included in the contractors agreement)

Sea water contamination, sewage disposal, fuel handling, accidental oil or chemical spillage

Installation of STP, proper management of system (system and routine maintenance)

Reef flat area/ lagoon

During construction/operational phase

Positive impact Contractor, resort management

N/A ( included in the initial project cost)

Construction debris

Oil /chemical handling and management procedures will be made known to all relevant staff, mismanagement will be fined. Regular monitoring of outfall pipes and fuel lines

On reef flat and lagoon

During construction/operational phase

Moderate, minor if appropriate action is taken, short term

resort management

N/A should be included in the initial cost


Reusing the rock debris for filling works (excess rocks or cement blocks)

On land During construction stage

Positive impact

(reusing )

Resort management and Contractor

N/A, may reduce construction cost (material cost)

Air pollution Heavy machine used for piling works and beach creation works operated only during mid to low tide, Minimise use of excavators for all vegetation clearance works.

Air Construction phase

Minor/short termed

Contractor/ resort management.

N/A (may increase labour cost)

Noise pollution Avoid use of heavy machinery during night hours

land Construction phase

Minor/short term

Contractor N/A (same as above)

Solid waste generated at the complex

Glass crusher and compactor installed at the waste management building in the initial phase of construction period. (combustible materials incinerated, glass bottles crushed and sent to local disposal sites, cans compacted and sent to local disposal sites)

On land Operational phase

Minor if proper waste management plans are in place, long term

Resort management

N/A (included in the initial project cost)


OPE

RATI

ON

AL

PH

ASE

(per

man

ent

impa

cts)

Sewage disposal

Solid waste sorted at service outlets and sorted at the waste processing area (garbage management building)

Reef Operational phase

Minor if properly managed, long term, throughout the operation of the complex

Resort management

N/A

Reuse and recycle waste where possible

Reef

On land and reef

Operational phase

Construction/ Operational stage

Minor if properly managed, long term, throughout the operation of the complex

Positive impact

Resort management

Resort management

N/A

Conduct awareness programs for staff and guest, on the need for waste reduction, through brochures which area available in both guest rooms and staff areas

USD 200-300 (printing of brochures and leaflets)

Sewage treatment plant installation (biological wastewater treatment & STP)

N/A (included in the main project plan)

Damage to the reef by recreational activity

Waste water from kitchen, toilets (flushing) and laundry treated and reused

Lagoon, reef

Operational phase

Minor/long term

Resort management

N/A

Remaining grey water discharged to the ocean at a depth no less than 15m

Included in the construction cost


Marked areas (sign boards put on the reef) to access outer reef slope, thereby reducing trampling in other areas

USD 100-150 (cost of making sign boards)

Air pollution from power generation

Conduct awareness programs

Air

Operational phase

Minor if properly managed, long

term

Resort management

N/A (included in the staff training program)

To promote awareness, all guest rooms will have multi-lingual explanatory pamphlets advising on environmentally friendly practices

USD 100-200

Collection of corals, shells and other species will be prohibited at all times

N/A (included in the information pamphlets at each room)

Measures will be taken to minimize power consumption by installing energy saving lights and other electrical devices

N/A (included in the original project plan)


Oil spills and fire related accidents

When purchasing air conditioning units and freezers, ozone friendly brands will be purchased

On land

Operational phase

Minor if properly managed, long

term

Resort management

N/A (included in the original project plan)

Conduct awareness among staff, place brochures advising guest on switching off electrical appliances and air-conditioning

N/A provided in information pamphlets at each room)

Lay out fire control protocols, train staff in fire fighting and prevention

N/A (included in the staff training program)

Provision of emergency and fire prevention information in guest and staff rooms

Included in the guest information pamphlets

The use of fire retardant construction materials for guest and staff accommodation

N/A

Installing fire safety equipment service facilities and public areas

Included in the initial costs


Bund wall constructed around the fuel tanks. Fuel handling and generator area floors sealed materials

Included in the initial costs


10.1 SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT PLAN

Solid waste management will be given priority during construction and operational stage.

