Coastal Regulation Zone Notifications (2018)

CRZ-I, CRZ-II, CRZ-III and CRZ-IV—in the 1991 notification.CRZ-I-Ecologically sensitive areassuch as coral reefs, mangroves, wildlife habitats etc that lie between high and low tide line, and are very much essential for maintaining the ecosystems. Natural gas exploration and salt extraction are permitted in this zone.CRZ-II-Urban(developed)areasup to the shoreline of the coast. Unauthorized structures are not allowed here.CRZ-III - Rural and urban areaswhich fall outside CRZ-I and CRZ-II are covered under CRZ-III. Only certain activities related to agriculture and some public facilities are permitted in this zone.CRZ-IV - Aquatic areasup to territorial limits are notified under CRZ-IV. Fishing and allied activities are permitted in this zone. Solid waste should be let off in this zone.As we can see the notification excludes Oceanic region and imposed restriction on the setting up and expansion of industries, sand mining, disposal/storage of hazardous material etc.CRZ Guidelines EvolutionThe guidelines in the 1991 notifications were too restrictive and several amendments were made. Despite the amendments the states were not satisified with the result