Centre clears coastal zone plan for Mumbai

The CZMP marks the high and low tide lines and decides the vertical land use. File pic

The Centre's environment ministry has approved the Coastal Zone Management Plan (CZMP) for Mumbai city and suburbs, thus paving the way for new scope and extent of development.

Opposition leader Devendra Fadnavis informed media persons of the decision on Thursday. Fadnavis said he had requested Union Environment Minister Bhupendra Yadav during the latter's visit to Mumbai last week to expedite the final nod.

"Mr Yadav had assured of the approval in 15 days. We had a separate meeting on the issue. I thank the minister for immediate action," said former chief minister Fadnavis, adding that his government had prepared and sent the CZMP to the Centre. He said the plan envisaged upscaling of tourism and environmental protection. It will also expedite CIDCO projects in Navi Mumbai and elsewhere in the coastal region, he said.

CZMP marks the high and low tide lines, decides the vertical land use (Floor Space Index) in coastal areas by classifying and demarcating different regulation zones, and the ways and means of undertaking development (like tourism/hospitality), if any, in sensitive zones. It ensures conservation of coastal and marine areas, protects local population, infrastructure and resources. Violations of regulations can be identified with the help of CZMP and the offenders can be brought to book.

In Mumbai, several projects may go ahead if the approved CZMP favours them. It may open up huge land tracts for development and boost the redevelopment of dilapidated buildings. The CZMP will impact the city's Development Plan-2034 which has revised FSI in the city and suburbs, clearing the way for vertical development.