Construction stage: Waste generated during the construction phase will be sorted and reused as much as possible (construction debris for construction works as filling, timber for form work).

Operational stage: The management of Kudavillingili resort recognizes environmentally sound waste management as top priority on any resort operation. The management considers waste minimization as the first choice approach for addressing solid waste issues, because it conserves resources, reduces disposal costs and pollution, as well as protects and preserves the environment. Waste management will be achieved through source reduction and recycling.

The compactor, incinerator and glass crusher will be installed at the waste management building. Waste management during the resort operation will be undertaken as per the following waste management plan.

Table 29 Mitigation measures which will be implemented to minimise the issue of solid waste generated during the construction and operational phase of Kudavillingili

Phase Mitigation measures

Construction stage

1) Waste generated during construction phase sorted and reused if possible (construction debris works as filling, timber for form work)

2) Incinerate all burnable items (items small enough to be burnt in incinerator), rest sent to Thilafushi

3) Appointing project management staff for monitoring waste generation and management of contractors working on the island

4) Waste generated on each day collected and sorted at end of each day

Operational stage

1) Annual waste audits will be conducted to help identify ways of waste minimization at source

2) Having a purchasing policy that gives preference to products that have minimal waste implication whenever possible. This will include products that are durable, reusable and repairable; buy in bulk and avoid purchasing single-


use or disposable products.

3) Buying goods in bulk and avoiding over-packaged goods to minimise waste

4) Composting all organic waste from the kitchen and garden to minimize waste. The resulting compost will be used as a natural fertilizer on the island, replacing chemically harmful imported inorganic fertilizers.

10.1.1 DOMESTIC WASTE

In order to achieve a maximum level of separation, separate waste bins for plastic, paper, glass, metal and residual waste will be placed in all public areas of the resort, where applicable

Waste from the guest rooms will be sorted in to corresponding waste bins Waste bins inside the buildings will be easily accessible A high level of public relations and staff training will be necessary to reach a good

system of waste separation at the resort Total amount of solid waste generated in the resort will be measured and composition

will be determined on a regular basis Glass bottles will be crushed Cans (e.g. from canned foods) will be compacted before being taken to government

approved site for final disposal All plastic bottles will be stored at waste management building before being taken to a

government approved site for final disposal Combustible residual waste will be incinerated on the island according to the legal

requirements and permissions

10.1.2 KITCHEN WASTE

Food waste and solid waste from the temporary kitchens during construction stage and restaurants and other facilities during operational stage should be managed in order to reduce cost and reduce impacts from disposal activities.


Table 30 Mitigation measures which will be implemented to minimise the issue of kitchen waste generated during the construction and operational phase of Kudavillingili

Phase Mitigation measures

Construction stage

1) waste collection bins placed in mess room and kitchens

2) keeping separate bins clearly marked for glass, plastic and metal cans or bottles

3) burnable items incinerated

4) glass bottles crushed, tins and cans compacted and sent to Thilafushi

Operational stage

1) organic waste materials will be collected in special wet waste collection facilities or in separate bins

2) organic waste will be picked up daily and used to make compost

3) all burnable waste generated from kitchen area (waste that are in access for composting) will be incinerated

4) glass bottles crushed, metal cans compacted and sent to local disposal site or disposed at deep sea

5) plastic bottles will be collected at each service point in separate bins and stored at garbage collection building for transport to disposal site.

10.1.3 GREEN WASTE

Construction stage: During construction stage green waste will be generated from the vegetation clearance works, although all major vegetation (large mature trees) removed will be replanted elsewhere to the greatest extent possible. Daily cleaning work will also generate green waste; these would be used for making compost at the nursery. It has to be noted that since larger area of the development will be on reclaimed land, every effort has to be made to reuse the vegetation that are cleared due to them coinciding with building footprints. Coconut trees and other vegetation at Kudavillingili proper should be replanted and used for landscaping instead of destroying them.


