The Union Cabinet of India recently announced its approval of the Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) Notification, 2018. The CRZ policies were last assessed and issued in the year 2011. The latest notification comes as a result of numerous inputs received by the Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change (MoEFCC) from various coastal regions all over the country. It is primarily based on the recommendations brought forward by the Shailesh Nayak committee.
Introduction to Coastal Regulation Zones (CRZs)
The concept of Coastal Regulation Zones was born out of the coastal zone regulation notification in 1991. These zones include areas like seas, bays, estuaries, creeks, rivers, and backwaters. In an effort to regulate human activities in these areas, the CRZs have been classified into four categories:
* CRZ-I: This zone comprises ecologically sensitive areas where no construction is allowed except for atomic power plants and defense activities.
* CRZ-II: This zone encompasses designated urban areas that are significantly developed. Construction activities are allowed only on the landward side.
* CRZ-III: This zone includes largely undisturbed areas, mainly rural. No new constructions are allowed except for repairing existing structures. However, constructions of dwelling units are allowed between 200-500m of the high tide line.
* CRZ-IV: This zone covers the water area between Low Tide Line and 12 nautical miles seaward. Except for fishing and related activities, all other actions will be regulated in this zone.
Key Features of the 2018 Notification
The 2018 notification introduces several important changes. Firstly, FSI norms have been eased for CRZ-II areas. Secondly, new categories have been established for densely populated rural areas. Furthermore, provision has been made for tourism infrastructure in coastal zones. The clearance process has been streamlined and a No Development Zone (NDZ) of 20 meters has been stipulated for islands. Special importance has been given for the conservation of Ecologically Sensitive Areas and measures to address pollution have also been put in place. Moreover, defense and strategic projects are exempted from these regulations.
Key Facts About CRZ Notification 2018
| Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Floor Space Index (FSI) Norms Eased | For urban areas (CRZ-II), FSI has been de-frozen, which allows for construction projects that meet emerging needs. |
| Densely Populated Rural Areas (CRZ-III A) | These regions will now have a No Development Zone (NDZ) of 50 meters from the High Tide Line as against 200 meters in the previous guidelines. |
| Rural Areas with less density (CRZ-III B) | The NDZ will remain 200 meters from the High Tide line. |
| Tourism Infrastructure in Coastal Areas | Provision for facilities like toilets, change rooms, drinking water etc. within a minimum distance of 10m from the High Tide Line. |
Prospects and Concerns of the 2018 Notification
The proposed CRZ Notification, 2018 is expected to promote economic growth in the coastal regions and lead to significant employment generation. It will improve the standard of living and boost the economy of India. The notification is also predicted to strengthen the conservation efforts and housing opportunities.
Despite the apparent advantages, concerns have been raised about the implications of the new regulations. Critics argue that the simplified provisions for environmental clearances could lead to coastal degradation. Additionally, the notification fails to address the issues faced by the fishing community.