The state will chalk out an Integrated Coastal Zone Management Project (ICZMP) within 6 months that could help pave the way for a comprehensive resettlement of coastal people affected by sea erosion. This would help the state seek exemption from Centre on Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) norms, said Minister J Mercykutty Amma. CRZ notification is presently creating hindrances to the fishers for construction and repair of their houses, which were traditionally set near the coast. ICZMP, once completed, will prepare local body-wise ICZM plans, which will delineate areas that require exemptions under CRZ notifications and propose a holistic plan for protection and management of coast. One of the major proposals by the state government is to construct a coastal road. In the first phase, road will be constructed between Thiruvananthapuram and Ernakulam, said the Fisheries Minister. A two-day national level workshop on coastal protection and management will be held to chart out ICZMP on August 10 and 11 in Thiruvananthapuram. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan will inaugurate the workshop. The two-day workshop will deliberate on integrated coastal zone management, different approaches to coastal protection and rehabilitation and livelihood issues. Only 46.3 km is stable out of the 590 km coastline. The state has an artificial coast line of 310 km, as per govt data.
2016, The New Indian Express.