NECF’s Concerns
The National Environment Care Federation (NECF) has raised alarm over alleged Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) violations by Mangaluru Smart City Ltd (MSCL) and called for immediate action to restore sensitive mangrove areas. NECF secretary Shashidhar Shetty has urgently addressed the additional chief secretary to the government, department of forest, ecology, and environment, highlighting the issue. Shetty also sought intervention from the deputy commissioner to address the matter promptly.
Violation Details
In his letter, Shetty outlined the ongoing environmental violations by MSCL concerning its Nethravati Waterfront Promenade Project. He noted soil-filling operations and the construction of permanent structures in the intertidal zone CRZ 1B, directly impacting sensitive mangrove ecosystems near Morgan’s Gate along the river. These actions are in clear defiance of the conditional CRZ clearance granted by the Karnataka Coastal Zone Management Authority (KSCZMA) on October 7, 2022.
Legal Ramifications
Shetty emphasized that MSCL’s actions continue despite legal proceedings in the National Green Tribunal (NGT) in Chennai and suo motu cognizance taken by the principal bench in New Delhi. He stressed the potential irreversible damage to the mangrove ecosystem, flora, and fauna of the Nethravati River, particularly highlighting the area’s significance as a fish breeding zone.
Past Notifications and Inaction
NECF had previously alerted relevant authorities about CRZ violations by MSCL, but no action has been taken to address these concerns and safeguard the river and its ecosystems. Shetty urged immediate action under the Karnataka Environmental (Protection) Act 1986 to halt construction and remove introduced soil and permanent structures from the intertidal zone mangrove area.
This urgent plea underscores the need for swift action to prevent further environmental degradation and protect vital ecosystems in the region.