B. Thulhadhoo Site Visit Report

Analytic Site Visit Report

Maldivian Architecture & Culture Baa. Thulhaadhoo

Abdulla Firaq Azma Abdul Fathah Hussain Kausar Ibrahim Nadheem Ismail Ameen Mohamed Aslam

23647 01030 16281 24937 24218 23997

Assignment 2 Enviroment & Culture II Diploma in Architecture Semester 2 Faculty of Engineering Technology Maldives National University

Analytic Site Visit Report

Maldivian Architecture & Culture Baa. Thulhaadhoo

Foreword In addition to surveys carried out in Baa atoll Thulhaadhoo, Kendhoo and Kudarikilu, the information and data presented in this report is compiled by means of research, interviews with locals and government officials. In order to create a suitable and sustainable environment for the locals to live in, these surveys and site analysis were carried out focusing on the current situation and the future plan proposed by the government for the island.

The study of the island was carried out by the class as one group within a week in Thulhaadhoo. The several tasks were divided into different stages for a speedy process. To gain more accurate information, the analysis was completed by forming groups to study the areas that need to be given a special attention in the island.

Problems that were observed in the current situation of the island are taken into consideration so as to propose wellplanned and long lasting solutions.

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Contents

Foreword ............................................................................................I Basic Needs of Today ..................................................................23 Contents ............................................................................................II Waste Management Systems ................................................23 List of Figures ...................................................................................IV Sewage system .................................................................23 Abstract ............................................................................................VI Food ......................................................................................27 Introduction ......................................................................................1 Water ....................................................................................28 Thulhaadhoo ................................................................................2 Education ..............................................................................29 History ...............................................................................................4 Tourism ..................................................................................31 Early Settlers of Thulhaadhoo .......................................................5 Boat Building .........................................................................32 Population Density .......................................................................6 Fishing ...................................................................................34 Vegetation ....................................................................................6 Raa Erun ................................................................................35 Environment and Climate Responses ...........................................6 Roanu Veshun ........................................................................36 Occupations .................................................................................8 Analysis of Island .............................................................................38 Fishing .....................................................................................8 Zoning .........................................................................................39 Roanu Veshun ..........................................................................8 North East Area .....................................................................41 Liyalaa Jehun ...........................................................................9 South East Area .....................................................................46 Lacquer Preparation ...........................................................9 South West Area ....................................................................49 Ruh Erun ( Raiverikan) ...........................................................10 North West Area ....................................................................54 Faru Hilun ..............................................................................10 Old Town .........................................................................................60 Other Works .........................................................................10 Green Space .....................................................................64 Basic Needs of The Island ...........................................................11 Vehicular Circulation ........................................................65 Education ..............................................................................11 Pedestrian Circulation ......................................................66 Health ....................................................................................12 Air Circulation ...................................................................68 Waste Management ..............................................................12 Analysis of Block ..............................................................................70 Religion ..................................................................................13 Block ...........................................................................................71 Food and Water .....................................................................15 Plot Layout ..................................................................................72 Transport ...............................................................................16 Breathing Spaces ........................................................................73 Sports and Entertainment .....................................................17 Pathways ....................................................................................74 Housing Methods and Materials ................................................18 Wind ...........................................................................................76 Present ............................................................................................20 Circulation ..................................................................................78 Population Growth .....................................................................21 Orientation .................................................................................81

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Topography .................................................................................82 Vacuum Sewage System .................................................124 Architecture ...............................................................................83 Treatment Plant ..............................................................124 Elevations ...................................................................................84 Ejector Station ................................................................124 Water & Sewer ...........................................................................87 Sewage System .........................................................................124 Acoustics ....................................................................................88 How it works ........................................................................124 Waste Management ...................................................................89 Vacuum Sewer .....................................................................125 Electricity ....................................................................................89 Advantages .....................................................................127 Light ............................................................................................90 Treatment plant ...................................................................128 Vernacular Architecture ..................................................................92 How it works ...................................................................128 Kanmathee Irumatheege ............................................................93 Advantages of MBR ........................................................129 Plan .......................................................................................94 The Ejector Station .........................................................129 Orientation ............................................................................98 Health in the Current City .........................................................130 Vegetation ...........................................................................100 Fire Safety .................................................................................131 Internal Circulation ..............................................................101 Drainage ...................................................................................132 External Circulation .............................................................102 Cultural Conflicts ......................................................................134 Architecture ........................................................................103 Interaction of Residents .......................................................135 Future ............................................................................................104 Clubs and Associations ........................................................136 Government Plans ....................................................................105 Green Zones ........................................................................137 Existing Island ............................................................106 Vehicles and Vehicle Regulations ..............................................138 Proposed Land Use ....................................................106 Solution ...............................................................................138 New Opportunities ..............................................................107 Create A Public Transportation System ................................138 Conclusion .....................................................................................108 Limiting The Number of Vehicles ........................................139 Recommendations ........................................................................110 Environment Friendly Vehicles ............................................139 Old Town ..................................................................................111 Traffic Control and Road Safety ...........................................139 Soil Erosion ...............................................................................112 Traffic Lights ....................................................................139 Harbor Facility ..........................................................................114 Flow of Vehicles ..............................................................139 Sports Grounds .........................................................................116 Speed of Vehicles ...........................................................139 Waste Management .................................................................118 Pedestrian Flow ..............................................................139 Waste Collection ..................................................................119 Slum Formation In the Old Town ..............................................140 Incineration ........................................................................121 Formation of Gangs ..................................................................142 Land Scarcity ...........................................................................123 References .....................................................................................144 Analytic Site Visit Report

III

List of Figures

Figure 1: Map of Maldives Figure 2: Map of Baa Atoll Figure 3: Map of Thulhaadhoo Figure 4: A map showing how Aryans migrated to South Asia Figure 5: Map of Baa Atoll, showing area most vulnerable to erosion.

Figure 6: Soil erosion occurs in Thulhaadhoo Figure 7: A fisherman with his catch Figure 8: Roanu Figure 9: Lacquer work.

Figure 10: Raiveriyaa & Raa badhi.

Figure 11: Coconut FLower Figure 12: The “Maaloodhu haruge”, later used as a school Figure 13: Boashi used as a herbal medicine.

Figure 14: Garbage was usually dumped or burned near the beach.

Figure 15: Buddha in a buried temple excavated on Thoddu island in Ari Atoll Figure 16: Monument for Yoosuf Thabreysi, at Baa Kendhoo Figure 17: Rice, Main food source for Maldivians.

Figure 18: Well-water was used for drinking.

Figure 19: Male’ harbour 1879 Figure 20: Sindbad-The Sohar Figure 21: Malikutarra drumming dance Figure 22: Rosset todu dance of maldives in 1885 Figure 23: Village on Mulaku island 1922 Figure 24: Thulhaadhoo is most famous for their craftman ship in Lacquerwork.

Figure 25: Current Population of thulhaadhoo of September 2010 Figure 26: Population growth in the past 10 years Figure 27: One of the main road. ground is flat and level throoughout the island.

Figure 28:Typical geological structure of an atoll Figure 29: Schematic diagram of typical “reef flat” Figure 30: Location of sewage pipeline outlets connected to the sea.

Figure 31: The garbage disposal area Figure 32: Plan of Garbage disposal area Figure 33: Wind flow over the garbage disposal area Figure 34: Process of disposing waste from the island.

Figure 35: Dhoni’s are anchored in the lagoon due to a lack of harbour.

Figure 36: The main jetty of the island Figure 37: The second jetty is damaged and in need of repair.

Figure 38: Health Center Figure 39: Few of the locally grown fruit and vegetables on the island.

Figure 40: Public Water tanks.

Figure 41: Entrance to Thulhaadhoo School.

Figure 42: Employment, by different industries Figure 43: Location of Various resorts operating in Baa atoll.

Figure 44: A boat under construction in a haruge.

Figure 45: Locations of Boatyards.

Figure 46: Inside a haruge’ on the north east side of the island.

Figure 47: A Small boat (bokkuraa) used for reef fishing.

Figure 48: Pole and line fishing Figure 49: Some equipments and techniques used in Raa erun Figure 50: Coconut Husk, Main Material in roanu.

Figure 51: Making Coir rope.

Figure 52: Various steps in lacquer work.

Figure 53: Zoning map of thulhadhoo.

Figure 54: Location & Site plan of North East Area.

Figure 55: Hut used by the locals of Thulhaadhoo Figure 56: Health centre

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Figure 57: Football field Figure 58: The only saloon present in the island Figure 59: Construction of a boat at the boat yard Figure 60: Cafe’ used by most of the youngsters Figure 61: Main Harbour on the north side of the island.

Figure 62: A typical house in the northeast area of the island.

Figure 63: Location & Site plan of South East Area.

Figure 64: Cemetry Figure 65: An abandoned mosque Figure 66: Thulhaadhoo School Figure 67: Fish drying area Figur 68: Location & Site plan of South West Area.

Figure 69: Mosque on the main road.

Figure 70: A hut used by the youth of the island Figure 71: The only gas supplying store present in the island Figure 72: Police station Figure 73: Thulhaadhoo court Figure 74: Holhuashi situated at the north west beach area Figure 75: Location & Site plan of North West Area.

Figure 76: The edge of the old town, showing Figure 77: MDP haruge Figure 80: Sitting area present at the end of Bodumagu Figure 78: Fish laid to dry on Mas Ashi Figure 79: Holhuashi area Figure 81: Men working at lacquer workshop Figure 82: Beach near west boatyard.

Figure 83: A relaxing environment facing the north beach of the island Figure 84: Location & Site plan of Old Town.

Figure 85: East Side of block Figure 86: West Side of block Figure 87: Inside the old town. Traditinal house next to a more recent house.

Figure 88: Plan of Old Town, showing green space Figure 89: Plan of Old town, Showing vehicular circulation .

Figure 90: Plan of Old town, Showing Pedestrian Circulation.

Figure 91: A typical Road inside the old town.

Figure 92: Plan of Old town, Showing Air Circulation.

Figure 93: One of the 2 mosques in the old town.

Figure 94: Location and Site plan of Block Figure 95: PLan of Block Sshowing layout and distribution of plots Figure 96: Open spaces create breathing spaces inside the block Figure 97: Small potted plants create a relaxing enviroment inside the block Figure 98: Plan of block showing open spaces Figure 100: The excess room created by the setback of the house Figure 101: The iregular path is used as a space for socialising and relaxing.

Figure 99: Plan of a pathway in the block.

Figure 102: A domestic water tank placed on an open space alongdside a path.

Figure 103: A Pathway inside the block Figure 104: Plan of block showing Circulation of wind inside the block.

Figure 105: Internal pathways of the block are iregular and narrow.

Figure 107: Plan of block showing circulation of pedestrians.

Figure 108: Sketch of main road west of the block Figure 110: Overhangs block most of the sunlight.

Figure 109: Sunpath over the block Figure 111: Overhangs shade the pathways throughout the day.

Figure 112: Overhangs shade the pathways throughout the day.

Figure 113: A Section of an entrance to a house

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Figure 114: A Section through the block.

Figure 115: West side facade of the block.

Figure 116: Elevations.

Figure 117: Elevations.

Figure 118: Temporary solutions to tackle problems become permanen.

Figure 119: Domestic water tanks used to collect and store rain water.

Figure 120: Noise around the block Figure 121: Garbage disposal area on the island Figure 122: Electrical appliences in the most primitive and traditional homes.

Figure 123: Light sources around the block Figure 124: Sketch of Kanmathee Irumatheeruge’ Figure 125: Plan of kanmathee Irumatheege’ Figure 126: Plan of kanmathee Irumatheege’ Figure 127: Plan of kanmathee Irumatheege’ Figure 128: Plan of kanmathee Irumatheege’ Figure 129: Orientation of Kanmathee Irumatheege’ Figure 130: Ventilation through the house.

Figure 131: Vegetation- Kanmathee Irumatheege’ Figure 132: Internal Circulation - Kanmathee Irumatheege’ Figure 133: External Circulation - Kanmathee Irumatheege’ Figure 134: Section - Kanmathee Irumatheege’ Figure 135: Map of Thulhaadhoo with proposed plan of new town.

Figure 136: Proposed map of new town.

Figure 137: Recomended heritage site insite old town.

Figure 138: Temporary solution to tackle erosion.

Figure 139: The west side of the island, area most vulnerable to ersion.

Figure 140: Sea wall to protect from erosion.

Figure 141: One of the 2 jetties existing on the island in very poor conditino.

Figure 142: Proposed area for a harbour.

Figure 143: Inadequate facilities for sports and recreational activities.

Figure 144: Plan of sports and recreational areas.

Figure 145: Different colors of waste bins Supplied for each residence.

Figure 146: Different colors of waste bins for different types of garbage.

Figure 147: Garbage collection vehicles route.

Figure 148: Shikoto incineration plant in Tokyo Figure 149: Maishima waste management centre in Osaka.

Figure 150: Garbage Incineration process.

FIgure 151: The entire island is built upto its maximum capacuty Figure 152: Sewage System FIgure 153: Vacuum sewage pump network in a town.

FIgure 154: Schematic diagram of a vacuum sewage pump system.

Figure 155: Typical schematic for membrane bio-reactor system Figure 156: Schematic for membrane bio-reactor system Figure 157: An x ray machine Figure 158: CT scan machine Figure 159: Main pipe line can be connected to home drainage systems.

Figure 160: A home drainage system Figure 161: Part of a Prefabricated drainage system Figure 162: Main pipeline of the drainage system.

Figure 163: Typical layout of houses in a block.

Figure 164: Plan of island showing distribution of green socilization zones.

Figure 165: Public transportation Bus Route.

Figure 166: A slum next to a developed ctcity.

Figure 167: Slums increase poverty and are a health risk.

Figure 168: Tackling gang issues

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Abstract Rapid, uncontrolled urbanization and unplanned growth of the islands is a major issue this country is facing today. Although thulhaadhoo is situated in a remote rural area of the country, rapid urbanization has been a major issue in the island too.

