The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) has directed the Gujarat Coastal Zone Management Authority (GCZMA) to investigate the alleged illegal construction of a Sea Food Park on 35 hectares of intertidal land in Kakvadi Danti village, Valsad district. The project has sparked outrage among locals and environmentalists for its potential violation of the Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) 2019 and its devastating impact on the fragile ecosystem.
The complaint against the project was filed by MHS Shaikh, president of the Brackish Water Research Centre (BWRC), Surat. He alleges that the Regional Manager of GIDC Vapi, in a questionable decision, demanded land for the Sea Food Park in an area falling under the CRZ 1B zone, approved under the Coastal Zone Management Plan. This zone prohibits the establishment of such facilities due to its ecological sensitivity.
Adding to the concerns, the land allotment was reportedly made by the Valsad district collector without any consultation with the affected villagers. The villagers, who rely on fishing, farming, and animal husbandry for their livelihood, have strongly protested against the project since the land leveling work began. The project site is not just any land; it encompasses a crucial creek and its surrounding mangroves. The creek serves as the monsoon water outlet for five villages and plays a vital role in maintaining the ecological balance of the area. Blocking the creek, as the project threatens to do, could have disastrous consequences, leading to flooding and agricultural losses for the villagers.
Furthermore, the construction has already resulted in the destruction of mangroves, a vital component of the coastal ecosystem. These ecosystems provide essential habitat for diverse marine life and act as natural buffers against erosion and storm surges. “The Valsad district collector has arbitrarily allotted the land to GIDC without consulting the CRZ committee,” MHS Shaikh stated, emphasizing the blatant disregard for environmental regulations. “We have demanded immediate action to stop the environmental damage caused by the illegal construction of the Sea Food Park in violation of the CRZ notification 2019.” “The MoEFCC’s intervention in this matter offers a glimmer of hope for the affected villagers and the fragile ecosystem. A thorough investigation is crucial to hold those responsible accountable and prevent further environmental degradation.” Added Shaikh.