Operational stage: Green waste is generated naturally on the island and from green area maintenance during operation.

Leaves and other organic matter from the surrounding vegetation will be left untouched (except for those that fall on the pathways) for natural composting

Dry leaves and chipped green waste will be composted in the nursery. Incinerated waste (organic) will be used as organic fertilizer to enhance local soil condition. These will be mixed with composting matter.

10.1.4 HAZARDOUS WASTE

Construction stage: Hazardous waste generated during the construction stage will be collected and stored at the designated waste collection area (by project management) and later send to Thilafushi for disposal. Hazardous wastes generated during the construction stage are;

Grease Waste oil (from generators, excavators) Batteries Chemical storage bottles (stainers, thinners)

Operational stage: A number of different types of hazardous waste will be generated from the resort facility, especially in technical areas. Typical kinds of hazardous waste that will be generated at the resort will be:

Grease, oil and low-viscosity separators in areas of technical installations, fuelling facilities, workshops

Sludge from grease traps Clinical waste Chemicals of all kinds Emulsion mixtures from cleaning Residues from refurbishment (paint, furnace etc.) Dilution solvent and cleaning agents Dry batteries and accumulators

In the field of hazardous waste management high priority will also be given for prevention of waste generataion. Measures to be taken are:

Clinical waste generated at the resort will be incinerated for proper disposal


Rechargeable batteries will be used in equipment as much as possible to minimize battery waste

Low or non-mercury alkaline batteries and zinc-carbon batteries will be used in equipments wherever appropriate. These waste batteries are not considered as hazardous waste and therefore will be disposed at the landfill

Waste oil from the generators will be collected and taken to a government approved site.

Use of pesticides and all garden chemicals will be kept to the absolute minimum necessary

Least toxic cleaners, sanitizers, paints and pesticides will be used throughout the resort Biodegradable cleaning agents will be used as much as possible Further possibilities of prevention and reuse will be investigated Disposal of the hazardous waste material will not take place on the resort area or at sea

10.1.5 WASTE DISPOSAL PLAN

The solid waste generated at the Facility will be taken to waste disposal building. The solid waste then will be sorted into different categories such as paper, plastic, glass, aluminum, etc for easy management and disposal. The waste generated at the resort will be carefully managed by use of waste management equipment.

All flammable waste will be incinerated, glass bottles will be crushed Aluminum cans will be compacted Food and garden waste will be incinerated or composted The residual waste such as crushed glass, compacted cans and residuals from the

incinerator will be regularly taken to a government approved waste dumping site or disposed at deep sea.

Most of the food waste and green waste generated on the resort will be composted for use as soil fertilizers.


* Bulky waste and hazardous waste shipped to Thilafushi once every two weeks

Figure 68 Solid waste management plan layout for Kudavillingili

Administration Maintenance House keeping Restaurents/Kitchens

Landscaping

Pre

ven

tio

nC

olle

ctio

nR

euse

/ re

cycl

eD

isp

osa

l- Cleaning productspurchased in bulk and concentrated form- Refillable/reusable amenities used- Towels, linen and otherhousekeeping items washedwhen requested- Maximise use of cleaning products, avoid wasteof cleaning products

- Use of durable repairableproducts- High qaulity reusable products - Double -sided photocopyingto maximise paper use, reuse used paper for drafting

-Refillable/reusableamenities purchased- Purchased products in bulk to minimise packaging- Avoid purchasing single use or disposal products- Sending glass bottlesor plastic bottles overseasfor recycling or reuse- Restaurant condimentsbehind the counter , not insingle service packet

-Leaves and organic matter will be left untouched at areas not used, for natural composting (except pathways)- all green waste collected fromresort cleaning works, composted at the nursery and used as fetilizer

