What Is The Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) Notification?

The Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) notification is a regulatory framework issued by the Government of India under the Environment Protection Act, 1986. It aims to protect India’s coastal environment by regulating human activities along the coastline, ensuring sustainable development while safeguarding coastal ecosystems, such as mangroves, coral reefs, and beaches. The CRZ notification divides coastal areas into zones with specific restrictions on construction, industrialization, and other activities.

Key Features and Provisions

Zoning of Coastal Areas

Coastal areas are classified into CRZ categories (I to IV), based on ecological sensitivity, population, and existing development:

• CRZ-I: Ecologically sensitive areas including mangroves, coral reefs, and sand dunes where development is highly restricted.
• CRZ-II: Areas within municipal limits that are already developed.
• CRZ-III: Rural and relatively undisturbed areas where limited development is allowed.
• CRZ-IV: Water areas such as the sea and tidal zones.

Restrictions on Development

• Prohibits construction or activities within a specified distance from the High Tide Line (HTL), varying by zone.
• Regulates industrial, tourism, and infrastructure projects near the coast.
• Special protection for sensitive ecosystems and fishing communities.

Environmental Clearance

Projects in the CRZ areas require prior environmental clearance from authorities such as the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) or designated state bodies.

Livelihood and Community Rights

Recognizes and protects the rights of traditional coastal communities, fishermen, and others dependent on coastal resources.

Periodic Amendments

The CRZ notification is periodically updated to balance development needs with environmental protection, the latest being the CRZ 2019 notification.

Legal Framework

• Issued under Section 3 of the Environment Protection Act, 1986.
• Enforced by MoEFCC and State Coastal Zone Management Authorities.
• Violations can lead to penalties, stop-work orders, or restoration mandates.

Example

A coastal tourism project plans to build a resort near a beach:

• The project falls under CRZ-III, requiring environmental clearance.
• Construction is only allowed beyond a certain distance from the High Tide Line.
• The project must ensure no damage to mangroves or other sensitive habitats.
• Local fishing communities’ livelihoods must be considered and not adversely impacted.