Today rapid urbanization has become the root of many other problems. Some of these problems include overcrowding, pollution and also give a rise to social, cultural, economic and environmental issues. Thus instead of speeding up the development of the island it acts as setback for the island in the race against development and sustainable urbanization.

To tackle these issues, government has proposed a development strategy for the island. However, this plan has failed to address some of important issue such as what would happen to the only architectural and historical heritage left in the island known as the old town. In order to create a successful and healthy land, these issues are to be identified immediately and sustainable and well planned actions are to be taken to tackle these issues.

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Introduction Urban sprawl, also known as suburban sprawl, is a multifaceted concept, which includes the spreading outwards of a city and its suburbs to its outskirts to low-density and auto-dependent development on rural land and high segregation of uses (e.g. stores and residential). As a result, some critics argue that sprawl has certain disadvantages, including: • Inadequate facilities such as in health

field.

• Spreading of mental and physical

diseases.

• Higher per-person infrastructure costs.

• Inefficient street layouts.

• Low diversity of housing and business

types.

• Higher per-capita use of energy, land

and water.

• Perceived low aesthetic value.

Many nations had successfully dispatched or dealt with these issues in the past while other countries are on their way towards planning

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of new urban areas. Government Intervention is often required to guide urban development for achieving an orderly development of the different areas of the city so as to improve the quality of the city and the standard of life of the people.

Many individuals preferred to live in or near the urban areas because of availability of different means of earning livelihood in a more or less compact area and availability of necessary facilities for comfortable living in a consolidated area including utilities and services, shopping, recreational and cultural facilities, educational facilities, means of communications and movement. Urban areas developed either through objectively planned areas, guided and regulated by deliberate regulation and control systems or spontaneous growth through unplanned isolated constructions especially on the city fringes.

Maldives had been much an isolated or remote place in the history, where problems of housing

limitation and lack of land availability are issues that are not deeply talked about in the public.

However, with the developments in transport and the unequal developments in job opportunities, poor health facilities, improper systems of education within the nation led to the creation of issues.

The results; today we are at stake of having to face circumstances of unplanned and uncontrolled growth. No matter how distinctive the problems may be to these small islands having unique topographies and cultures, much of the problems can be resolved with the aid of precedents of modern planned cities.

Baa atoll Thuhaadhoo is chosen to study well regarding to the city growth which contains old typical fragments of early Maldives. Visits were also scheduled and made to Kudarikil and Kendhoo to find further details and comparisons of local city growth and planning.

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Thulhaadhoo

Thulhaadhoo is one of the inhabited islands of Maalhos Madulu Dhekunu buri (Baa Atoll). The island has been reclaimed by the government recently due to scarcity of land resource. The traditional handicraft work known as lacquer work (liyelaa jehun) is the main occupation of the people of the island. Thulhaadhoo is well known for this lacquer work thorugh out the Maldives.Ornamental and souvenir items are made through this process and being sold to nearby resorts. The island has one secondary school, health centre, mosque and two pre schools where modern techniques have been applied in designing these public places. This is very different than the remarkable old town of Thulhaadhoo where traditional building methods are dominated immensely.

Figure 1: Map of Maldives

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Figure 2: Map of Baa Atoll

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B.THULHAADHOO

The atoll name, Maalhos Madulu, is derived from the island name Maalhos which is located in the eastern side of the atoll as seen from the map. The atoll has been divided into three parts naturally which are named as Fasdhoothere, Mai Atoll and Goidhu Aoll.

There are oceans in between each part of the atoll which have distances of different widths. Vaadhoo Kan’du or Dheburidheythere Kan’du (Moresby Channel) is located in between Fasdhoothere and Raa Atoll.

An ocean named as Hani kan’du is located in between Fasdhoothere and Mai Atoll. The Goidhu Atoll and Mai Atoll is divided with an ocean of 6.5 miles which is located in the western side of the Kaashidhoo kan’du. This ocean is rough in both the seasons. i.e Iruvai and Hulhan’gu moosun.

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Figure 3: Map of Thulhaadhoo

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History

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Early Settlers of Thulhaadhoo

The exact date and first settlers of Maldives are still unknown. Previously several researches had been conducted to find out the information about early settlers of Maldives and some unified theories and beliefs have been made according to the findings. It is believed that it had been more than 2500 years after the first settlers of Maldives.

Legend has said that a prince and his wife, the daughter of the King of today’s Sri Lanka, stopped at Raa Atoll during a voyage and was invited to stay as rulers. Later King Koimala and his wife settled in Malé with permission of the Giraavaru tribe, the aboriginal tribe of Kaafu atoll.

Aryans from India and Sri Lanka are believed to have settled in the Maldives from 1500 BC onwards - according to latest archaeological findings. The historians date early settlers back to 5th century BC with the Aryan immigrants coming from the neighbouring countries India and Sri Lanka. The Aryans were semi-nomadic Nordic Whites, perhaps located originally on the steppes of southern Russia and Central Asia, who spoke the parent language of the various Indo-European languages.

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Figure 4: A map showing how Aryans migrated to South Asia

The Maldivian language is said to be Indo-Aryan with influences from Sinhalese, Tamil, Sanskrit, Persian, Urdhu and Arabic. “Elu”, an archaic form of Sinhala (spoken in Sri Lanka) shows great similarities to Dhivehi. As a favourite stopover on the busy trade routes, the Maldives have had many visitors and influences, trading with Arabia, China and India with coconut, dried fish and above all the precious cowry shell, a small white shell found on the beach, used as currency in countries near the Indian Ocean.

These shells were found as far away as Norway or West Africa showing the extent of the trade relations of the Maldives.

The other people who settled in Maldives include Dravidians and North West Indians according to historians. Dravidians is a term used to refer to the diverse groups of people who natively speak languages belonging to the Dravidian language family. Populations of speakers are found mostly in southern India.

The people of the north atolls have often met with travelers of many other countries such as the people from Africa, Middle East and Europe. This is because the foreign transportation was mainly across the north atolls during that time and it was difficult to travel to the southern atolls of the Maldives. Due to this fact the early settlers and their language remained entirely unchangeable in south atolls of the Maldives.

People of the North atolls are more civilized than southern atolls due to relationships with foreigners. (Pirad ) It is believed that Thulhaadhoo has the same origin of other Maldivians. Aryans, Drevidians and North West Indians are considered as the main groups of people who had settled down in Maldives.

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Population Density

Environment and Climate Responses

It is yet another unknown figure of the island. From the interviews it is noted that the old Thulhaadhoo has 40 people in the very beginning and around 400 people lived in the island during the Sultanate of Shamsuddin (1902-1932). In 2006 the population is increased to 2445. The population density is 79.7 per hector.

The west side of Thulhadhoo is exposed to huge waves and winds of hulhangu moosun. This constant vulnarability minimises the chance of formation of new island on the west side of the atoll. Existing islands, including Thulhaadhoo, in the west part of the atoll continiously faces problems of soil erosion.

Vegetation The island should have been highly vegetated at first as seen from the other coral reef islands of the Maldives. But the rapid urbanisation followed by the allocation of houses in the scarce land led to deforestation throughout the years. In the past, the boundaries near the beach area were eminent with trees such as palm trees, magoo and hirundhu as seen from the typical Maldivian Islands.

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In 1896 and 1898 AD, almost half of the land area of Thulhaadhoo vanished due erosion which occurred during the rainy season of those years. However the island has been gradually growing on the easetern side, due to settlement of new soil brought by currents. (Dhivehi Raajjeyge Geographyge Vanavaru, Luthfee) The lack of available land has forced the residents to reclaim land from the lagoon of the island to build new homes for themselves.

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The existing islands in the west part of the atoll undergo the problem of soil erosion due to the orientation and location of the atoll and minimises the chance of formation of new islands.

Figure 5: Map of Baa Atoll, showing area most vulnerable to erosion.

Figure 6: Soil erosion occurs in Thulhaadhoo

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Occupations

The island’s main occupations in the past include fishing, farming, Roanu veshun, Liyalaa jehun, Ruh erun, Faru hilun and Gethun.

Fishing

Farming

Roanu Veshun

The locals used to sell fish to Bumbaa people who were groups of merchants mainly fom Bombay, India. They first came to the Maldives as traders in the early 19th century and kept their shops in Male’. Maldivians called them “Bumbaa meehun”, which meant “Bombay people”. Fish was exported to other countries such as India and Sri Lanka by these merchants. Soon they monopolised virtually all external trade in and out of Malé. They were expelled in the early 1960.

Due to the lack of land availability, farming was not done in the island. But they did farming in two nearby uninhabited islands of Dhunikolhu and Vakkaru. Mostly Bimbi was harvested by the farmers.

In early days, the women of Thulhaadhoo were involved in this work very much compared to modern days. They did it as an occupation to earn money. To make a coir rope, or roanu, the husk of the ripe coconut is buried in the beach, within reach of the lapping waves, and left to soak for three to four weeks. It is then dug up and pounded – and the fibres extracted. The fibres are then washed with seawater and left to dry in the sun. Once dry, it is woven into rope by hand.

Figure 7: A fisherman with his catch

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The size of the roanu depends on its use.

Traditionally, it was commonly used in everyday life with boats, during construction of traditional houses, in the making of the traditional hammock or joali, etc.

Traditionally, women are most involved in the making of roanu, or roanu veshun, although it is extensively used as part of the more ‘industrial work’ performed by men – such as house building.

A roanu bon’di includes 12 fai before but it is limited to 8 fai in present days. Fai is the amount of roanu in a particular selling piece. (Zuleykha, 2010).

Figure 8: Roanu

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Liyalaa Jehun Records show that the Chinese were the first to manufacture, and the first to trade lacquer.

Lacquer work, or laajehun in local tongue, may have been brought to the Maldives in a period of time when trade between China, and the rest of South Asia flourished. The 17th century saw lacquer worked objects play a central role in the Maldivian economy, as an article of export.

Before lacquer became considered as something with aesthetic value, it was really its protective properties against atmospheric change that made it so popular among Maldivian folk.

Liyelaa jehun was said to be introduced from India or Bangladesh, during their travel to these countries according to the interview of Kuda Ahtha. The precise date is still unknown but Liyelaa jehun was seen from the 500 years old mosque of Utheem Hussain Khatheeb Thakurufaanu, according to the son of Kuda Ahtha.

Dhon Ismail who was famous for lacquer work used to go to Baa atoll Enboodhoo to work secretly. They tried to hide their own techniques in the process of this work. The other islanders were also involved in lacquer work.

Small wooden crafted containers and vases, and also buildings meant to stand the test of time were decorated with lacquer painted intricate floral designs, in bold colours of red, blue, green and gold. However, recent times have brought into question the survival of this rich cultural heritage, as this skill is preserved only in the island of Thulhaadhoo in Baa Atoll.

Lacquer work has been used to decorate the interior of buildings, and to display the artistry of local craftsmen. In this regard, Lacquer work is used on mostly wood as a coating to prevent it from the weather and to maintain quality of wood for long periods of time.

Lacquer Preparation The lacquer is drawn and beaten in two ways.

One way is to heat the required amount of lacquer in the fire, take it out and put it on a piece of wood when its melted and to smash it into small pieces with a wooden baton before the hot lacquer cools down. In this process, the lacquer will keep on melting from the heat.

When the lacquer can be stretched like a thread, color is added (if required) and the lacquer is continuously smashed so that the color gets throughout to all parts of the lacquer.

The other method of preparing the lacquer is to take a small piece of lacquer in the end and to heat it in the fire. When it starts to melt, more lacquer is added to the melting lacquer and is molded into a shape by the hand. Colour can be added during this process. The lacquer can be then sliced according to the shape and size required.(Thickness 1/8 inch, width 1/2 inch, length 3-4 inch) The other materials required in lacquer work include ihalu gon’di. It is used to make the surface smooth while the lacquer object is coloured.

Rukufan is also used in the process to make the object’s surface shiny.

Figure 9: Lacquer work.

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Ruh Erun ( Raiverikan)

Faru Hilun

Other Works

Palm wine also called Palm Toddy or simply Toddy is a beverage created from the sap of various species of palm tree such as the Palmyra, and coconut palms.

In early days, most of the men were involved in this work in Thulhaadhoo.

The sap is extracted and collected by a tapper.

Typically the sap is collected from the cut flower of the palm tree. A container is fastened to the flower stump to collect the sap. The white liquid ( Rukuraa) that initially collects tends to be very sweet and nonalcoholic.

The women of the island used to make dhiyaa hakuru and karu hakuru after warming and cooking rukuraa for some hours.

The other work which had been done as an occupation by the citizens of Thulhaadhoo includes faru hilun (boli hilun). Maldive cowrie shells called cypraea moneta, dating back to more than 2000 B.C., have been found in China and the Middle East. Maldives was the only source for this type of cowrie, and was sometimes called the “Cowrie Islands� by Arab travellers. The women of the island were mostly involved in this work during morning and evening hours in early days.

The other works done by Thulhaadhoo residents include Gethun which is a kind of sewing work.

They used to make Libaas (a dress of women) by the method of Gethun.

Lakudi fai, which is a measuring tool used in their trade works, was made in the island. Residents of Baa atoll Fulhadhoo used to visit to Thulhaadhoo to learn the process of making this fai. ( Kuda Ahtha, 2010) From all these information it can be predicted that the Thulhaadhoo people are clever in traditional works. In early days, it was remarkably noted that the people of the North atolls of the Maldives were knowledgeable in Astrology and handicraft works.

(Pirad).

Figure 10: Raiveriyaa & Raa badhi.

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Figure 11: Coconut FLower

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Basic Needs of The Island Thulhaadhoo is a self sufficient island because they fulfilled their basic needs using the materials and services available from the island and nearby areas of its location. It is not only specific to Thulhaadhoo.

