Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ)

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• In 1991, the land between the low tide line (LTL) and the high tide line, as well as the coastal areas of oceans, bays, creeks, rivers, and backwaters that are affected by tides up to 500 meters from the high tide line (HTL), were designated as coastal regulation zones (CRZs).

• In accordance with the Environment Protection Act of 1986, the Ministry of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change has established the coastline regulation zones.

• State governments, via their Coastal Zone Management Authorities, are responsible for ensuring the application of the CRZ Rules, which are created by the Union Environment Ministry.
 

CRZs have been classified into 4 zones for the purpose of regulation

• CRZ-I: This category covers ecologically sensitive areas where building is prohibited, with the exception of defense and atomic power plant operations.

• CRZ-II: consists of defined, heavily populated urban areas. Only the landward side may be used for construction.

• CRZ-III: consists primarily of rural, generally undisturbed areas. In this area, only building repairs are permitted instead of new development. Nonetheless, it is permissible to build residential structures in plots located 200–500 meters above the high tide line.

• CRZ-IV: this refers to the area of water covered between 12 nautical miles seaward and the Low Tide Line. All activities involving the sea and tidal water will be regulated in this area, with the exception of fishing and related activities.

Importance of Regulation of Coastal Zones

• Preserving environmentally sensitive areas, such as coral reefs and mangroves, which serve as a barrier against cyclones and tsunamis

Enhancing the quality of life in coastal communities, such as fishing villages

• Adaptive strategies to lessen the effects of climate change and strong storms

• To strike a balance between coastal environment conservation and development