MCZMA: We have submitted all maps on time

Mumbai: The state government has stated that it has submitted the draft Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) maps for all the districts to the Union environment ministry on time. The CRZ maps for Mumbai, Palghar, Thane, Panvel, Uran and Raigad have already been published online on the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) website.  Officials have stated that these maps need to be finalised by the Government of India.

“As per the deadline of April 30 given by the Supreme Court, we have submitted the draft coastal zone maps to the MoEF. We are confident that these will be finalised too before the deadline for final maps,” said senior official from the MCZMA.  Earlier in April, the apex court had held that the state would submit the CRZ maps before April 30.  This was following a petition by NGO Vanashakti regarding the absence of CRZ maps in Mumbai and Thane. “The MCZMA still has to release the CRZ maps for Navi Mumbai as the latest maps only are for Panvel . We are hoping they release it for other areas too,” said Zaman Ali, advocate appearing for Vanashakti.