Collection

Sorted waste

Glass

Crushing

Metal/plastics

Composting

Oil Bulkywastes

Organic waste Green waste Damaged or oldmaterials

Thilafushi Incinerator Auctioned/reused

Fish feeding

Wood chipper

Compost

-Periodic checking ofmachinery- Purchasing durableeasily repaiarable items

Sortables

Burnables

Exported forrecycling


10.2 SEWAGE AND WASTE WATER MANAGEMENT PLAN

According to the tourism regulation each island should have a sewage treatment facility for disposing sewage and waste water. Sewage and waste water management for Kudavillingili will be formulated during the development of Kudavillingili. The main objective of the sewage and wastewater management plan will be to minimise waste water outputs in order to protect the aquatic environment and to conserve and protect the quality of fresh water resources. This can be achieved through water conservation practices, awareness, education programmes among the staff and guests and proper treatment and disposal.

10.2.1 SEWAGE AND WASTE WATER TREATMENT METHOD

A sequence batch reactor (SBR) with a capacity of 300m3 per day will be installed on the island for sewage treatment. The SBR system works by oxidation and by homogeneous mixing of active biomass, creating condition for the development of bacteria which break down the organic matter. The biological reactor is configured with one tank, suitable for receiving a daily volume of waste up to 300m3 and to discharge it subsequent to degradation by means of pumps installed just under the surface.

10.2.2 SLUDGE USE

Wastewater from areas including guest rooms, staff accommodation, laundry and public areas will be connected to the treatment plant. The sewage sludge will be disinfected before disposal. The disinfected sludge remaining at the end of all treatment processes will be removed from the treatment plant and used as soil fertilizer for landscaping and gardening in order to minimise discharge in to the sea.

10.2.3 REUSING RECYCLED WATER

All waste water from the resort service, staff and guest areas will be treated in the sewage treatment plant and used for garden irrigation. This water will be passed through a pressure filter and treated with a carbon filter. The water will also be disinfected. By reusing the treated water discharge of effluent will be not necessary.


10.2.4 EMERGENCY SEWAGE OUTFALL

The emergency outfall pipe will be located on the southern side (channel side) of the island run across the lagoon over the reef flat and down to the reef slope at a depth no less than 15m. Periodic checks will be carried out to make sure there are no leakages or damage to the pipe line. The emergency outfall will only be used during possible accidents or repair works.

10.3 METHODS OF POWER GENERATION AND MEASURES TAKEN TO CONSERVE ENERGY

10.3.1 POWER GENERATION METHODS

10.3.1.1 DIESEL GENERATORS

A synchronized diesel power plant with total capacity of 3500kVA that automatically changes the load according to the usage requirement of the operation will be installed to meet the energy demand of Kudavillingili. Three generator sets of 1000kVA each and one backup generator of 500kVA will be installed in the power plant. The power house walls will be installed with sound proofing material to keep the noise levels down in the area. The system is energy efficient and also has capabilities for heat recovery.

10.3.1.2 RENEWABLE ENERGY (SOLAR ENERGY)

Since the proposed development is integrated with sustainable and environment-friendly development concept, use of clean sources of energy such as solar energy will be used at the facility. In this regard hot water generation at the facility will be met by using Solarhart water heating systems.

10.3.1.3 LPG (LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM GAS)

Liquefied Petroleum Gas will be utilized on the island as the main source of energy for cooking. LPG has been preferred over diesel because it is a cleaner source of energy that is known to generate less greenhouse gases. Supplementing LPG for cooking will also greatly reduce the use of diesel on the island.


10.3.2 ENERGY CONSERVATION MEASURES

An important aspect of the resort development project at Kudavillingili is achieving sustainable tourism development outcomes. In this regard, innovative energy saving measures will be introduced to reduce energy demand and energy cost. The measures outlined in Table 31 will be taken to minimize energy consumption:

Table 31 Measures which will be taken to minimize energy consumption

Source Mitigation or preventive measures

Guest and staff area

1. Energy saving lights such as compact florescent bulbs and lamps will be used in all guest rooms and staff accommodation.