The residents of the other islands of the Maldives have also lived in the same way during the past years where modern technology and knowledge is very far from their view. Therefore they continued their living style depending on naturally accessible materials.

Education

Figure 12: The “Maaloodhu haruge�, later used as a school

Education is necessary in determining a well disciplined society. At first, the old school was a Maaloodhu Haruge which was built by the residents of Raa Atoll Meedhoo and Thulhaadho within a year.

In the following years around 1960, the building was used as a school in the island for the first time.

In early days there were few people who were educated and most of the people in the islands learnt only basic Islamic knowledge and Quran from edhuru dhaitha or edhurube. They used to go to Makthabu (a school which was built using ruku fan in most of the islands) to study Islam, Quran, basic Mathematics and general knowledge in later years.

Thulhaadhoo is not an exception for this level of education as the other islands of Maldives. After opening the school around 1960, the residents believed that is was a great opportunity for them to educate their children as there were few schools in the other islands of Maldives during those years.

From the interview of Kuda Ahtha, it is known that they had an admiration over the teachings of Kandi Theem Dhon Ibrahim, a respected teacher who taught in their school.

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Health

Waste Management

Dhivehi beysverikan (Traditional medicine) was used when people were ill in early years. They faced health problems and successfully overcame many diseases by treating the patients using the medicine in which most of the ingredients are natural and available from the island. Health workers were first introduced to the island during the presidency of Ibrahim Nasir.

There is no true information about the place where they collect and remove the garbage. But it is believed that there may be no particular place for waste collection and the boundaries near beach area might have been used as spots for removal of daily household wastes.

As they had no toilets in the houses, they used the site near beach as a toilet. Later a plot enclosed with ‘fulhah’ was allocated for both men and women in the beach area.

Figure 14: Garbage was usually dumped or burned near the beach.

Figure 13: Boashi used as a herbal medicine Found mostly near the shores of the Islands here in the Maldives.

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Religion

Maldivians were practicing Buddhism until AD 1153, when a learned scholar converted the king to Islam. It is believed that since then the people of the Thulhaadhoo also converted to Islam.

The exact name and origins of this scholar is an ongoing debate. Some are of the opinion that he was a Moroccan traveller named Sheikh Abul Barakaath Yoosuful Barubaree. Others say that he was from Persia and known as Sheikh Yoosuf Shamsudheenul Thabreyzi. Mr Mohammed Ibrahim Luthufi, an acclaimed contemporary historian and researcher, claims that the name of the person who converted Maldivians to Islam was Sheikh Aburikaab Yoosuf Thabreyzi.

There had been a ziyaarai (maqaam) situated in Thulhaadhoo which was built for Yoosuf Thabreizy but it was demolished 10 years back to build a Mosque. (Kuda Ahtha, 2010)

A monument, similar to the one built in Thulhaadhoo, is found and observed in the visit to Baa atoll Kendhoo. It is believed that these buildings were built in the islands where the scholar Thabreyzi has arrived in his journey for calling Islam in the Maldives.

There were two Veyo (public bath) and two Hirigaa Mosques in the island in early days. One of the mosques is near the island court area. But these buildings were demolished to build new public places.

In early days they have given commitment to religion. Friday prayers and celebrating the important Islamic days were their priorities. The residents were non-fundamentalist Muslims and the dress code was quite liberal with traditional values although women did not wear head scarfs.

Figure 15: Buddha in a buried temple excavated on Thoddu island in Ari Atoll

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Figure 16: Monument for Yoosuf Thabreysi, at Baa Kendhoo

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Food and Water In early days the locals of Thulhaadhoo used to eat rice and “baipen� like (a soup) was prepared specially for breakfast. The other food they used includes bimbi, ussakuru and aveli. Women used the beach to wash their kitchen utensils until very recent years.

Rain water could not be collected during those days as there was thatch roof. They retained water by digging holes in the ground.

Figure 17: Rice, Main food source for Maldivians.

Figure 18: Well-water was used for drinking.

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Transport People used to travel by Sail Boats across the seas of Maldives. They used Ruku Fan to make riyaa and later used Fothi riyaa dhoni. It often takes more than 15 days to travel to Male and the duration depends on the wind direction in early days as they travelled in sail boats.

Figure 19: Male’ harbour 1879

Figure 20: Sindbad-The Sohar which was built with Ali Manikfan’s expertise and Divehi boatbuilding techniques

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Sports and Entertainment In early days citizens of Thulhaadhoo were involved in traditional sports activities which were played in the island. They played Mangalan dhandi and Dhafi during the Eid holidays, especially on Al’haa Eid.

Figure 21: Malikutarra drumming dance

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Figure 22: Rosset todu dance of maldives in 1885

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Housing Methods and Materials

Figure 23: Village on Mulaku island 1922

In early days there were separate land areas for house and kitchen which is still identified in the old town of the island. At first traditional thatch houses have been built as their homes and in the following years limestone was used as a building material while the roofs were made using eetu.

People believed that their main door of the house should be located facing the north side and they also believed that the coffins of the dead should be taken out from the north door. ( Kuda Ahtha, 2010) The land used for old Kaaduge and the Masgudhan are now replaced by Police station. The island office is built on the site where Rahvehige was once present which was used as a guest house for respected people.

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Role of Importance of The Island The island is famous for lacquer work (liyelaa jehun) and their items are popular amongst Maldivians as well as foreigners. Ah Naaib Ismail Bin Ibrahim Thakurufaan, a respected person from Thulhaadhoo, was the attorney general of Male’ in 1259 (Hijri).

During those days if a person who works in government belongs to a particular island they gave priorities to the island in many ways.

Figure 24: Thulhaadhoo is most famous for their craftman ship in Lacquerwork.

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Present

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Population Growth Everywhere around the globe we see change and development. As our small island nation is also competing in this race for development and change, many new developments and changes can be seen in the urban fabric of our island nation. Hence these changes and developments can also be seen in Thulhaadhoo.

Today Thulhaadhoo is in a state of transition between urbanized planned city lifestyle and the village island lifestyle. Imagining how Male’ the capital of our nation was 30 years back would give a better picture of how Thulhaadhoo is now.

Highlighted below is how the population of the island has grown over the past 10 years and the major developments seen in almost all the major sectors in the island.

The main reason behind these changes and development is the boost in population, as many of these modernizations came in place to cater the demands and need of the ever growing population in the island. Up to September of 2010 the total population of the island is a total of 2613, of which 1363 are male while 1250 are female and today the majority of the population is children under 18.

The graph in figure 26 shows how the population has grown over the past 10 years. Thus the demand for quality and modern services and development has also increased with it.

Figure 25: Current Population of thulhaadhoo of September 2010

Figure 26: Population growth in the past 10 years

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Topography When looking at the present Thulhaadhoo the most noticeable change is the process of how Thulhaadhoo has grown over the years. Today to cater the needs of the ever growing population and to facilitate them with better households and a better urbanized living conditions and to create a safer island the government has commenced a huge land reclamation project under the name of three island development project.

The first thing that is seen from the island facade would be the huge area of 15.1 hector of reclaimed land which is bigger than the size of which Thulhaadhoo was before this land reclamation project. Hence Thulhaadhoo has doubled its size.

All the islands in Maldives, including Thulhaadho, have significant problems regarding the environment. The most important problems are caused by:

*Sea level rise

*Extreme weather conditions

*Tsunamis

*Population pressure

*Lack of space for future development

Figure 27: One of the main road. ground is flat and level throoughout the island.

There is not much of a difference in the island level, it is almost same. Most of the islands of the Maldives are formed in a same way.

These islands are formed on a platform of reef which is named as “reef flat”.

Figure 28 shows the typical geological structure of an atoll in the Maldives. The island itself owes its origin to the deposition of shingle or coral debris during storms. The island is made up of coralline sand, partly covered with a thin layer of soil consisting of a mixture of sand and organic matter.

Figure 28: Typical geological structure of an atoll

The lack of space for future development is the major problem; caused due to the annual increase in the population.

Completetion of the reclamation project will provide the islanders with more breathing space.

The reclamation process is done 1.5m above the sea level. So after the addition of this 15 hectors of land, topography of the island is going to change.

Figure 29: Schematic diagram of typical “reef flat”

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Basic Needs of Today Waste Management Systems

Sewage system

Unlike the past, each and every house in the island now has two or more toilets. This is due to the availability of new materials and equipments and also the growing need for privacy. The waste from the toilets needs to be disposed in a way that it does not effect the people.

The sewage system used today was built by the islanders on their own in the year 1998; which is separated to ten different outlets. Each of these outlets collect sewage from houses in their respective areas. All these outlets are connected to the sea in a way that the waste flows to sea through the pipes without any other mechanism or treating the wastes.

Figure 30: Location of sewage pipeline outlets connected to the sea.

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Garbage Disposal At the time of the Survey, garbage collect from the entire island is gathered to a designated beach area in the southeast corner of the island. However, a garbage disposal site was constructed close by which is not currently in use. The site, which is currently not in use, had separate areas for sorting different types of garbage.

This area is separated from the residential by highly vegetating the area around the place..

The islanders give extreme importance to garbage disposal. Hence the site was constructed away from the general public around a highly vegetated area to tackle the problems associated with garbage such as bad odor and health issues.

The area us currently not in use because smoke from the area flows into the populated area of the island. According to the residents this is a seasonal problem as the wind shifts to flow from the southeast, carrying all the smoke in to the island.

The areas currently being used, tackles this problem by dispersing the smoke away from the populated area. However, the garbage is not

sorted out to separate, different types of garbage and everything is burnt together on the beach The main concern of disposing waste materials will be to destroy them in a way that those unwanted metal cans and plastic bags do not give any harm to our fragile environment. This method helps a lot on our main issues of disposing the garbage and waste materials. As the figure above shows the different individual materials separated into areas which are special for a kind of its own. For example the wastes which are non biodegradable are gathered and biodegradable wastes are gathered separately.

Figure 32: Plan of Garbage disposal area

LEGENDS:

Figure 31: The garbage disposal area is currently unused and covered in vegetation.

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Figure 33: Plan showing the flow of wind over the garbage disposal area, carrying smoke into the island.

-- Area used before --Area using now

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Biodegradable wastes are disposed by burning them on the area allocated for the process to take place.

Non biodegradable wastes are taken to Thilafushi.

This system is still being followed at Baa. Kendhoo, a neighbouring island.

As plastic cans and bags are being used more and more, finding ways of properly disposing them is essential to keeping the enviroment clean.

At Kendhoo, cans and plastic bottles are compressed using a manual compressing machine. once compacted, the garbage is shipped to Thilafuchi where it can be disposed in a safe manner.

Figure 34: Process of disposing waste from the island.

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Transport Thulhaindhoo is a small island which does not require much land transportation. Only a few motorcycles and bicycles were seen in the island.

As the distance from one place to another is very short, vehicles are not essential except in cases of emergencies.

However the island itself is located far from the capital Ma’e and other islands. Hence transportation via sea is of extreme importance as it has been in the past. Most common type of transportation is the local Dhoni.

The island lacks a proper harbour to accomodate the transportation need of the locals. While two jetties exist on the island, they are both in very poor condition and in dire need of repair.

Figure 35: Dhoni’s are anchored in the lagoon due to a lack of harbour.

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According to the locals, the problem of docking and getting on the island has been extremely difficult since the begining due to the absence of a proper jetty or harbour. currently the jetty can accomodate one dhoni at a time, and any extra vessel has to be docked next to that one. transfering goods and passengers this way is dangerous and difficult.

Because the government has not built an infrastructure to improve the harbour conditions of the island, the two jetties were built by the people of the island. They were built using steel framed structure and timber decking. Erosion of sand from underneath the jetty has weakend it and it is structurally unsafe for long term use.

Figure 36: The main jetty of the island, fishermet transfring the catch of the day.`

Figure 37: The second jetty is damaged and in need of repair.

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Health

Food

The island health centre which was open in the year 2007 is the only place which provides health facilities to the whole island. The health center caters for basic ilnesses and emergencies. the center has 8 beds in its general ward and a labour room.

For serious ilnesses or better medical service, locals usually attend to Male’ or the Atoll hospital in Baa, Eydhafushi.

The health center is not an adequate facility to cater fr the growing public of the island. The locals have highlited this issue and is looking forward to a better facility.

Almost all the food for the island is brought in from other islands or Male’. As the soil is very unfertile and due to the lack of land, growing their plants for food on the island is not possible. However few types of fruits and vegetables are seen on the island. other types of food are imported from abroad and brought in via Male’.

Figure 38: Health Center Baa Thulhaadhoo

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Figure 39: Few of the locally grown fruit and vegetables on the island.

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Water

Electricity

Since the 1990’s, the locals have been collecting and storing rainwater in underground tanks. as a result most of the houses have atleast one tank for storing water. the water is used fror drinking and washig, as the ground water of the island is contaminated and unhygenic.

The government initiated a project to build a desalinating plant on the island, which will provide desalinated water for everyone in 2007. The project was completed in October of the same year. however the plant is still not functional. The reson being, according to the island chief, unavailability of a trained employee to run the plant.

Power is supplied to all the houses on the island 24 hours a day by a powerhouse built by the residents of the island. The powerhouse is enough to cater for the current need of electricity for the intire public.

The power house is also located on the south side of the island away from the genral public, minimising the disturbances caused by the noisy generators.

Figure 40: Public Water tanks.

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Education Education is one of the most important factors that will affect the future of the island. If the level and quality of the education given is low then the productivity of the island will also decrease. For a better plan and better life a good education is required.

Currently there are 2 pre schools and one secondary school on the island.

The current building of Thulhaadhoo School was opened in 29th January 1993. The previous building used as the school was demolised after opening the new school. This school has a total of 16 class rooms which is enough for the current population.

Even with a decent facility for a school, obtaining skilled teachers is a major issue for the school. As a result the, according to the locals, the grades of students keep dropping and the number of students going for higher studies is decreasing.

