The coastal areas of Tamil Nadu, India, are vital ecosystems that support a diverse range of flora, fauna, and livelihoods for millions of people. However, these regions are under constant threat due to developmental projects that violate Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) guidelines. To address this concern, the Tamil Nadu State Coastal Zone Management Authority (TNSCZMA) has proposed the establishment of five regional coordination units. These units aim to efficiently identify violations in CRZ areas, monitor projects for compliance, and take appropriate actions against violations. Additionally, the TNSCZMA plans to raise the scrutiny fee collected from project proponents to fund the necessary manpower for the units.
Objectives of the Proposal
The primary objective of the TNSCZMA is to establish five regional coordination units strategically positioned in Chennai, Chengalpattu, Nagapattinam, Ramanathapuram, and Thoothukudi. These units will cover all 14 districts of Tamil Nadu and play a crucial role in the effective implementation of CRZ regulations. They will be responsible for identifying violations, coordinating with district administrations, and aiding the investigation of alleged violations of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.
Coverage of the Regional Units
The proposed regional coordination units will be geographically distributed to ensure comprehensive coverage of Tamil Nadu’s coastal regions. By positioning these units in key districts, the TNSCZMA aims to tackle violations more effectively and efficiently.
Addressing Manpower and Enforcement Challenges
The TNSCZMA recognizes the lack of dedicated manpower and enforcement actions as significant challenges hindering effective CRZ management. The establishment of regional coordination units will help address these issues by providing support and expertise at the local level.
Increased Scrutiny Fee
To fund the operational costs and human resources required for the regional units, the TNSCZMA plans to implement a significant increase in the scrutiny fee charged to project proponents seeking clearance under the CRZ notification, 1991.
Revised Fee Structure
The proposed revised fee structure will have a graded approach based on the estimated cost of the projects. For projects with an estimated cost of Rs 500 crore and above, the scrutiny fee will be Rs 40 lakh, up from Rs 20 lakh in the previous structure. 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 have specific responsibilities to ensure effective CRZ management:
- Assist and Coordinate with District Administrations: The units will collaborate with district administrations to implement CRZ regulations at the local level.
- Investigate Alleged Violations: They will assist the TNSCZMA and District Coastal Zone Management Authority (DCZMA) in investigating alleged violations of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.
- Conduct Research Activities: The units will conduct sponsored investigations and research related to coastal environment protection and conservation.
- Periodic Reporting: They will submit periodic reports on CRZ violation cases through DCZMA to ensure transparency and accountability.
- Post-Clearance Monitoring: The units will aid in post-clearance monitoring of projects to ensure compliance with CRZ guidelines.
Rationale behind the Proposal
The proposal for establishing regional coordination units comes as a response to critical observations made by the Accountant General’s Performance Audit on ‘Conservation of Coastal Marine Eco-system’ and the report of the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India.
AG Report Findings
The Accountant General’s report highlighted various shortcomings, including the lack of dedicated manpower for TNSCZMA, non-submission of periodical returns on CRZ violations, absence of post-clearance monitoring, and failure to enforce submission of half-yearly compliance reports.
CAG Report Observations
In its report on ‘Conservation of Coastal Ecosystems,’ the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India pointed out that the State Coastal Zone Management Authorities (SCZMAs) did not take proactive action against CRZ violations. The report flagged the lack of monitoring and enforcement actions, resulting in ineffective deterrence for the destruction of coastal ecology caused by developmental projects.