Ratnagiri and Sindhudurg districts have been selected for the implementation of the ambitious Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM) project jointly launched by the union ministry of environment and forests and the World Bank. The project envisages coastal protection, community livelihood, capacity-building of coastal communities, tourism and mitigation of pollution. The Maharashtra Coastal Zone Management Authority, at its recent meeting, gave its approval at a time when villagers from Ratnagiri and Sindhudurg districts are stepping up their agitation against the Rs 3 lakh crore refinery project on the grounds that it would adversely impact marine life and environment. Ratnagiri and Sindhudurg district are one of the most important and famous maritime districts of Maharashtra. The coastal length of Ratnagiri District is 167 kms while it is 121 kms of Sindhudurg District. The fishing industry in both districts is mainly dependent on the exploitation of the available marine resources and both have emerged as a favoured tourist destination. An official from the state environment department told DNA, "These two districts have been selected considering their location and abundant marine life. Under the ICZM, coastal water monitoring stations, installation of sewage treatment plants, protection of mangroves stretches, training for local coastal communities for fisheries, capacity building will also be undertaken. Besides, attention will be paid on coastal protection measures in eroding stretches by means of soft engineering techniques such as sand dune stabilization, beach rejuvenation and coastal vegetation." In response to the protest by the fishing community, the project of eradication of ghost fishing nets from seawater will also be implemented in two districts. The officer said that a marine hospital for aquatic animals, ornamental fish rearing, skill development and training, a nursery for tolerance plants useful for dune stabilisation will be launched. Further, demonstration fisheries projects in the Kharland where mangroves have come up will be also undertaken. The official said that under the ICZM, processing of mango and cashew from these districts will also be launched.

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