Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) Notification, 2019
The CRZ Notification, 2019 (issued under the Environment Protection Act, 1986) regulates development activities in the coastal zone to protect coastal ecology, beaches, and the livelihoods of traditional coastal communities including fishers.
- CRZ is defined as the land from the High Tide Line (HTL) to 500 metres inland (or the relevant distance in tidal areas), plus the water area up to 12 nautical miles into the sea (territorial waters)
- CRZ is classified into four categories: CRZ-I (ecologically sensitive — most restrictive), CRZ-II (developed urban areas), CRZ-III (rural/undeveloped), CRZ-IV (islands)
- Industrial projects near the coast require both Environmental Clearance (under EIA Notification) and CRZ Clearance — which is granted by the Ministry/SCZMA based on recommendations of State Coastal Zone Management Authorities
- Ramayapatnam port and the proposed refinery site in Nellore are on the Bay of Bengal coast, making CRZ compliance mandatory; projects in CRZ-I areas are typically prohibited
- Traditional fishers (fishing communities dependent on the coast) have legally recognised rights under CRZ notifications; their livelihoods must be assessed and protected in the EIA process
● Tracked since March 12, 2026 · last seen October 08, 2026 · updates as the daily brief publishes
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