Four coastal projects worth Rs 2 billion to come up in Goa after Centre’s approval

As reported, as a part of the Integrated Coastal Zone Management Plan (ICZMP), the Central Government has given the go-ahead for four coastal projects in the state of Goa. Worth Rs 2 billion, these projects include sand dune parks, erosion or accretion assessment study, waste to energy plant, and documentation of fishery zones. The state had submitted a total of 12 projects for the Centre’s approval. It is estimated that work on these projects will commence around mid-December prior to the state officials receiving the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for all four projects. Reportedly, the DPR will be conducted by Chennai’s National Centre for Sustainable Coastal Management (NCSCM) – following which the report will be handed over to the state government. The institute will majorly focus on highlighting problems or hurdle to the projects and will list out possible solutions for the same.  Under ICZMP, the projects being implemented in Goa are a part of the second phase of the project. The first phase witnessed implementation in the states of Gujarat and Odisha. Reportedly, the four ventures will receive funding from three sources – the World Bank, the Central Government and the State Government. They will initiate spending of Rs 1 billion, Rs 0.6 billion and Rs 0.4 billion, respectively. Additionally, the other 12 projects consisted of proposals for a study on the marine biodiversity of critical marine habitats as well as establishing a state project management unit as a part of its Department of Science, Technology and Environment (DSTE). The ICZMP is part of the government’s efforts to strengthen and enhance coastal resource efficiency while also making it resilient to varying factors. The plan includes a range of crucial activities – mangrove afforestation or putting together shelter beds, habitat conservation activities, eco-restoration of sacred groves, development of hatcheries and rearing or setting up rescue centres for turtles and other marine animals. It sets the guidelines for project implementation that takes into account the maintenance and conservation of the natural coastal ecosystem.