2. All rooms and buildings will be appropriately ventilated for effective air circulation. This will minimize the air conditioning needs which consume a huge amount of energy.

3. Lighting levels will be decreased in general and at specified times by using timers and sensors

4. Room based key cards or keys will be used to switch on electricity in order to conserve energy

5. Brochures will be placed in the guest rooms advising on importance of energy conservation, notices will also be put up in staff areas about the need for conserving energy

Public areas 1. Energy saving and eco friendly equipment and appliances will be used in all rooms, restaurants, kitchen, laundry and other areas that consume major portion of energy produced

2. Glass windows or open areas will be designed in all major public areas so as to allow natural lighting during day time, thereby reducing lighting cost.

Kitchens 1. Frozen food will be defrosted in refrigerators with positive temperatures

2. Load and unloading of ovens will be done quickly to avoid unnecessary heat loss

3. Timers will be installed on cooking equipment so that automatic shut


off can be programmed for predetermined times

4. Steam pressure cookers will be used in order to reduce energy consumption

5. In order to minimize water wasted from running taps during cleaning and washing, press-button taps will be installed

6. Conduct awareness program to educated the kitchen and restaurant staff on environmentally friendly practices

Laundry 1. All equipment will be operated at full load and at rated capacity

2. Water leaks and other damages will be repaired immediately

3. All water inlet valves will be closed properly

4. Low temperature wash formulas will be used in order to reduce the use of hot water

5. Conduct awareness programs to educate the laundry staff on environmentally friendly practices

Fuel storage, handling and safety

1. Fuel will be pumped in to storing tanks through appropriately designed pipelines

2. Bund walls will be built around the storage tanks, which will hold more than the capacity of the tanks in case of oil spills or leaks

3. LPG will be stored in cylinders

4. All fuel handling areas will be tight fitted and appropriately sealed in order to reduce potential of oil spills and contamination

5. All fuel handling areas will have safety notices with regard to appropriately handling fuel

6. Regular inspection on fuel storage and supply areas will be undertaken

7. Awareness programs will be conducted

8. Fire fighting team will be trained and all staff will be trained in basic fire fighting skills


10.4 METHODS OF WATER GENERATION AND MEASURES TAKEN TO CONSERVE AND MANAGE WATER

10.4.1 METHOD OF WATER GENERATION

10.4.1.1 DESALINATED WATER (REVERSE OSMOSIS WATER PLANT)

The primary water production for Kudavillingili will be met by desalinated water produced by use of Reverse Osmosis Desalination plants. Total of three plants (two of capacity 250ton/day each and one with capacity of 150ton/day), of total capacity 650m3 per day will be installed on the island. This water will be used for cooking, washing, and showering. Daily monitoring will be carried out to check for water quality and rate of consumption. Feed water for the plant will be met by intake pipe located at the western side of the island at deep lagoon, while the brine outlet will be located at the southern side of the island, run along the emergency outfall pipe half across the lagoon.

10.4.2 GROUND WATER

Since tourism regulation stipulates that no groundwater should be used for any purpose during either the construction or operation of resorts, all water requirements during the construction phase and operation of the resort will be met by desalination plants.

10.4.3 WATER STORAGE

Four steel storage tanks will be used for storing desalinated water. Total capacity of the four storage tanks will be 920 tons.

10.4.4 WATER MANAGEMENT AND CONSERVATION MEASURES

Water conservation will be given a high priority; water cannot be conserved unless effective management measures and policies are placed accordingly.


