HULHULE-MALE’ BRIDGE PROJECT

EIA for the proposed Hulhule-Male’ Bridge Project
construction of main bridge foundation; the construction of steel trestle is proposed to be
adopted underneath the approach bridge. Therefore, in the process of steel trestle construction,
deposition of integral steel casing sinks and water pumping, the partial bottom sediment may be
disturbed easily so as to cause the suspension of bottom sediment. Based on geotechnical
investigations, the dominant substrate at type at this project site is rock, rubble and sand with
larger grain diameter. Except in nearshore waters, the concentration of suspended matters to
construction will be in the vicinity of bridge pier, mainly within a 5 m area. Therefore, the
impact of bridge foundation on plankton during construction period will be minimal.
In addition, during construction of the bridge, accidental oil spills to the surrounding sea from
machinery and equipment on the construction platform, the residual oil leaking in the process of
machinery maintenance and oil leaking from construction ship and machinery equipment may
cause serious oil pollution and adversely impact plankton population. Construction management
measures to prevent these as prescribed in this report shall be strictly adhered during the
execution of the project.
A sand borrow area is proposed in Gulhifalhu Island for this project. Dredging is likely to
generate sediment plumes at this site, and increase the level of suspended solids in water
column, reducing the overall water quality. However, it is expected to subside shortly after
dredging work.
6.3.1.2 Analysis for impact on benthos during construction period
Benthic flora and fauna are an important biotype in the marine ecosystem, and the coral reefs are
the most important benthos in the Maldivian context. Coral reefs are highly sensitive to
environmental changes and pollution. Live corals and sessile benthic flora and fauna within the
footprint of the bridge (especially those falling in the footprint of the piers) are likely to be lost,
if no measures are taken to move these to other suitable locations. Sediment plumes generated
during the construction, will also adversely affect the benthic life forms at this site.
In addition, shading by the bridge deck will adversely impact benthos that are dependent on
sunlight for energy (e.g. corals, and algae.), these can be fatal depending on the level of sunlight
they receive throughout the day.
In this project, No.1-10 pier foundation is 6.25 m×7.0 m; No.11-18 pier foundation is 6.25
m×10.0 m; No.19-21 pier foundation is 17 m×23.25 m, No.22-23 pier foundation is 10.25
m×23.25 m, No.24 pier foundation is 6.25 m×6.25 m and No.25-26 pier foundation is 6.25
m×7.0 m. Through calculation, the habitat area of benthos affected by occupation of bridge pier
foundation is about 2706 m 2 ,the land reclamation area for connecting subgrade on Airport
Prepared by: CDE Consulting & China Shipping Environment Technology
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