Question : Protection of Coastal Zones

(a) the details of initiatives taken by the Government to protect the coastal zones in the country;
(b) whether the Shailesh Naik committee constituted to examine issues relating to coastal zone regulations has submitted its report;
(c) if so, the details and major recommendations contained therein;
(d) the details of consultations held with coastal and fishing communities by the said committee along with the outcome thereof; and
(e) the recommendations of the committee which have been implemented so far along with the efforts being made to implement all the recommendations?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT, FOREST AND CLIMATE CHANGE

(SHRI ANIL MADHAV DAVE)

(a) The Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) Notification, 2011 and the Island Protection Zone Notification, 2011 issued by the Central Government under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, aimed at conserving and protecting coastal stretches and regulating developmental activities therein, are presently in force. The Ministry is also implementing the World Bank funded Integrated Coastal Zone Management Project. Key components of the project include hazard line mapping of entire coastline of the country, livelihood improvement of coastal communities and eco-system conservation.

(b) & (c) Yes Sir. The Committee has recommended a new draft CRZ framework, involving greater responsibilities to the coastal States/Union Territories in regulating development in coastal areas, maintaining and conserving ecologically fragile zones, consistency with the local town and country planning regulations, and protection of coastal zones keeping in view the basic requirements of fishermen/other coastal communities.

(d) The issues concerning coastal and fishing communities were posed before the Committee through the coastal States/Union Territories.

(e) The recommendations of the Shailesh Naik Committee have not been implemented. A specific time frame cannot be indicated at this stage in view of the complexity of issues involved and the procedural requirements to be followed including the need for consultation with stakeholders and public under the provisions of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.
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