Table 32 Measures which will be taken to conserve water on Kudavillingili

Area Mitigation or preventive measures

Water storage and distribution

1. Water will be treated with chlorine regularly to avoid contamination

2. Storage tanks will be protected from dust, pest and other sources of contamination by regular cleaning and conducting maintenance checks

3. Inlet and outlet valves will be placed to avoid the buildup of stagnant water

4. Tanks will be regularly checked for leaks or damage

5. Hot water tanks and pipes will be appropriately insulated to ensure that heat loss is minimize

Water consumption

1. Pipes which are leaking and dripping will be repaired as soon as identified

2. High water consuming appliances like washing machines and dish washers will be operated only in full loads and at rated capacity

3. When watering the gardens, the roots of the plants will be directed

4. Employees and guests will be advised and encouraged to save water

5. Tent cards will be placed in the bathrooms and toilets advising guest to save water

6. Invite guest to reuse their towels and linen (placing pamphlets advising guest to reuse towels and to avoid washing of unused towels, requesting guests to keep the dirty towels on the floor)

7. Recycled water will be used for flushing

8. Hot water and cold water mixtures will be installed in all service outlets

9. Pressure flush valves and twin valves (half flush, full flush buttons) will be installed in urinals and toilets

10. Taps and showers will be retrofitted with aerators

11. Water meters will be installed at strategic location to monitor leaks


11 MONITORING PROGRAM

Monitoring is the systematic collection of information over a long period of time. It involves the measuring and recording of environmental variables associated with the development impacts. Monitoring is needed to;

Compare predicted and actual impacts Test the efficiency of mitigation measures Obtain information about responses of receptors to impacts Enforce conditions and standards associated with approvals Prevent environmental problems resulting from inaccurate predictions Minimize errors in future assessments and impact predictions Make future assessments more efficient Provide ongoing management information Improve EIA and monitoring process

Impact and mitigation monitoring is carried out to compare predicted and actual impacts occurring from project activities to determine the efficiency of the mitigation measures. This type of monitoring is targeted at assessing human impacts on the natural environment. Impact monitoring is supported by an expectation that at some level anthropogenic impacts become unacceptable and action will be taken to either prevent further impacts or re-mediate affected systems. Mitigation monitoring aims to compare predicted and actual (residual) impacts so that effectiveness of mitigation measures can be determined.

Monitoring works during the operational phase will be carried out according to the Environmental Management Plan. Cost for the monitoring (data collection) activities will be covered by operating cost (commitment letter stating for carrying out and financing the mitigation and monitoring work is given in Appendix 7).

Table 33 Monitoring programme for construction phase of the project

Reef community Methodology Sampling frequency

Estimated cost for monitoring

Reef benthos (coral and other benthic cover)

Photo quadrate method

Every six months Rate per field survey USD 500.00

Reef fish community, diversity

Fish visual Census Every six months Rate per field survey USD 500.00


and abundance

Coral recruitment, growth rates and mortality

Quadrate method including photo-quadrate methodology

Every 3 months Rate per field survey USD 500.00

Invertebrate community

Direct count Every six months Rate per field survey USD 200.00

Sedimentation rates

(during reclamation)

Quantitative assessment of sediment loading on the reef benthos sediment traps deployed at the predetermined locations

During dredging works, and after completion reclamation

Rate per field survey USD 500.00

Sea water (sea water tested for contaminants or increased in nutrients due to outfall),

Ground water quality (tested due to use of treated water for irrigation)

Water samples sent to Food and drug authority for analysis. Following parameters are to be tested; salinity, pH, Electrical conductivity, dissolved oxygen, BOD, COD, Nitrite, Nitrate, Phosphate, Sulphates, total coliforms and faecal coliforms.

