Island Coastal Regulation Zone (ICRZ)

In its counter affidavit to the NGT’s eastern zone bench, the Union Environment Ministry stated that the clearances granted for the Great Nicobar infrastructure project have not violated the Island Coastal Regulation Zone (ICRZ) notification, 2019.

Island Coastal Regulation Zone (ICRZ) 2019

Objectives:

• Environmental Protection: The ICRZ aims to safeguard sensitive coastal ecosystems, including mangroves, coral reefs and other biodiversity hotspots.
• Sustainable Development: It seeks to promote sustainable development practices in coastal areas while ensuring the livelihoods of local communities, particularly those dependent on fishing and tourism.

Classification of Coastal Zones

• ICRZ-I: Ecologically sensitive areas such as mangroves, coral reefs, and national parks. Development activities are highly restricted.
• ICRZ-II: Developed land areas close to the shoreline. Limited construction is allowed under specific guidelines.
• ICRZ-III: Relatively undisturbed areas, including rural regions. Development is permitted but with restrictions to protect the environment.
• ICRZ-IV: Water areas and seabed extending from the low tide line (LTL) to twelve nautical miles offshore. This zone includes provisions for fishing and other marine activities.

Prohibited Activities

• Setting up new industries or expanding existing ones.
• Storage or disposal of hazardous materials.
• Land reclamation or alteration of natural water courses.
• Discharge of untreated waste and effluents from industries, cities, or towns.
• Dumping of city or town wastes, including construction debris and industrial solid wastes.
• Mining of sand, rocks, and other substrate materials.
• Disposal of plastic into coastal waters.

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