So parents seem to be concerned about this issue and is an important issue which need to be adressed.

The school teaches up to Advance level, however due to the low number of students joining for advance level studies, it is not feasible to conduct A level class at this time.

Figure 41: Entrance to Thulhaadhoo School.

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Occupations of Thulhaadhoo

Up to the year 2009, 538 students have completed the O ‘Level exams in T hulhaidhoo. Most of the students today do not pass high enough to pursue higher studies or do not get enough oportunities to pursue higher studies. And as Thulhaadhoo is a small, developing island there are not enough jobs available to cater for them all.

Shown in the chart is the percentage of the employed population by Industry of the island by the year 2006.

For the people and children who stay in the island there are not many options available for them to get an income. Some of the occupations available in the island are boat building, construction, Raa eyrun ,roanuveyshun, fishing and Lacquer work (liyelaajehun ),etc.

But as most of these occupations are traditional occupations and requires manual labor, the youth of today tend to not go for these types of works or choose these kinds of occupations. Thus the people who continue to do these works are diminishing.

Hence it is important to take a glance at present situation of these industries and occupation before some of them disappears completely. Thus mentioned below is some information regarding these occupations and their present situations.

Figure 42: Employment, by different industries

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Tourism

With the beginning of tourism in the Maldives in 1972, this industry has grown a lot and has spread all across the nation. Today almost every Maldivian is directly or indirectly involved in this industry. Thus tourism is considered as the one of major source of income for the country.

Likewise main income generator of the present Thulhaadhoo is the tourism industry as there have been developments of quite a number of islands as resorts close by. Highlighted in the map below is the all the resorts in the atoll. Thus the development of these resorts has opened many doors for the people of this island. One of these is the door to a whole new job market. Today these resorts offer numerous jobs to the people of Thulhaadhoo and this atoll.

Hence almost every family of the island is directly or indirectly involved in the tourism Industry.

Figure 43: Location of Various resorts operating in Baa atoll.

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Boat Building Figure 44: A boat under construction in a haruge.

Boat building is a fast growing industry in the island. Today there are three boat building sites in the island dedicated to this industry, south beach side area, the west beach side area and North east beach side area. 20.1, 20.2 20.3 shown in figure 45 shows these sites respectively.

Although this is a fast growing industry in the island the majority of the people working in this field are not from Thulhaadhoo. They are mostly from Raa atoll Meedhoo and Inguraidhoo. According to people who work in this business, the main reason behind this is for the ease of handling the workers, as the local people would have other social obligations and would slow down the work process.

Figure 45: Locations of Boatyards.

Vegetation

20.2

21.2

Industrial Zone

21.1

12.3

10.1

20.1-20.3 Boat Building Site

N 5.5

12.1

12.4

5.1

3

5.3

9 8

5.2

19.1

12.2

6 11.3

7

19.2

1

2

20.3 15

14

5.4

10.2 11.1 13

4 22

12.5

Vegetation

16 20.1 20.2

21.2

18

17

Industrial Zone

11.2

21.1

12.3

10.1

20.1-20.3 Boat Building Site

5.5

12.1

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12.4

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9

6

12.2

Figure 46: Inside a haruge’ on the north east side of the island.

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Fishing Like most of the islands of Maldives, one of the main occupations of the island is fishing. The main method of fishing used in the island is pole and line tuna fishing. This method of fishing requires catching bait from the inner atoll.

There are three types of fishing been done in the island. They are: • Skipjack tuna, which take the fishermen out to the ocean 30 – 100 km west on day trips, the fish is cooked and dried, and sold in Malé.

About 100 fishermen are involved.

• Yellow fin tuna, caught in the Atolls all over the Maldives, the fish is taken fresh to canning factories in or near Malé. About 50 people are involved.

• Reef fisheries within the Baa atoll, from Thulhaadhoo outwards, the catch is mainly sold to resorts, with about 20 people active. (hydronamic bv , 2009)

Figure 47: A Small boat (bokkuraa) used for reef fishing.

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At present there is a total number of 8 fishing dhonis in the island and several fish processing areas. Most of these areas can be seen on the North West beach side of the island (refer island zoning map). The reason behind these processing areas being located in North West beach side of the island is the presence of the jetties used mainly by the fisherman of the island. The main types of fish processing done are : • Making smoked fish by cooking and drying the fish by sun drying or wood smoking.

• Salted fish • Making of “Rihaakuru “

Figure 48: Pole and line fishing, most common type of fising in the country and the island.

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Raa Erun

Ruh erun or raa erun is the traditional method of making a non alcoholic drink or a wine from the coconut palm. From the time of our forefathers raa erun has been practiced in the Maldives using traditional methods and tools. Even today these tools and methods are being used and practiced.

Shown in figure 49, are some of the tools used in the trade.

The craft is on the verge of extinction from the island as only one person remains in the trade. The main reasons behind the lack of people involved is the lack of number of coconut palms and the lack of demand for this business in the island.

Figure 49: Some equipments and techniques used in Raa erun

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Roanu Veshun “Roanu veshun” known as the making of coir rope has been practiced in thulhaadhoo for a long time and has been passed down from generation to generation. The beginning of Roanu veshun is unclear, however evidence of Roanu being used can be seen by taking a glance at the traditional thatch houses of Maldives.

From the ancient times and to the present day roanu veshun is considered as a woman’s job. Even today roanu veshun is practiced mostly by the women of Thulhaadhoo. Nevertheless, only few women are seen taking part in this occupation compared to the time of our forefathers. Hence this occupation is also in danger of extinction from the island.

As the skill requires hard work and labor, the craft is not popular with the youth of the island and the number of people practicing the skill is rapidly decreasing.

Figure 50: Coconut Husk, Main Material in roanu.

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Figure 51: Making Coir rope.

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Lacquer Work (Liyelaa Jehun ) The people of Thulhaadhoo are involved in the traditional Maldivian art of lacquer work and are in fact famous throughout the Maldives for it. This craftwork is one of the major occupation for the people of Thulhaadhoo.

The exact origin of this work or art in thulhaidhoo is unknown. According to craftsman who work in this industry , this craft is believed to have been originated from India or Bangladesh. This form of art work was brought to Maldives by our ancestors or forefathers during their travels to those countries. Even “laa�, the main ingredient used in the making of the dye for the decorations in the lacquer work has been imported from India throughout history.

In the ancient times lacquer work was considered as a scared art and only a few were masters of this art.

This has changed with time and almost every man in the island is familiar with the skills of this craft.

Figure 52: Various steps in lacquer work.

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Analysis of Island

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Zoning

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The island of Thulhaadhoo is a very quiet and serene island having enough service centres and shops to fulfill the basic needs of the residents. Although this island accommodates 2613 residents, the roads and public spaces are very much empty giving a feeling of tranquility and harmony. The only spaces occupied most of the time during the day are the sports courts which are utilized for school purposes and the hut (12.1) present on the beach area.

Almost all the early constructions of the island are of single storey buildings. This makes the sky look huge spreading over the land creating a delightful view from any chosen angle. However, later constructions now involve buildings of two to three storeys. The highest building found on the island at present is a residential building of four storeys, which is also under construction.

All the blocks of the island are laid orthogonally except for the blocks that make up the Old town. Having the maximum number of blocks; 26, in a zone smaller than that of other areas, this town has its own intricacy with its blocks irregular and roads constricted. This town can be signified as the mother of the island, being the initial start up of living which gradually expanded to a form which makes up the present structure of the island.

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Figure 53: Zoning map of thulhadhoo.

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North East Area The north east area of the island is the area having the minimum number of residences and is the most peaceful among other regions of the island. As most of the large spaces in this area are utilized by the government and the community for beneficial purposes, noise is at a minimum, ontributing to the quiet atmosphere of this sector.

Figure 54: Location & Site plan of North East Area.

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The North East zone of the island is vastly vegetated along the beach area having shrubs equal to the amount of large trees. Most of them are ‘magoo’ and young coconut palms planted by the locals of the island.

The open ground at the tip of this area is used as a football field whereas the block that follows accommodates the Health centre. Although the Health centre ground is massive, not much greenery is observed. Only small plants forming a miniature garden contributes to the aesthetic values of the centre.

A hut present at the North beach area in front of the health centre is normally used by the elders of the island during the day time. It is the largest public recreational zone present on the island and is a construction of later generations.

Figure 55: Hut used by the locals of Thulhaadhoo

Figure 56: Health centre

Figure 57: Football field

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Figure 58: The only saloon present in the island

Figure 59: Construction of a boat at the boat yard

Figure 60: Cafe’ used by most of the youngsters

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At the East tip of the island is a Boat Yard, where generally fishing dhoni’s are constructed. It is said that all the constructions of ‘dhonis’ are done by people from other islands in order to prevent the slow work process and carelessness towards labor.

The following block towards the East side is a court used by women to play ‘bashi’. This court is also used by students for extra activities after school hours. There are also considerable amount of shops in this area of the island ranging from clothing shops to convenient stores. Most of the shops do not have a particular sales target. Hence they sell all range of goods in their stores for convinence of the public.

The blocks of this area are proportional in arrangement and have comfortable road widths for travel and circulation. Even though there are many service centres and public community zones, this area is peaceful with the sound of moving air and waves on the beach shore, giving a sense of pleasure and relaxation.

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Figure 61: Main Harbour on the north side of the island.

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Figure 62: A typical house in the northeast area of the island, showing a transition from old materials to new.

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South East A rea

South East area of the island consisting generally of utility and community zones is the simplest area of the island. Having the least number of blocks and little vegetation, this sector is calm and soothing.

However, during the school hours this region is seemingly brisk and lively.

Figure 63: Location & Site plan of South East Area.

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The South East area of the island has important community zones such as the School, Cemetery, Power house and Waste management site. The school, which was built in 1980, takes up more than one quarter of the area.

Even though the area lacks in vegetation, the school is noticeably green and has the largest and the oldest tree on the island. This school is comparatively larger than those normally found in other islands of Maldives.

Garbage from the entire island is collected at the Waste management site which is located away from the general public at the North East tip of the island. The South East corner near the Waste management site is also highly vegetated due to which any undesirable smell is barred from making its way inside the land and also to create a space separating the inhabited plots from the waste management area.

One of the two communication towers on the island is also located in this area. The power house and the Fuel tank is located in an open ground in the South side of the area.

The only motor garage present on the island is located near the cemetery of this South East zone. This is because of the lack in need for such services today as there are only about two vehicles in use today. But unlike other areas, this area of the island doesn’t consist of any shops. However there are stores at walking distance on the South west side.

Among the two ‘Mas ashi’ present on the South side, this area has one space where the process of ‘mas hikkun’ is carried out.

Walking on the South side of the island is easier compared to the North side. Roads of this area are about the same width of around 5ft, having a difference of no more than a foot or two. The only path contradicting is the road leading to the mosque which is unsuitable for vehicle transportation due to its zigzag and tapered composition. The School being a later addition in the island reasons for this narrow unsymmetrical road.

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Figure 64: Cemetry

Figure 65: An abandoned mosque

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Figure 66: Thulhaadhoo School

Figure 67: Fish drying area

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South West Area

South west side of the island encompasses the main government offices present on the island. These offices are located at a closer range with each other.

Unlike other sectors of the island, this sector has little green spaces and trees scattered within the residential area.

Figur 68: Location & Site plan of South West Area.

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Figure 69: Mosque on the main road.

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The South west side of the island has some of the important zones such as MDP office, Island Office, Island Court, Pre School and cooking gas supplier.

Cooking gas supplier is located in the same block as the island court and is the only place in the island supplying gas to the public. This area of the island seems to have an average amount of vegetation through out the whole zone. Anyhow there is no such zone that can be marked as highly vegetated or lacking in vegetation.

A hollow block plant is situated on an open space created at the end of the South west area. Three separate courts for sports; ‘bashi’ and football are also located near this site.

Two centres, one for Quran and the other for school tuitions are present on two adjacent blocks of this area. A number of shops are also seen on this side of the island, selling goods as well as clothing.

At the west end tip of the island, on the end of the bodu magu are ‘holhuashi’ and some seating ideal for both children and adults.

All the streets and the pathways of this zone are ideal for transportation and pedestrian circulation. Although the roads are spacious compared to other areas, there are neither noticeable noise nor traffic except for during the starting and finishing of school hours.

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Figure 70: A hut used by the youth of the island

Figure 71: The only gas supplying store present in the island

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Figure 72: Police station

Figure 73: Thulhaadhoo court

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Figure 74: Holhuashi situated at the north west beach area

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North West Area

North West area of the island with its swarming character is the most crammed area of the island.

Comprising of almost all the lacquer workshops and important societal zones, this sector is indisputably noisy and very dynamic in nature. Most of the creative work done in the island is also carried out within this region of the island.

Figure 75: Location & Site plan of North West Area.

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Figure 76: The edge of the old town, showing

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The North West area is comparatively high in vegetation compared to the other areas of the island. The vast majority of shops and workshops are also situated in this area, having lacquer workshops, carpentries and MDP haruge for instance.

The only cyber cafĂŠ and saloon present in the island for both men and women is also located in the central North area of the island. It is evident that even with a single outlet of these services, people of the island seeks their service on a regular basis. Consequently profiting the owners as there are no other competitors in the business.

Among the three boat yards, the North West tip which is the highest vegetated area of the island contains the most prevalent boat yard present on the island. The North beach of the zone is also a green space having holhuashi areas situated at two different places, at the north end near the mosque and at the west edge of the ‘bodumagu’.

The roads of this area are not consistent as in the other areas. While some of the paths seem narrow and short, other roads are broad and longer. The blocks in the center of the island known as the Old town are highly distinct in nature to other constructions in the island. Nevertheless, this town has the most number of shops and service centres present in this area. And this town as it had, still functions as a separate town with their services and basic needs available within the interior of the town.

