The National Fishworkers’ Forum (NFF) has strongly opposed the new Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) notification issued by the Government of India.
A release from Vasudeva Bolooru, the NFF vice chairperson, said that the CRZ notification will drastically dilute the provisions for protecting the coastal ecosystem.
The notification will eventually destroy the livelihood of fisherfolk along the coast of India, which covers 7,500 km. In addition, 14,500 km of riverline will be concreted under the Sagarmala project, the release added.
Taking strong objection to the lack of consideration given to fishing community members’ views, the Forum has vowed to fight the new notification.
The Forum has also urged the Centre to withdraw the notification and the Parliament to replace it with a new law enacted after an elaborate public debate and discussion.