Fiyavalhu Maldives, a renowned resort in Mandhoo on Alifu Dhaalu Atoll, is set to undergo a significant redevelopment aimed at upgrading facilities, enhancing guest experiences, and addressing environmental concerns. The Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for the project outlines extensive plans to modernize the resort while ensuring environmental sustainability.
Project Overview
The redevelopment project, proposed by the resort’s management, includes the construction of new guest accommodation, guest service infrastructure, and back-of-the-house facilities. In addition to these upgrades, the project focuses on extensive coastal protection measures to combat ongoing erosion issues. The project will involve the renovation of existing groynes, the installation of new ones, and beach nourishment using sand dredged from the island’s lagoon.
Environmental and Regulatory Compliance
The redevelopment plans adhere strictly to the Environmental Protection and Preservation Act (EPPA) of the Maldives and relevant international conventions. The project has obtained necessary approvals from the Ministry of Tourism for the concept design of the new infrastructure and coastal protection measures.
The EIA report highlights the environmental assessment process, including baseline studies, impact predictions, and the development of a comprehensive Environmental Management Plan (EMP). This plan outlines measures to mitigate adverse impacts on the environment during construction and operation phases.
Coastal Protection Measures
One of the critical components of the redevelopment is the coastal protection strategy. The project proposes the renovation of existing Y-groynes and the construction of new ones to stabilize the beach and prevent erosion. The beach nourishment process involves dredging approximately 12,000 cubic meters of sand from the lagoon, which will be sieved to remove large rocks and organic material before being used to replenish the beach.
Project Timeline and Cost
The coastal protection work is expected to be completed within five months, while the entire redevelopment project, including the construction of new infrastructure, is anticipated to take approximately two years. The total cost of the project, including environmental monitoring and mitigation measures, is outlined in the EIA report.
Commitment to Sustainability
Fiyavalhu Maldives is committed to maintaining the ecological balance and minimizing the environmental footprint of the redevelopment project. The resort management has pledged to implement all mitigation measures and conduct regular environmental monitoring to ensure compliance with environmental standards.
Conclusion
The redevelopment of Fiyavalhu Maldives marks a significant step towards enhancing the resort’s facilities while prioritizing environmental conservation. With comprehensive planning and adherence to regulatory frameworks, the project aims to set a benchmark for sustainable tourism development in the Maldives.
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