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Figure 77: MDP haruge

Figure 78: Fish laid to dry on Mas Ashi

Figure 79: Holhuashi area

Figure 80: Sitting area present at the end of Bodumagu

Figure 81: Men working at lacquer workshop

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Figure 82: Beach near west boatyard.

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Figure 83: A relaxing environment facing the north beach of the island

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Old Town

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The old town of the island is believed to be the space where people first started living on the island. The blocks of the town are irregular and the roads very narrow. This is because of the first settlers who built their shelters so close by each other, and did not have any plans for further developments at that time.

Houses in this town have their kitchens, toilets and the living area separated by the roads created during the development of the island. Some houses have the kitchen area at the opposite edge of the living room across the road. It is said that before the houses were built alike with different spaces of the house separating the main living room.

Even after much development of the island, this town remains the same. Some of the elders left their house to move in with their children due to which many of the homes in the town today are left uninhabited. And almost all the residents want to rebuild their plot of land.

Figure 84: Location & Site plan of Old Town.

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East Side of The Block

The East elevation of the old town shows the similarity in the material usage and the comparable structure maintained in construction of houses. The material used by each residence being limestone and coral reasons for the similar shades of grey observed on the exterior walls.

Comprising of only a few windows and no entrances on the East side, this elevation of the town accounts for the strong belief of the residents to have their doorways facing towards North. This face of the town also lacks seating and green zones which are usually seen on the North and South side.

Figure 85: East Side of block

West Side of The Block

The west elevation of the town is noticeably darker in color and has a complex texture compared to the east side. This is believed to be caused by the late afternoon heat that falls on this face of the town resulting in the growth of algae.

Although the main entrance is present on the North side, there are a very few houses having a side entrance facing the west faรงade. And most of the houses have ropes aligned on this face of the town which is used to dry their washed clothes. Similar to the East face, the West side of the town also lacks in seating areas and greenery.

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Figure 86: West Side of block

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Figure 87: Inside the old town.

Traditinal house next to a more recent house.

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Green Space

As this town doesn’t have enough space for huge trees, they had little green spaces created at the interior of the house. These spaces which are one of the key factors for the ventilation in the area were either open or separated by a low boundary wall. Most of the houses had ‘copy fai’ planted near the exterior wall of the house, and some houses had lemon tree and papaya trees.

Figure 88: Plan of Old Town, showing green space

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Vehicular Circulation

The narrow uneven roads aren’t used by vehicles as they find it difficult either to park or to drive ahead.

Only about two roads within the town area are used by motor bikes as it is easier and wider than the rest of the paths. Travel by a vehicle through the other roads of the blocks are uncomfortable as they have to ride in a zigzag motion in every two three minutes of travelling. Therefore they use the pathways which are straighter and leads from the main road to the second widest street of the island.

The residents are also aware of the usual paths taken by the vehicles and therefore the people of the society make way to any moving vehicle without any hesitation.

Figure 89: Plan of Old town, Showing vehicular circulation .

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Pedestrian Circulation

Despite the roads being so narrow, it does not make one feel crammed inside these blocks. Due to the single storey buildings constructed in the town, the blue sky stretching above the island is seen so extensively giving the feeling of openness. The open spaces found in the town also accounts for this sensation. Residents find the spatial organization of the town normal, and easily walk around the town.

However, they also use the easier and wider roads to move about from a space to another.

Figure 90: Plan of Old town, Showing Pedestrian Circulation.

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Figure 91: A typical Road inside the old town.

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Air Circulation

Even though the roads seem to lack symmetry, air circulation is efficient within these blocks. And the wind that blows into these blocks is considerably cooler than the wind blowing through the broad and wide roads. This is because of the funneling of wind through the blocks leading to the smaller and narrow roads.

During the different times of the day, blocks being so close by, casts a shadow on the narrow roads keeping the pathways even cooler and shaded most of the time. This also contributes to the cooling effect created through out this area.

Figure 92: Plan of Old town, Showing Air Circulation.

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Figure 93: One of the 2 mosques in the old town.

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Analysis of Block

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C

B.THULHAADHOO

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B

Figure 94: Location and Site plan of Block

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B.THULHAADHOO

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Block

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The old town consists of irregularly arranged blocks with narrow pathways running in different directions. A detailed analysis of a block in this town gives an insight into how the old town must have functioned. The block consists of 3 separate blocks of irregular shape converging to form a single block, forming narrow pathways running through the center of the block for access into houses in the center.

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Plot Layout A detailed survey of a block from the old town gives an idea of how homes were allocated and built in the past and the changes it has undergone. When the layout of the plots is analyzed it is noticed that the toilets and kitchens are often separate from the main houses. This creates a tangled look of interconnecting houses with invisible or mild boundaries separating private and public spaces.

Public pathways often run in-between houses and their kitchens of toilets. Further reducing public and private boundaries.

Information gathered from the residents reveal that traditionally plots were assigned without any plan whenever a resident requested for it. Hence they built close by to other houses as everyone depended on each other for basic needs and survival. Kitchen was built away from the main house as a precaution against the spread of fire and toilets were usually built next to or near the kitchen.

As the town grew in population and in number of houses the area between kitchen and main house has become public pathways or roads.

Figure 95: PLan of Block Sshowing layout and distribution of plots

EB

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AB

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EG A B

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AG DB LG

MB MG

LB KB

Main house separate from kitchen and toilet.

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KG L

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Public pathways cutting in-between house and toilet and kitchen.

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This arrangement still seems to be working as the town is very close knit and residents still depend on their neighbors for various needs. The soft boundaries seem to welcome everyone to other’s homes, creating a strong social connection between the people of the community.

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Breathing Spaces At first glance the plan seems to be very crowded and congested.

Even navigating through the block is difficult for a newcomer as public pathways blend in with private properties. However the closely built environment does not give a feeling of congestion, instead it creates a cozy social atmosphere. The narrow public pathways also become semi private spaces where residents gather and socialize. The main contributing factor preventing the block from feeling crowded is the presence of abandoned houses and small plants which acts as breathing spaces inside the block. Even the pathways do not seem to have a fixed width, caused by unplanned allocation of plots and errors in alignment. The irregular pathways contribute to tackle the problem of congestion by allowing more breathing space into the block.

Figure 98: Plan of block showing open spaces

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Figure 96: Open spaces create breathing spaces inside the block

Figure 97: Small potted plants create a relaxing enviroment inside the block

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Open spaces inside the block

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Pathways

Figure 99: Plan of a pathway in the block.

The space created by irregular layout of houses on both sides of the pathways are often used by the residents for personal use, however this space opens up the narrow pathways, making it more roomy and comfortable to navigate inside the block.

Figure 100: The excess room created by the setback of the house is used for various purposes and adds to the total width of the path

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Figure 101: The iregular path is used as a space for socialising and relaxing.

Figure 102: A domestic water tank placed on an open space alongdside a path.

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Figure 103: A Pathway inside the block

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Wind The pathways help maintain a comfortable atmosphere inside the block by allowing for ventilation. The two wide roads on east and west side of the block supply sea breeze into the block throughout the day. The low height of the buildings and the pathways supply air into the block and maintain it as a cozy atmosphere even during the hottest period of the day.

Depending on the season, the wind direction is usually from east to west or west to east. In both cases the wind is funneled from the wide roads on east and west side of the block through the pathways.

Some inner locations of the block are noticed to be breezier than other places. This is assumed to be because of open spaces around these spots and multiple pathways converging to form a single path creating a funneling effect.

Figure 104: Plan of block showing Circulation of wind inside the block.

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Figure 105: Internal pathways of the block are iregular and narrow.

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Circulation The atmosphere inside is calm and relaxing. Mainly due to the absence of any noise generating points. There are no commercial or industrial outlets and the motor traffic is negligible. The widest pathways are about 5 feet in width. The internal pathways are too narrow for vehicles; hence only pedestrians use it. Motorbikes sometimes use the two pathways on north and south side of the blocks but it is kept to a minimum and has no significant effect on the internal atmosphere of the block. These two pathways are mostly used by pedestrians to move across the block as it gives a shortcut from one side of the block to the other side. The internal passages are wide enough for a single person to move hence traffic is minimum. The absence of traffic and limited pedestrian traffic makes the inside of the block very quiet and peaceful.

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Roads Used by all vehicles.

Pathways Used by motorbikes and bicycles.

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Vehicular Circulation

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Figure 107: Plan of block showing circulation of pedestrians.

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Vehicular traffic is moderate even on the main roads. As there are very few 4 wheeler vehicles on the island the only sound of traffic is the occasional motorbike. Pedestrians also frequent the main roads. However pedestrian traffic is also low throughout the day and especially during midday when it is hottest. Traffic increases around the block during the evening from around 4 to 6 when residents come out to socialize at various points on the roads. Playing children are also a common sight during this time.

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Figure 108: Sketch of main road west of the block

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Orientation The inner pathways of the block are shaded most of the time due to the narrow width and the closely built houses. The overhangs of roofs and additional overhangs built at various locations also prevent direct sunlight into the walkways. Even during the hottest period of the day the inside of the block is comfortable because of the shade and the breeze funneled by the narrow pathways.

Closely packed houses, narrow paths and overhangs block the harsh sun while letting in sunlight forming and maintaining an ideal environment inside the block.

Figure 109: Sunpath over the block

Figure 110: Overhangs block most of the sunlight.

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Figure 111: Overhangs shade the pathways throughout the day.

Figure 112: Overhangs shade the pathways throughout the day.

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Topography The land is generally flat and level. However it is noted that the houses are often below the ground level of the pathways. It is likely that the pathways have become higher due to the addition of extra soil over a long period of time. The difference in level might become a problem during rainy season; residents have tackled this by building a low wall (olhigandu) from timber or building blocks.

Olhigandu

Exterior Ground Level

MM

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Interior Groud level

Figure 113: A Section of an entrance to a house showing the difference in ground level of exterior and interior.

Figure 114: A Section through the block. The ground is generally flat and level throughout the block.

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Architecture The entire block consists of only single story residential houses. Most of the houses are old houses, which have undergone various changes through out its life. Temporary solutions to tackle problems as they arise have become part of architecture and tends to give these houses a unique character. Only a few traditional houses exist in the block, and even they have adapted to the changing society and incorporated new technologies and materials. These houses have gained extensions and additions to the existing old structure, which constantly evolves to accommodate the change in the basic needs of the residents.

Most of the entrance to the house face north. According to the residents, it is a cultural belief that the main entrance must face north.

They superstitiously believe that when a person is deceased, the coffin with the body must leave the house from the north side, hence the main door is almost always located on the north side of the plot.

Placing the entrance on the north side has an unintended benefit as well. North side is shaded and protected compared to the sides, from strong monsoon winds, and sun. It is likely that the tradition of placing the entrance to the north is tied with basic need of protection from the elements.

Main materials used in the architecture of the houses are coral and coral limestone. This is consistent with Maldivian Vernacular architecture, compromising of use of locally available materials and techniques.

Asbestos roofing sheets have been utilised in a lot of houses.

Clay Tiles are common in roofing, however being replaced by new materials in roofing.

Figure 115: West side facade of the block, showing main materials used in the construction.

Wall finished wth coral limestone mortar

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Walls built with Coral and coral limestone mortar.

Locally available timber, used to make doors and windows.

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Elevations

Elevation A

Elevation B

Elevation C

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Figure 116: Elevations.

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Elevation E

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Figure 117: Elevations.

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Figure 118: Temporary solutions to tackle problems become permanent and adds a unique character to the architecture of the houses.

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Water & Sewer The island has a sewage disposal system built by the people. All the houses in the block are connected by this system, which carries all sewage material out to the sea. Pipes are laid underground which lead to collection tanks, which are in turn connected out to the sea at various locations around the island.

Water is available for the public at public water tanks where residents are required to collect the water themselves. Most of the houses have water tanks for collection of rainwater, which is used for drinking and washing. The ground water is salty and polluted and unsuitable for drinking.

Water Tanks

Figure 119: Domestic water tanks used to collect and store rain water.

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Acoustics Internal area of the block is very quiet and calm due to the absence of any noise generating points. Since the entire block consists of only residential houses the only sound inside the block comes from these houses. An occasional motorbike may cross the north and the south pathways creating some noise, but it becomes negligible when compared to the calmness throughout the day inside the block.

The two wider roads on east and west side of the block are used by traffic. However, since the motor traffic on the island is very low, the noise level is moderate through out the day. The roads and the pathways are quiet most of the time of the day, due to the lack of traffic and any other activities.

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Noise from vehicles.

Noise from vehicles.

Noise from vehicles.

Noise from vehicles.

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Waste Management

Electricity

The interior paths and the roads surrounding the block are impeccably clean. The women clean the streets and pathways daily, usually in the early morning just before sunrise. Waste is taken to a designated location on the south side of the island.

Electricity is supplied to all the homes of the block via underground cables laid throughout the block. The power plant is located on the south side of the island and is run and operated by the people of the island. Even the most traditionally built houses have been supplied with electricity bringing past together with present technology.

Figure 121: Garbage disposal area on the island

B.THULHAADHOO

Figure 122: Electrical appliences in the most primitive and traditional homes.

Surveyed Block

Garbage Disosal area

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Light The main roads on either side of the block are well lit with street lamps, however the interior of the block does not have any light source except from the houses.

The block is transformed from a calm and cozy atmosphere to a dark and eerie environment at night. As there are almost no lights in the pathways the only source of light comes from the houses, which is not enough to light the pathways. The atmosphere is very different from day and is not as relaxed as during the day.

The residents, however, are comfortable and familiar with the environment. An outsider will not be comfortable walking the narrow pathways during the night due to the lack of light sources and the ghostly atmosphere.

No light source in the pathways, except from hoouses.

Well lit road Well lit road

No light source in the pathways, except from hoouses.

