The Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has approved the Coastal Zone Management Plans (CZMPs) for Mumbai and its suburbs with riders. Now, developmental projects falling within 500m from the high tide under the Coastal Regulation Zone will be benefited from the ministry’s approval. The ministry, however, said that the CZMPs shall include eco-sensitive zones (ESZ). It shall be revised accordingly, if required, after due approval. The activities or projects prohibited in the notified ESZ falling within approved CZMPs shall remain prohibited in that area.
As reported by the Free Press Journal on Monday, MoEFCC Minister Bhupendra Yadav had assured that the ministry will give its nod in a fortnight. Maharashtra Environment Minister Aaditya Thackeray, who was pursuing the early clearance of CZMPs since January, hailed the ministry’s decision. Leader of Opposition Devendra Fadnavis said, “This plan was prepared during our regime with international norms. It will boost employment in the tourism sector, development and environment conservation too.”
Hiranandani Group MD Niranjan Hiranandani called it a positive move on the part of authorities. “Mumbai and its suburban areas face a challenge in redeveloping dilapidated buildings and slum pockets due to the existing norms. The order, once issued by the National Disaster Zone Management Authority, will definitely empower rehabilitation and redevelopment in these areas. Realty projects in the region will get a boost,” he noted.
Knight Frank India CMD Shishir Baijal asserted that the clearance of CRZ was critical to decongest the city and provide it with adequate housing and infrastructure facilities.
Points to note:
The CZMP maps use distinct colour codes to demarcate CRZ areas (I to IV), high tide and hazard line, fishing zones, intertidal areas, mangrove forests and buffer areas, turtle nesting sites, cyclone shelters, koliwadas and gaothans.
These maps also identify coastal areas that can be opened up for infrastructural development.