REVIEWING THE IMPLEMENTATION OF CRZ NOTIFICATIONS:

Abstract

Endless conflicts are happening during the processes of drafting, revision and ongroundimplementation of various Master Plans and Coastal Zone Management Plans, between coastal settlements and coastal regulation authorities. Theinterests of coastal settlements are also to be safeguarded along with the coastal ecology. But there is no clear provision for the same incorporated, in the Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) Notifications of India. That is when the dire need forstudying effectiveness of CRZ Notifications using Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM) for consensus building and for better implementation ofsame, were identified. The research investigated the implementation andeffectiveness of the Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) Notification in fosteringconsensus between stakeholders in Kerala's ErnakulamDistrict. The researchexamined how CRZ regulations impacted coastal areas and explored methods to bridge the gap between theoretical guidelines and their practical application. Itaddressed several key questions. Firstly, it explored how CRZ Notifications affected coastal areas and the effectiveness of thei implementation. Secondly, it investigated methods to consider the viewpoints of both coastal communities and authorities for consensus building. Finally, the research examined whether ascience-based modelling tool alongside climate-resilient urban planning strategies could aid in resolving conflicts and protecting coastal regions and communities. Several objectives were pursued in this research. The first objective was to analyse the CRZ Notification 2019 and its amendments in the context of the specific coastal taluks of Ernakulam District. Secondly, the research aimed to assess the needs of coastal communities and CRZ authorities regarding the notification. Finally, the research proposed tailored strategies and recommendations for building consensus between these stakeholders. Finding answer for one of the research questions ended up in adapting a mixed methods approach, namely Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) and Participatory Action Planning containing Action Prioritization, which were employed to achieve the research objectives and aim. The research reviewed relevant literature on CRZ Notifications, Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM) best practices, and shoreline change mapping. Data collection involved quantitative surveys, qualitative interviews, participatory observations, and stakeholder consultations. Statistical methods and thematic coding were used to analyse the collected data. Furthermore, the research created baseline maps incorporating elevation profiles, Kerala's coastline, land-use land cover (LULC), and shoreline changes. Additionally, Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) was employed to prioritize actions within an ICZM framework. Finally, the analysis of data was used to propose strategies and recommendations for improved CRZ notification implementation and consensus building. The study identified gaps in the 2019 CRZ Notification and the existing CZMP for the study area. Land-use land cover analysis revealed changes in built-up area and agricultural land between 2014 and 2024, suggesting potential urbanization or shifts in land use. Shoreline change analysis from 2018 to 2024 highlighted the dynamic nature of shorelines. The MCDA identified various tasks and actions for improved coastal zone management, with priorities varying between different communities. The research concluded by recommending modifications to the CRZ notification implementation structure, the establishment of a public engagement committee, and the integration of science-based modelling tools for effective shoreline management. By understanding the real-world implications of CRZ regulations on coastal communities, this research offered valuable insights for sustainable coastal governance in Kerala. The proposed framework for consensus building and science-based planning can be used by policymakers to develop effective coastal management strategies that consider the needs of both coastal communities and environmental protection. In short, in this research, the contentious issue of CRZ implementation is addressed, as a case study of coastal taluks of Ernakulam District, Kerala, focusing on consensus building between coastal settlements & coastal regulation authorities, via GIS Mapping and Consensus Building model, to bridge the gap. The study is limited to a 500-meter buffer zone (from Kerala coastline) spanning various taluks, highlights shoreline changes, predominantly coastal accretion. The research delves into the persistent conflicts arising during the drafting and onground implementation of plans, emphasizing the need to safeguard both coastal settlements and ecology. The absence of clear provisions in India's CRZ notifications necessitates an investigation into their effectiveness. Through ICZM, this study offers valuable insights, emphasizing the urgent requirement for consensus-driven strategies for better CRZ implementation. The research also presents a comprehensive analysis of the Coastal Regulation Zones (CRZ) Notifications and their influence on the coastal communities. CRZ regulations, designed to balance environmental conservation and community livelihoods, form the backdrop for this study.