The Tamil Nadu State Coastal Zone Management Authority (TNSCZMA) has taken a significant step towards enhancing coastal regulation and protection within the state. With the objective of identifying violations in Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) areas and implementing effective enforcement measures, the TNSCZMA plans to establish five regional coordination units.
Objective: Strengthening Coastal Regulation Zone Compliance
The primary objective of the TNSCZMA is to establish five regional coordination units to bolster the implementation of CRZ regulations. These units will be instrumental in identifying and addressing violations in CRZ areas, thus ensuring the protection of the state’s coastal environment.
Coverage: Extensive Reach across Tamil Nadu
The TNSCZMA’s plan includes the establishment of five regional units in strategic locations across Tamil Nadu. These units will be set up in Chennai, Chengalpattu, Nagapattinam, Ramanathapuram, and Thoothukudi. This distribution will cover all 14 districts of the state, enabling comprehensive monitoring and enforcement of coastal regulations.
Addressing Manpower Shortage and Enforcement Gaps
Recognizing the need for a more efficient system for managing coastal zones, the TNSCZMA will present a proposal to the Tamil Nadu government. The proposal aims to address the existing manpower shortage and improve enforcement actions related to coastal regulation violations.
Financing Enhanced Coastal Protection
To fund the operations and human resources required for the regional coordination units, the TNSCZMA has put forth a plan to significantly increase the scrutiny fee collected from project proponents seeking clearance under CRZ notification, 1991.
Ensuring Sustainable Funding
The revised fee structure proposed by the TNSCZMA will create a more sustainable financial model for the units. Under the new fee structure, the scrutiny fee for projects with an estimated cost of Rs 500 crore and above will be Rs 40 lakh (previously Rs 20 lakh). For projects with an estimated cost between Rs 100 crore and below Rs 500 crore, the fee will be Rs 20 lakh (previously Rs 10 lakh).
Responsibilities of Regional Coordination Units
The regional coordination units will play a crucial role in ensuring the effective implementation of coastal regulations. Their key responsibilities include:
- Assisting and Coordinating with District Administrations: The units will collaborate with district administrations to ensure the proper implementation of CRZ regulations at the local level.
- Investigating Violations: The units will support both the TNSCZMA and the District Coastal Zone Management Authority (DCZMA) in investigating alleged violations of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, within the CRZ areas.
- Sponsored Investigations and Research: These units will conduct sponsored investigations and research activities aimed at the protection and conservation of the coastal environment.
- Periodic Reporting: The units will be responsible for submitting periodic reports on CRZ violation cases to the DCZMA, ensuring that appropriate actions are taken.
- Post-Clearance Monitoring: The regional coordination units will assist in post-clearance monitoring for various projects, ensuring that the approved plans are adhered to.