01 Figure 123: Light sources around the block

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Vernacular Architecture

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Kanmathee Irumatheege Kanmathee Irumatheege is a residential house located on the west side of the labyrinth like residential block. Built over 60 years ago and as with other houses in the area, this house has undergone changes over the years. However it has retained some of the qualities and features of the traditional planning, layout and materials.

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Figure 124: Sketch of Kanmathee Irumatheeruge’

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Plan When the plan of the house is analyzed, it is noted that various changes have been made in how the spaces are utilized. The main entrance faces north, which is consistent with many houses and of the island. North side is the most protected side from monsoon winds rain and the sun. The main entrance is about 5 and half feet. The low height could be to minimize the amount of materials used and due to the low height of the roof. The sloping low roof deflects the wind protecting the building.

The house is divided into 9 areas. 2 Kotari (Bed rooms), Beyruge (Sitting room), Etherege (Bedroom), Kaage (Dining Room), Gifili (Toilet), Badhige (Kitchen), Bandahage (store room) and an open area between the kitchen and the Etherege.

This area is assumed to be the fenda, in the original design

Assumed to be a later addition for the house.

Figure 125: Plan of kanmathee Irumatheege’

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An extra room added, which did not exist in the original plan

Main entrance leads into the Beyruge. The interior is dim but not dark. It is quiet, calm and relaxing. There is a distinct difference in the outside and the inside. The small door separating public and private space creates a passageway between these two spaces. The traditional materials used in the construction of the house imply that the building is old and has a unique history of its own. Coral and uwa (Coral limestone) are the main components of the walls. The floor is covered in white sand, which creates a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere. The walls are unfinished, hence the texture adds to the aesthetic values while showing the structural backbone of the building.

On either side of the entrance are 2 rooms used as bedrooms.

Minor differences in the materials and the techniques used in the construction of these rooms show that these two rooms were not in the original plan and were added later.

An extra room added, which did not exist in the original plan

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Figure 126: Plan of kanmathee Irumatheege’

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The path leads to the Beyruge (sitting room), a swing hangs from the roof frame the Bodu Ashi dominates the eastern side of the room.

Bodu ashi, a wooden multipurpose platform, was traditionally used for practically everything. Sleeping, dining, sitting and working. The area underneath the bodu ashi is used mainly for storage.

The interior of the beyruge is cozy. Streaming light from glass tiles in the roof adds a feeling of mysteriousness. The unfinished coral walls bounce the light rays in different directions creating textures and colors of their own bringing life to the interior. The space resonates with energy from the past guiding the thought as to how it must have functioned in at the beginning of its life.

Overhead, is the bare structure of the roofing frame, a consistent feature of traditional design. The creativity of traditional workers is seen in the construction methods of the past using only handheld primitive tools. Locally available timber structure is rigid and protects the occupants by supporting the roof.

Figure 127: Plan of kanmathee Irumatheege’

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A door on the west side of Beyruge leads into the Etherege (Master bedroom). The comparatively small room is more intimate. The experience of the interior space addresses to the movement of the body due to the small space and the small entrance to the room. Here too, the walls are unfinished, continuing the theme of the house.

The south side exit from the Etherege leads outdoors to a courtyard.

The kitchen is separate from the main house and accessed through the courtyard. A small dining room is built next to the main house, believed to be a later addition, as this is not a feature of traditional Maldivian Architecture. The materials in the construction of the dining room are different from the rest of the building conforming this fact. A toilet is opposite the dining room, also believed to be a later addition, as toilets did not exist in traditional plans. The kitchen is smaller in height and space than the main house. The stand-alone building of the kitchen has an area for storage and cooking accessible through 2 separate doors.

Initially when the house was built, the only components of the building would have been a Veranda, Beyruge, Etherege and separate structure for a kitchen. All the other elements were added later as the need of the occupants grew. The original plan would have been enough to cater for the basic need at that time and presumably would have created a much more cozy and relaxing atmosphere. The additional rooms have blocked or hindered ventilation and light to some parts of the house.

Figure 128: Plan of kanmathee Irumatheege’

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Orientation

Traditionally houses were oriented to face north. Given the local weather conditinos in both seasons, north side is the most protected side from the harsh sun and winds of both seasons. Hence it is highly likely that the practice of facing the main entrance to north is related to protection from the elements.

One other explanation given by the locals is, that the body of a deseased must leave the house through the north side. This could be an ideology evolved to fit the understanding of locals, who based many of their beliefs on religion and superstitions rather than scientific explanations.

East

Northeast monsoon winds and rain.

North Main Entrance is on north Side.

South

West

Southwest monsoon winds and rain.

Figure 129: Orientation of Kanmathee Irumatheege’

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The doors, windows and the void in the house assist in cross ventilation.

The interior is felt to be cool and comfortable. The first 2 rooms near the entrance have large windows, which bring in outside air to cool the room. The windows are later additions, which did not exist in the first plan. Windows connect the bedroom on west side, Etherege and the dining room, which circulates air from the north and the south side. In addition to windows, small openings over the doors and windows also assist in ventilating these rooms. The area under the roof is also open without a ceiling; hence air circulates in this area in the main structure of the house. The void in-between the house and the kitchen help to ventilate the entire house. The toilet does not have a roof and hence is self ventilating.

Consistent with tradition building methods there were no opening on the east and the west side, which experience the harshest weather conditions.

In the original plan, without the 2 bedrooms and the additional dining room and toilet, the house would have been even breezier and comfortable. The addition of these rooms has hindered ventilation to some amount.

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Ventilation

Figure 130: Ventilation through the house.

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Vegetation

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Figure 131: Vegetation- Kanmathee Irumatheege’

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The house lacks in vegetation, mainly due to the lack of available space. There are a few potted plants outside on either side of the main entrance. These plants give the house a lively and friendly look. They also give the correct impression, that the house is occupied and lively.

The only other form of vegetation in the house is in the open-air toilet.

These are also just over 5 feet tall and do not provide shade. However they contribute in cleaning the air through out the house.

The house on the opposite side of the main road has a large breadfruit tree, creating a large green spot in the area. In addition, a small stone apple plant and a guava plant exist on the opposite side of the main road.

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The doors in the house are about 5 and half feet. They provide access from one room to another. Pathways with invisible boundaries are created in front of these rooms joining one space to another.

The pathways are generally kept clear from furniture’s and other obstructions, however the swing in the beyruge is at the center of a path running the length of the house. This obstruction requires a person to alter his path to move across the room. It is likely that the position of the swing has been changed from a prior location. Or the problem arose due to the construction of additional rooms on either side of the entrance, narrowing the pathway.

Other than the mentioned problem, the internal circulation paths are comfortable to move across and provide transition from one space to another conveniently. Through out the interior the floor is at a constant level blending in different rooms together creating a similar experience.

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Internal Circulation

Figure 132: Internal Circulation Kanmathee Irumatheege’

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A main road runs the length of the west side of the house, which is used by vehicles and pedestrians. Vehicular traffic is low due to the low number of vehicles on the island. A secondary entrance is placed on the west side of the house accessible through the main road.

Only pedestrians use the 2 narrow pathways on the North and the South side of the house. Compared to the main road, pedestrian traffic is low due to the low population of the block and the narrow width of the paths.

The path on the north side gives access to the main entrance of the house. Transition from public to private space is achieved through a small entrance of about 5 and half feet. The interior is lower by about 6 inches than the pathway, which further emphasizes the difference in the 2 spaces.

N

External Circulation

Figure 133: External Circulation Kanmathee Irumatheege’

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Architecture

Traditional building materials and methods have been used in the house. The sloped roof, coral walls, timber roof frame, small doors and windows are some of the features, which are consistent with traditional vernacular architecture.

Main materials in the walls are coral and limestone.

Coral is mined from the reef around the island and the limestone mortar used, is made by burning coral. These highly durable materials have been utilized all over the Maldives for construction of houses. The roof frame is constructed of locally available timber, mainly coconut wood. The arrangement of the different elements of the roof frame is typical of traditional design.

Vas Vakaru (Ridge Board)

Dhon Veli (White Sand) Huras Vakaru (Joist) Ari Vakaru (Top Plate)

Eatu (Clay Roof Tiles)

Thona Kani / Vas Kani (Hanger) Fai dhoh (Rafter)

Thelhigaa Faaru (Coral Wall)

Figure 134: Section - Kanmathee Irumatheege’

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Future

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Government Plans Under a government project, titled the three island project, thulhadhoo is to be developed in to a larger and safer community zone in its atoll. This will be achieved by reclaiming land and protecting the existing island and the reclaimed land with new revetments. The aproach is to build an enviromentally safer island which wil contribute to the social and economic growth of the entire atoll.

The project has already begun, and 16 hactor of land has been reclaimed. The island will be developed according to a land use plan developed by the government, which will ensure appropriate allocation of land for residential, social, commercial and industrial zones.

Some of the problems created due to the unplanned city growth of the island has been addressed in the new plan of the island.

Blocks for new homes as well as considerable space for circulation and breathing space has been allocated in the city plan.

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Existing Island

Proposed Land Use

Figure 135: Map of Thulhaadhoo with proposed plan of new town.

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New Opportunities

The new town has a modern soccer field which could bring a new environment for the youth of the island.

The open green buffer zones allocated around the new city will protect the island from strong winds and continue to add to the feeling of island life.

The public housing units will be able to cater for immigrants from other islands and locals as well.

The allocation of industrial zones will ensuer the creation of new job oportunities for the residents of the islands. Open spaces for public use will be essential for the well being of the towns residents, giving them places to relax and unwind.

While the new plan focuses mainly on developing a totaly new town right next to the existing island, not much attention has been given to change or incorporate any additinoal features into the existing island.

The developments that will come through the planned city growth will create more opportunities to the island such as proper level of education, more job opportunities and thereby improving the economy of the island.

Industrial zone, will ensure the creation of new jobs and oppotunities for the island A modern socer field, address to the need of a proper playing field for the youth of the island.

Green area will protect the island from strong winds while maintaining the feel of island life.

Large areas for drainage will be required because the new town will be higher than the existing island.

Community zones will be essential to the public to unwind and relax in the city.

Residential zone and public housing units will be able to cater for new immigrants and locals from the island.

Revetment to protect the reclaimed land from erosion.

Figure 136: Proposed map of new town.

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Conclusion

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The island of Thulhaadhoo has a unique identity of its own. Created from a history of friendship and warm hospitality, a unique structure of the plan of the island and the inimitable handicraft work known as lacquer work or liyelaa jehun.

Today as the island ventures far in the race against urbanization and development, there are many changes and modernization taking place all around the island. As everything has its merits and demerits, these changes brought with the developments have its own consequences.

Even after much advancements of the island there still remain some fragments from the past, which are the only remaining cultural and architectural heritage in the island. However, these structures, vulnerable and somewhat ruined are questioned by the locals whether to be retained or to be destroyed. The answer to this question would not only decide the fate of the block but also of the whole island. If the block were to be destroyed the people of Thulhaadhoo would lose their one and only architectural and historical landmark on the island, on the other hand, if the block were to be kept as it is, there is the chance of this area becoming a slum.

Nevertheless, the town has its own architectural values and traditional construction techniques seen within its structures. And demolishing the town would also result in the disappearance of the islands habitual construction record. These methods practiced during the early days are intriguing and hence, is worth preserving.

The island has been growing without a plan and the changes in the name of development brought by the people has had led to various consequences. If it were to continue in this pattern the developments that came with these urbanizations would lead the island to a failed urban development just like the capital of Maldives, Male’.

To overcome comparable issues government has proposed a development strategy for the island. However, this plan along with its positive outcomes focuses only in developing a newly reclaimed land right next to the existing island. To tackle the issues faced by the people of the island, any new plan has to address the existing issues in the existing island.

In order to create a successful and healthy land, these issues are identified and with the aid of further research proper sustainable solutions can be given.

Thulhaadhoo with much of positivity and life dwelling can have a future better than anticipated. This would require the will of the people and proper planning of sustainable urbanization, which are both eco friendly and does not destroy the cultural values and the lifestyle of the island.

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Recommendations

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Old Town The old town, hastily declining in state and loosing its identity due to the rapid urbanization of the island is an important issue, which needs to be addressed when developing a future a plan for the island.

However this has been ignored in the proposed plan, which focuses mainly on developing the newly reclaimed land.

As the old town consists of the only surviving cultural and architectural elements, which represent the history of the island, it somehow needs to be saved for future generations. In addition to saving our cultural and architectural heritage, it can also have an economic and educational value, which will benefit the island as a whole.

By preserving the surviving buildings and elements of the town it can be used to teach the history and culture of the island and the Maldivian people to our future generations and the rest of the world.

Declaring part of the old town a protected heritage site and restoring traditional architectural and cultural elements within the town can achieve this. The site can be used as a tourist attraction and educational facility where visitors can experience traditional and cultural heritage of the country. Since the protection of the entire town may not be feasible, a part of the town can be used for this purpose.

The area around the surveyed block is ideal for protection as it sits in the center of the town and retains many of the features from our history. Residents of the area can be compensated by providing alternate means of housing, either in the new town or within the existing island. Hence the buildings and the infrastructure within the protected zone will become the property of the government.

Locals can be hired to look after the heritage site and to demonstrate our cultural values and lifestyle to the visitors. The creation of these new jobs is yet another benefit for the entire island.

As a whole the Heritage site will increase awareness of traditional Maldivian lifestyle among the general public of the island and the nation.

Recomended Heritage site

Figure 137: Recomended heritage site insite old town.

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Soil Erosion Soil erosion can be considered as a threatening problem in the island of Thulhaadhoo. Due to the location and orientation of Thulhaadhoo, soil erosion is one of the major problems the island has faced for a long time. Geographically the island is located in the western part of the atoll where the formation of new islands is at risk due to the strong waves and winds especially in Hulhangu Moosun. This problem is likely to worsen as a result of the rapid climate change.

On the western side of the island some houses are very close to the edge of the sea.

The residents of the island has placed unwanted concrete and other stones to temporaroly tackle the problem of soil erosion.