Every six months Rate per test set USD 100.00

Hydrodynamics Drouge track at 30s interval

Initially, after completion of the project and after six months



Table 34 Monitoring program for operational phase of the project

Reef community Methodology Sampling frequency

Estimated cost for monitoring

Reef benthos (coral and other benthic cover)

Line Intercept Transect/Photo quadrate method

1)After completion of construction, 2)every three months for up to one year, 3) yearly up to 5 years

1) Rate per field survey USD 200.00

2) USD 600.00

3)USD 1,000.00

Reef fish community, diversity and abundance

Fish visual Census 1)After completion of construction, 2)every three months for up to one year, 3) yearly up to 5 years


2) USD 600.00

3)USD 1,000.00

Coral recruitment, growth rates and mortality

Quadrate method including photo-quadrate methodology

Every 2 months for one year and once every spawning season


Sea water (sea water tested for contaminants or increased in nutrients due to outfall), ground water quality (tested due to use treated water for irrigation)

Water samples sent to Food and drug authority for analysis. Following parameters are to be tested; salinity, pH, Apparent color, Physical appearance, Electrical conductivity, dissolved oxygen, BOD, Nitrite, Nitrate,

1)After completion of construction,

2)every three months for up to one year,

3) bi annual after one year


2) USD 300.00

3)USD 1,000.00


Phosphate, total coli forms and faucal coli forms.

Beach littoral dynamics

Use of precision GPS to map the beach area. High tide line, beach toe line and erosion scarp lines will be mapped

This component can be done by resort management by hiring staff to do the surveys and send data to environmental consultant to analyze and include in the monitoring report

Every two months (this would give a clear picture of reclaimed shoreline changes over long term and seasonal shifts)

Training of staff for shoreline survey USD 1,000.00

Monthly salary for the staff USD USD 390.00

Purchase of Precision GPS and software USD 12,000.00

Beach profile surveys; USD 300.00 per survey trip


12 CONCLUSION

The environmental impacts associated with the proposed project are considered minor to moderate. This conclusion is based on the evaluation and various components of the proposed project, implementation methods discussed, finding of the existing environment and environmental components that are likely to be affected. The significant environmental components associated with the project are;

Coral reefs Nearshore lagoon and water quality and Terrestrial environment (minor impact)

The Reclamation works will change the existing hydrodynamic regime of the reef area near Kudavillingili, since the island will be extended northwards. The coastal protection and stabilizing structures proposed will be reduce sedimentation impacts associated with erosion. The monitoring program provided in the report will ensure that unforeseen and adverse affects of the shoreline modification designs are identified before adverse affects gets out of hand. Therefore shoreline monitoring proposed in the operation phase is critical to reduce possible future unforeseen impact. Evaluation of the terrestrial environment revealed that very few mature trees are present on the island and most of the vegetation on the island is either busy vegetation or shrubs. All mature trees at the building footprint areas will be relocated elsewhere according to the landscape plans. While the shrubs and busy vegetation will be planted at the back filling area. As much as possible vegetation will be retained.

The construction workforce would be located in temporary shelters. The BOH area will construction will be initiated in the initial stage which would reduce the area required for temporary setup during peak construction stage (temporary set up will be made at the reclaimed land, once reclamation work are completed). The STP power and water plants will be installed early in the project construction stage to minimize impacts.

Therefore, with due consideration to the environmental components identified above and the extent of the project activities and their likely and predicted impacts identified the consultant concludes that the project components and designs are feasible and appropriate mitigation measures have been considered to correct and minimize unfavourable environmental changes.


13 REFERENCES

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English, S., Wilkinson, C. and Baker, V. (1997). Survey Manual for Tropical Marine Resources. Australian Institute of Marine Science, Townsville, Australia. 390pp.

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Gischler, E. (2006). Sedimentation on Rasdhoo and Ga. Atolls, Maldives, Indian Ocean. Facies (2006) 52: 341–360.

Gourlay M.R., (1998). Coral cays: Products of wave action and geological processes in a biogenic environment. Proceedings of the 6th International Coral Reef Symposium, Australia. 2, 491 – 496.

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Kench, P. S .and Brander, R. (2005). Sensitivity of reef islands to seasonal climate oscillations: South Maalhosmadulu atoll, Maldives. Submitted to Coral Reefs.