Figure 138: Temporary solution to tackle erosion by placing stones onto the beach.

Figure 139: The west side of the island, area most vulnerable to ersion.

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To confront the problem of ongoing soil erosion, an ideal solution is to build a seawall or revetment around the area most vulnereble.

The new plan of the island has revetment planned around the reclaimed land, however it does not address the issue of erosion on the western part of the island.

To protect this part of the island, additional revetment can be put in place as shown in the figure.

This will ensure the wellbeing of the residents of the island, especially the residents residing in the western, most vulnerable part of the island.

Recommended barrier to be build around the west side of the island.

Figure 140: Sea wall to protect from erosion.

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Harbor Facility As transportation needs increase, harbor facilities need to be upgraded to meet the demands of the growing population.

The existing jetties in the island are in extremely poor condition and in need of repair.

Figure 141: One of the 2 jetties existing on the island in very poor conditino.

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When planning to develop a new city, a harbour is an essential element in the plan. With the increase in land area, the population is bound to increase. A new harbor must be able to cope with this increase.

The harbor must be located in a place where vessels can safely and easily get access. The most ideal location is on the Northeast side of the island. This will ensure the protection from strong waves from the western side of the atoll.

As fishing is a major occupation of the locals, a harbor must be able to accomodate the growing number of fishing vessels and their equipments.

Figure 142: Proposed area for a harbour.

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Sports Grounds Sports and recreational activities are essential to keep an island functining properly. It builds social and cultural relationships and maintains balance and harmony in a society. Recreational activities will keep the youth of the island occupied in a productive way during their spare time, thereby preventing negetive lifestyles.

As the population increases, adequate facilities must be built and maintaied on the island to cater to this need of the society. Currently there are no playgrounds built for the purpose, however, residents use any available free space, for their sports and recreatinoal activities.

Such places are often close to residential homes, which creates certain difficulties for the residents of the area. Temporary solutions, such as building a net fence infront of the house to prevent damage from balls, seem to be working for the time being. However it requires a permanent solution to these problems.

Figure 143: Inadequate facilities for sports and recreational activities.

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These grounds need to be developed and maintained as sports grounds, with adequate facilities to cater to different sports and recreational activities. The interests of the locals must be taken into consideration when developing such places. As the locals are keen on soccer and volleyball, appropriate grounds for theses sports need to be build on the island. In addition, traditional sporst such as bashi, seem to be popular among the women of the society, hece this is yet another activity which need to be accomodated on the island.

In additional to the new soccer field proposed in the new town, the existing facilities can be developed to cater to the needs of other sports and socilizing activities.

Social areas.

Open areas currently utilised for recreational activities.

Soccer field plannned on the new town

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Figure 144: Plan of sports and recreational areas.

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Waste Management Waste management requires intensive use of environmentally sound technology for its activities which could be as simple as containers for primary collection to as complicated as incinerators for disposal of hazardous waste.

Although considerable efforts are being made by the Government in tackling waste-related problems, there are still major gaps to be filled in this area. The World Bank estimates that in developing countries, it is common for municipalities to spend 20-50 percent of their available budget on waste management, even though 30-60 percent of all the urban solid wastes remain uncollected and less than 50 percent of the population is served.

The new proposed plan of Thulhaadhoo gives an impression of how much improvement and development it is going to bring to the island.

With this advancement it is necessary to keep the environment free from pollution and other contamination. Hence, waste management prior to combustion needs to be collected at different areas of the island.

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Waste Collection Containers categorized for different materials either by color or by label can be supplied by municipality for each residence along with a waste collection calendar. The different colors determine the type of waste to be disposed of or collected in every bin. Colors including red, yellow and green can be used for organic waste that needs to be burned, for materials that need to be recycled and to dump leaves and other green waste from plants and trees respectively.

General waste (red container) would be collected each week, and organics (green container), and recyclables (yellow container) would be collected on alternate weeks. This information and the waste collection calendars that detail the week in which the bin is collected should be provided in an information pack distributed with the containers.

Figure 145: Different colors of waste bins Supplied for each residence.

Figure 146: Different colors of waste bins for different types of garbage.

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For collection, bins should be placed on the exterior of the residence by 11pm the night before the collection is to take place. Collection of waste would start early morning and bins would be left empty by the time it has to be used for the day.

The residents living in the present inhabited land of Thulhaadhoo would be given separate instructions on how they need to handle their garbage containers as the road widths are incompatible for Lorries to travel. The roads by which the Lorries would travel and collect the bins are shown and highlighted in the plan of the island shown in figure 14 After the process of waste collection, it is gathered into the waste management unit where incineration will be carried out.

Figure 147: Garbage collection vehicles route.

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Incineration Incineration is the method of waste treatment that involves the combustion of untreated organic waste. It is carried out in small scale by individuals and in large scale by industries as well. This method is ideal for islands as it is a common method used in countries having scarce land as this does not require a large ground area. Incinerators also have the benefits of preventing odors, dusts and treating wastes by destroying certain hazardous materials, pathogens and toxins by its high temperatures.

Incineration of waste materials converts the waste into ash, flue gas, and heat. The flue gases must be cleaned of gaseous and particulate pollutants before they are dispersed into the atmosphere. This helps in keeping the atmosphere free from pollution. In some cases, the heat generated by incineration can be used to generate electric power.

Figure 148: Shikoto incineration plant in Tokyo

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Figure 149: Maishima waste management centre in Osaka.

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The waste that is already sorted and divided is led into the incinerator where it is combusted. The released steam generates heat which is utilized by turbines producing electricity. The remaining waste undergoes different processes and continues to clean the waste materials and produces ash that can be safely disposed of. The bottom-ash produced during the process of incineration is used for construction as it can be utilized in making aggregates.

This method of waste management requires careful monitoring and qualified employees resulting in new job opportunities for residents.

Being an easy, affordable and beneficial technique this process is the ultimate solution for the waste management issues identified from the island. Anyhow, the best method of reducing waste disposals negative effect on society is simply to prevent its generation.

Figure 150: Garbage Incineration process.

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Land Scarcity B.THULHAADHOO Since the very beginning land scarcity has been a major issue and a great setback towards the development of the island. Throughout history, land reclamation projects had been carried out to cater the needs of growing population.

Today to cater the needs of the future generations by establishing an urbanized city and to make thulhaadhoo a safe island, a huge land reclamation project has been carried out by the government. This project reclaimed 15.1 hectors of land, which is bigger than the size of thulhaadhoo before the land reclamation project which was 14 hectors.

This new land would open many doors for the people of thulhaadhoo in the race against development and would help fulfill many dreams and hopes as this land would be developed as an urbanized city.This land would create many new opportunities as this area develops into a city and would give a chance for the people of the island to work from their island unlike now , which requires many people to work in Male’ or nearby resorts.

Built araea

FIgure 151: The entire island is built upto its maximum capacuty

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Sewage System Upgrading of the sewerage system has been a major issue raised by the people of Thulhaadhoo as every year they have to do a lot of work to clean the sewerage system to prevent the system from blocking.

With the development of the city in the new reclaimed land, this problem would grow and the need for a better eco friendly sewer system for the island would be crucial.

To tackle this problem a vacuum sewer can be used. This type of sewer system is eco friendly and an economic way of disposing the waste and is proved to work efficiently , as this type of sewer system is being used all over the globe today.

Vacuum Sewage System

How it works The whole system consists of three major sectors. They are: • Vacuum sewerage system • Treatment plant Ejector station • The vacuum sewer system collects the sewer from households and then transfers them to a treatment plant. The treated sewer is sent to an ejector station which pumps the sewer deep into the sea.

Treatment Plant

Ejector Station

Figure 152: Sewage System

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Vacuum Sewer

Vacuum sewerage system is run by a mechanized pumping station which transports the waste water from the households to the treatment plant. Unlike the gravity flow sewer system used in the island, this system uses differential air pressure to move the sewage. This system requires a central source of power to operate the vacuum pumps to maintain the vacuum (negative pressure) on the collection system. ‘The system requires a normally closed vacuum/gravity interface valve at each entry point to seal the lines so that vacuum can be maintained. These valves, located in valve pits, open when a predetermined amount of sewage accumulates in collecting sumps.

The resulting differential pressure between atmosphere and vacuum becomes the driving force that propels the sewage towards the vacuum station’ (Water Environment Federation, 2007).

FIgure 153: Vacuum sewage pump network in a town.

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FIgure 154: Schematic diagram of a vacuum sewage pump system connection to a singe household.

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Advantages

• Construction cost saving of sewer system: The vacuum pipeline can be installed in shallow and narrow trench and the sewer construction cost is much saved as compared with the conventional gravity sewer system which usually requires deeper and bigger trench for pipeline. Thus construction public nuisance is also minimized.

• No room for major leakages. : As the pipeline is air-tight and is kept in vacuum there is no room for either sewage leakage from the pipeline or underground water intrusion into the pipeline. Hence any leakage in the system can be easily detected.

• The elimination of any infiltration or penetration permits a reduction of size and cost of the Treatment plant.

• Vacuum stations can be designed to blend with the surroundings • Reducing the risk of blockages: waste is moved through the pipelines in high scour velocities keeping waste water aerated mixed , thus prevent pipes from blockages.

• Booster pump stations are not required.

• Application of smaller sized pipe diameter, usually 4”, 6”, 8” and 10” are used.

• No manholes are necessary.

• Field changes can easily be made as unforeseen underground obstacles can be avoided by going over, under, or around them.

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Treatment plant To treat the waste water a membrane bio reactor plant could be established. This waste water treatment technology is a new and advanced technology which is been applied all around the globe.

How it works The MBR process is a suspended growth activated sludge system that utilizes micro porous membranes for solid/liquid separation in lieu of secondary clarifiers. The typical arrangement shown in Figure 155 and 156 include; submerged membranes in the aerated portion of the bioreactor, an anoxic zone and internal mixed liquor recycle.

Figure 155: Typical schematic for membrane bio-reactor system

Figure 156: Schematic for membrane bio-reactor system

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Advantages of MBR

The Ejector Station

• ‘Secondary clarifiers and tertiary filtration processes are eliminated, thereby reducing plant footprint. In certain instances, footprint can be further reduced because other process units such as digesters or UV disinfection can also be eliminated/minimized (dependent upon governing regulations).

• Unlike secondary clarifiers, the quality of solids separation is not dependent on the mixed liquor suspended solids concentration or characteristics. Since elevated mixed liquor concentrations are possible, the aeration basin volume can be reduced, further reducing the plant footprint.

• No reliance upon achieving good sludge settle-ability, hence quite amenable to remote operation.

• Can be designed with long sludge age, hence low sludge production.

• Produces a MF/UF quality effluent suitable for reuse applications or as a high quality feed water source for Reverse Osmosis treatment. Indicative output quality of MF/UF systems include SS < 1mg/L, turbidity <0.2 NTU and up to 4 log removal of virus (depending on the membrane nominal pore size). In addition, MF/ UF provides a barrier to certain chlorine resistant pathogens such as Cryptosporidium and Giardia.

• The resultant small footprint can be a feature used to address issues of visual amenity, noise and odor. Example MBR plants exist where the entire process is housed in a building designed to blend in with its surrounding land use. This can reduce the buffer distance required between the plant and the nearest neighbor and can increase the surrounding land values’ (Membrane Bioreactors for Municipal WastewaterTreatment).

The ejector station consists of a pump which would pump the sludge from the treatment plant to the sea.

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Health in the Current City The health issues in the current city has been increasing in the past years to a point where the newly built health centre is unable to cope up with. The residents are not satisfied with the health facilities and services available from the island. A sustainable solution is needed to overcome the health problems faced by the people of the island.

The facilities for operational diseases should be kept in the health centre along the X-ray machines and a CT scan machine. This will improve the health services which can be provided from the health centre. The specialist doctors are also needed for the island which is one of the most common complains of the people regarding the health.

An alternative way to solve the current health issues, is the commencement of governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s transport network within the province. Hence the people can travel to the health centers of the other nearby islands of the province and Maleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; to seek the service as the introduction of governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s health insurance plan in the country is underway.

Figure 157: An x ray machine

Figure 158: CT scan machine

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Fire Safety

Fire safety refers to precautions that are taken to prevent or reduce the likelihood of a fire that may result in death, injury, or property damage, alert those in a structure to the presence of a fire in the event one occurs, better enable those threatened by a fire to survive, or to reduce the damage caused by a fire. Fire safety measures include those that are planned during the construction of a building or implemented in structures that are already standing, and those that are taught to occupants of the building.

The island has to be protected from an accident of fire in case which might happen in the future due to the congestion and the increase of industrial work. The old town is on the edge of a major disaster if a fire incident took place in the area. Even the new city of Thulhaadhoo should be prepared for any incident of fire which might threaten lives and property.

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Therefore sustainable solutions should be arranged in the island to address this issue.

• Constructing buildings in accordance with the version of the local building code.

• Maintaining the facilities and conducting it in accordance with the provisions of the fire code. This is based on the occupants and operators of the building being aware of the applicable regulations and advice.

Examples of these include: • Not exceeding the maximum occupancy within any part of the building.

• Maintaining proper fire exits and proper exit signage (e.g., exit signs pointing to them that can function in a power failure) • Placing and maintaining fire extinguishers in easily accessible places.

• Properly storing/using, hazardous materials that may be needed inside the building for storage or operational requirements

(such as solvents in spray booths).

• Prohibiting flammable materials in certain areas of the facility.

• Periodically inspecting buildings for violations, issuing Orders to Comply and, potentially, prosecuting or closing buildings that are not in compliance, until the deficiencies are corrected or condemning it in extreme cases.

• Maintaining fire alarm systems for detection and warning of fire.

• Obtaining and maintaining a complete inventory of firestops.

• Ensuring that spray fireproofing remains undamaged.

• Maintaining a high level of training and awareness of occupants and users of the building to avoid obvious mistakes, such as the propping open of fire doors.