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APPENDICES


Appendix 1 Terms of Reference (ToR)


Appendix 2 Site Plan


Appendix 3 Construction schedule

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36

Kuda Villingili Resort ProjectManaged & Owned by: Yacht Tours Maldives P.Ltd

Work Plan - 36 Months

DurationDaysDescription of Work

No. of units 3rd Year 1st Year 2nd Year

Project Summary 1080PreparationPreparation for the Project 30MobilizationSet up labor camp and site office 30Site and labor accommodation water supply 30Site and labor accommodation electricity supply 30Temperory Tanks for Desalinated WaterTemperory Tanks for Diesel and PetrolPreliminariessite clearance 30Preliminary survey and setting out 30Preliminary survey and setting out 30Excavations 30ProcurmentProcrument Plans 1020Guest RoomsBeach Villas 150 720Duplex Beach Villas (4 Room 2 Storey) 100 600Surf Beach Villas (5 Rooms 2 Storey) 50 390Water Villas 30 480Deluxe Water Villas 20 330Public Area FacultiesReception/Lobby/Admin, Boutique and Library 1 660Surf Bar 1 180Pool Bar 1 240Pool Bar 1 240Lagoon Bar 1 210Main Restaurant 1 450Specialty Restaurant 1 270Grill Restaurant 1 180Recreation centre with Gymnasium 1 180Kids Club 1 90Dive Centre 1 180Water Sports Centre 1 150Spa Main - On land 1 240Spa Treatment Rooms - On Water 10 210Arrival Jetty and Pavilion 1 150Support FacilitiesGeneral Managers Bungalow 1 90Management Staffs Bungalow 5 330

Page 1 of 2

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36

Kuda Villingili Resort ProjectManaged & Owned by: Yacht Tours Maldives P.Ltd

Work Plan - 36 Months

DurationDaysDescription of Work

No. of units 3rd Year 1st Year 2nd Year

Staff Family Bungalow 12 480Staff Family Common Building 1 240Senior Staff Block 1 270General Stores and Junior Staff Quarters 1 270Maintaince Building and Junior Staff Quarters 1 390Staff Kitchen and Junior Staff Quarters 1 240Staff Restaurant , Training and Stores - Block 1 1 300Laundry and Junior Staff Quarters - Block 2 1 360Cold Stores 1 90Service Centre 1 150Mosque 1 60House Keeping Stores 9 210Recycle House 1 60Communication Building 1 90Buggy Station 6 60Service InfrastructureSewage Treatment Plant 1 210Telephone & Internet Network 1 270Fire Protection 1 150Desalinate Brine Tanks 1 150Desalinate Water Storage Tanks 4 150Recycled Water Storage Tanks 3 150Fuel Storage Tanks - Diesel 3 150Fuel Storage Tanks - Petrol 2 150OthersLand Reclamation 1 180Beach Refurbishment and Protection 1 300Land Scaping and Gardeneing 1 870

Project Summary

Mile Stone

Cutoff Date

Page 2 of 2


Appendix 4 STP schematic diagram

Primary Treatment

Pumpstations in the island

P1

P2

P3

P4

SludgeContainer

Retention tank (50m )3

Pumps

Aeriation pump

Aeration sludgestorage

Sludge holdingtank (20m )3

Treated water Holding tank (20m )3

Pumps

Final treatment

Emergency outfall

Overflow

Overflow

Overflow

SludgeCompost

Sludge dewateringOverflow

Reject

Aeriation pump

Biological treatmentmultiline SBR


Appendix 5 Tree survey


Appendix 6 List of stakeholders

Ahmed Mohamed CEO Yacht Tours Maldives Pvt Ltd

Mohamed Shafeeq Architect GroupX Pvt Ltd

Yoosau Jameel President of Council Thulusdhoo Island Council


Appendix 7 Commitment letter

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