• Conduct fire drills at regular intervals throughout the year.

Even though the written solutions are followed in the island special care should be taken in the old town if the place is kept as it is now.

A public fire safety system should be introduced with the trained people who will minimize the dangers of fire.

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Drainage The drainage issue will be a problem in Thulhaadhoo when the new city comes to the existence because of the difference between the heights of the ground surfaces. The new city is formed a bit higher than the level of current land surface of the island. Hence, the water drainage problem will occur due to the imbalance of the ground surface.

Sustainable solutions should be provided to overcome these disturbances of the island surface. The rainwater which is passed from the roofs of the houses can be collected in water tanks. If there are no arrangements of water tanks in some houses, a home drainage system can be used to pass all the water to a main pipeline.

The roads of the new town should be paved well while installing the drainage systems in all the roads.

Figure 159: Main pipe line can be connected to home drainage systems.

Figure 160: A home drainage system

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The cross edge near the current land area and newly reclaimed area should be protected well from any water drainage issue. This can be well solved by installing a Prefabricated Drainage System.

The revolutionary No-Aggregate Drainage System has proven itself by providing successful solutions to common site problems in many parts of the world.

Major benefits • Penetrates impermeable soil layers to lower water table.

• Greatly reduces hydrostatic pressure by carrying away subsurface water.

• Drains groundwater faster than conventional aggregate systems.

• Faster installation reduces costs.

• Flexible panels help reduce erosion of subsoil.

The current island area can also be protected from water draining problem if a pipe system is installed near the cross area of the new city.

Figure 161: Part of a Prefabricated drainage system

Figure 162: Main pipeline of the drainage system.

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Cultural Conflicts Cultural conflicts occur due to the interaction of social groups with conflicting interests, values and norms. It also arises due to the normal and political issues brought about by inter-group struggle for dominance.

Thulhaadhoo, known for their generosity and hospitality has a competitive society over sports related activities and events organized within the island. After the development of this island, there would be a tremendous increase in competition within the society. Locals from other nearby islands who settle in Thulhaadhoo would find it difficult to adjust to the new, already competitive surrounding.

Consequently, to communicate with others more effectively, they will have to become more aware of the cultural differences and explore their cultural similarities.

To avoid conflict and to create a consistent atmosphere within the newly created land of Thulhaadhoo, there are matters that should be taken into consideration. Such matters involve; • The socialization of groups where different islands are at odds, • People taunting those who newly settle in the island, • Forming of competitive groups leading to violence among the young generation and • Restrictions on relationship build ups Such conflicts have been seen in Maldives during the years that followed after Tsunami. People faced much trouble in settling in new islands where they were isolated and treated as foreigners. To overcome these differences, new methods and facilities need to be proposed.

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Interaction of Residents The new proposed plan of the island involves new districts and residences. To keep the locals from forming groups within their own people, apartments and homes should be given in such an order that people from different islands could interrelate with each other.

Neighbors being a combination of different islands would create an understanding of the differences and similarities relative to their culture. This would prevent the formation of remote groups and competition over undesired activities.

Figure 163: Typical layout of houses in a block.

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Clubs and Associations Clubs and associations are important social organizations that relate to the generations within an island. The organizing committees of all clubs are usually from the originating island. However, the development of Thulhaadhoo resulting in the uniting of islands would need people from all these islands to join the organization committee.

This act would ensure that there are no conflicts over the activities arranged by the clubs and associations and would also create a positive atmosphere within the society.

The combination of different people within a society would prevent the conception of groups only with similar interests and beliefs.

Groups consisting of dissimilar people have the benefits of gaining more knowledge over topics such as culture, tradition and other facts.

Favoring of committee members to their island can also be brought to an end by this method of interaction.

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Green Zones

The new proposed plan for Thulhaadhoo has a number of green zones within the island. These zones will facilitate in solving the cultural conflicts. These green zones will be available for the inhabitants to socialize with the rest of the island, providing them a comfortable ground for both parties as these new spots will not be already labeled as belonging to a certain group. These spaces will be a common ground for both the already inhabitants and the new comers which will result in mixed groups allowing them to get socialized much easily.

Figure 164: Plan of island showing distribution of green socilization zones.

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Vehicles and Vehicle Regulations With the development of the new reclaimed land as a city, another problem it would be the increase in the number of vehicles. This would cause many problems such as • Accidents • Noise pollutions • Air pollution • Damages to the roads of the old Thulhaadhoo if the roads are not maintained and left as it is now.

• The island lifestyle would completely dissapear (eg: cannot relax in the shade near the home in a joali)

Solution To tackle the mentioned issues and problems some drastic measures has to be taken. Some measures that can be taken are:

Create A Public Transportation System A public transportation system can be developed to cater to the transportation needs of the people on the island. This can be done by using public buses for transportation. To get easy access to this network of transportation and to help preserve the island lifestyle by making the roads safe as possible these busses are to run through only the main roads of the island and the outer most road of the island as shown on the map. To minimize the carbon foot print of the island and to help achieve the goal of making this country a carbon neutral country, eco friendly buses which run on renewable energy sources can be used.

Bus Route Traffic Lights

Figure 165: Public transportation Bus Route.

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Limiting The Number of Vehicles

Traffic Control and Road Safety

Another step to help minimize the carbon foot print of the island and to make the roads as safe as possible is to limit the number of vehichles that can be used. For example, creating strict regulations of not allowing vehicles except the public transportation vehicles to enter the old thulhaadhoo and also limiting the number of vehicles per household in the city area.

There are many things that can be done to control the traffic and make the roads safe. Some recommendations to make the roads safe in thulhaadhoo are mentioned below.

Environment Friendly Vehicles

Traffic lights are to be used at all the major roads and all the heavy traffic nodes. The map shows some of the places which are likely to have high traffic flow, hence requiring traffic lights. This would help control the traffic and minimize accidents.

Strict regulations are to be enforced and allow only vehicles which are eco friendly to be used on the island.

Traffic Lights

Flow of Vehicles

Speed of Vehicles To Control or limit the speed of vehicles, strict regulations are to be followed. For an example not allowing of higher CC vehicles which can be used to conduct illegal street races in the island.

Create speed bumps to help make the vehicles limit their speed.

Pedestrian Flow To help make the pedestrian flow easy and safe, follow strict regulations about not allowing things to be kept on the pavement or the road which would disrupt the flow of the pedestrians and vehicles. This would help keep the pedestrians off the road and make the roads safer.

Create guidelines to help the flow of vehicles by using traffic signs and boards.

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Slum Formation In the Old Town The implementation of new city plan in Thulhaadhoo will create further difficulties in the old town and the other parts of the island which includes housing, roads, and waste management, water and sanitation problems. The formation of slums need not be inevitable with rapid urbanization. Most of the times, the city authorities faced with rapid urban development lack the capacity to cope with the diverse demands for infrastructural provision to meet economic and social needs.

Rapid urban population growth will outpace the ability of city authorities to provide for housing and environmental and health infrastructure. Not only are strategic planning and intervention major issues in agenda to manage rapid urbanization, but in most of the countries city governments are not effectively linking the economic development trajectory to implications for urban growth and, hence, housing needs. This is the agendum that has been largely neglected by city and national governments that have been narrowly focused on economic growth with the consequent proliferation of slum formation as a housing solution. Therefore certain measures should be taken to solve the issues which will rise due to the formation of a new city in Thulhaadhoo.

All the public housing estates should be connected to modern sanitation and sewerage treatment works. In addition, there should be piped potable water supply and electricity. A solid waste management system should also be provided and put in place. Hence, the public houses will be effective in breaking the vicious cycle of the lack of provision of environmental and health infrastructure, which has led to highly unhealthy and socially vulnerable conditions in slum and squatter settlements.

Figure 166: A slum next to a developed ctcity.

Figure 167: Slums increase poverty and are a health risk.

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The accounts written below will minimize the slum formation, especially in the old town of Thulhaadhoo due to the new city plan.

1. Enact legislation against forced evictions and provide security of tenure. The forced demolition of urban slums has never reduced poverty — it creates poverty. Forced evictions have never reduced slums — they simply move slum formation elsewhere. Provision of secure tenure in existing informal settlements with the participation and contribution of existing residents is crucial to the process of slum upgrading. It is important to note that “security of tenure” describes a continuum of formal and informal legal arrangements that are highly context specific. They range from full land titling to local customary rights of tenure.

2. Take action on land issues. Local authorities should provide secure tenure to women and men in informal settlements in cooperation with national governments and slum dwellers. The local authorities of Thulhaadhoo, supported by the national government, need policies to ensure a supply of land to keep down prices and ensure alternatives to slums for the present and future. Two necessary first steps are to establish a system of effective land regulation to ensure the future supply of well located land as cities grow and to ensure that private transactions in the land market are based on transparent information.

3. Provide adequate and affordable infrastructure and services. Many basic services (water supply, garbage collection, infrastructure maintenance) can be provided at rates affordable to the poor through appropriate design and innovative structures of tariffs and subsidies. Great savings and improved access can be gained by involving the communities concerned in infrastructure development for rehabilitation, upgrading, and relocation.

4. Ensure that water, sanitation, and health services reach poor urban dwellers.

Steep barriers to accessing good-quality water, sanitation, health services, and emergency services, especially for slum dwellers, often make it difficult for poor urban residents to prevent and treat debilitating health problems.

Policymakers should immediately work to coordinate and focus the wide array of potential health service providers to reach slum dwellers and the urban poor — and integrate them with improved provision for environmental health.

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5. Enact building codes and regulations. Building codes and regulations should be realistic, enforceable, and reflective of community lifestyles and culture. In particular, they should reflect the special needs of the urban poor with respect to minimum plot size, incremental construction, affordable local building materials, and home-based economic activities.

6. Plan for adequate alternatives to the formation of new slums. Managing the ongoing process of urbanization to provide viable alternatives to the formation of slums requires making available land and trunk infrastructure for the construction of low-income housing as well as concerted strategies for the provision of healthcare, education, access to employment opportunities, and other social services in these areas. The integration of residential and income-earning activities is essential in the planning of new low-income neighborhoods.

7. Involve the private sector. The Thulhaadhoo city has to develop the urban infrastructure (roads, communications, power, transport services, water and sanitation, serviced areas) that can attract and sustain productive investment.

For this to happen, the island also needs to offer a regulatory and policy environment that encourages private sector endeavors (from small through large scale) and public-private partnerships.

8. Create jobs citywide. It can also provide the financial means to adequate housing and related essential services. This requires access to sustainable sources of livelihood (through formal, informal, or self-employment) as well as acknowledging the importance of the informal economy. To facilitate slum dwellers to take advantage of employment opportunities, the Thulhaadhoo city needs to eliminate restrictions and unreasonable burdens to local enterprise development. This includes reducing the costs and increasing the benefits of formalization (by, among other means, enhancing security as well as access to public procurement and relevant information on market opportunities, and business development support). Finance, business development services, education and skill-training are vital elements for an enabling environment for adequate job creation and income levels.

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Formation of Gangs With the implementation of new city in Thulhaadhoo, and the increase in population, formation of gangs can be considered as a major problem. The solutions to control and minimize this issue are being practiced throughout the modern cities of the world. Urban streetgang involvement in drug trafficking and violent crime is becoming increasingly widespreadâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;not just in large cities, but in suburban areas and small towns as well.

Figure 168: Tackling gang issues

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There are certain measures which will reduce the gang formation in the new city of Thulhaadhoo.

1. Focus in. Concentrate attention on the relatively small number of individuals who usually account for a disproportionate share of any problemâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;those who cause it (offenders), facilitate it (controllers, managers, and guardians), or suffer from it (victims).

2. Connect with other governmental and private services.

3. Use mediation and negotiation skills. Often the use of mediation and negotiation teams can be an effective response to conflicts.

4. Convey information. Relaying sound and accurate information is one of the least used responses. However, it is potentially the most effective response to a wide range of problems. Conveying information can reduce anxiety and fear, enable citizens to solve their own problems, help people conform to laws and regulations that are not known or understood, warn potential victims about their vulnerability and advise them of ways to protect themselves, demonstrate to people how they unwittingly contribute to problems, and develop support for addressing a problem.

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5. Mobilize the community. Mobilizing a specific segment of the community helps to implement a specific response for as long as it takes to reduce or eliminate problems.

6. Use existing forms of social control. Use the social control inherent in existing relationships, such as the influence of a parent, teacher, employer, or the religious speeches.

7. Alter the physical environment to reduce opportunities for problems to recur. Adapt the principles of crime prevention through environmental design.

8. Regulate, through statutes or ordinances, conditions that contribute to problems. Analysis may draw attention to those factors contributing to problems that can be controlled by regulation through statutes or ordinances.

9. Develop new forms of limited authority to intervene and detain.

10. Use the criminal justice system only when appropriate.

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References Mohamed Ibrahim Luthfy, Dhivehiraajeyge Geographyge Vanavaru.

Naseema Mohamed, 1998, Dhivehinge Aslu Kuda Aththa, 2010 http://www.unep.or.jp/ietc/Publications/spc/ISWMPlan_Vol2.pdf http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Incineration http://www.moyne.vic.gov.au/page/page.asp?Page_Id=2300&h=0 www.airvac.com/pdf/Vacuum%20Sewers%20101.pdf http://www.archiexpo.com/prod/jet-inc/wastewater-treatment-plant-for-small-communities-60602-146195.html http://www.biosolids.com.au/what-are-biosolids.php http://www.waset.org/journals/waset/v53/v53-146.pdf http://business.ezinemark.com/sewage-treatment-system-design-and-automatic-control-of-3-16bc2b2af0f.html http://www.isa.org.usyd.edu.au/publications/documents/SydneyWaterFootprint.pdf http://membranetechnology.blogspot.com/2008/10/membrane-bioreactor.html http://www.gec.jp/JSIM_DATA/WATER/WATER_2/html/Doc_24

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