NEW DELHI: Continuing its push for ease of doing business, the Centre has started online clearance procedure for all projects related to construction of infrastructure in coastal areas in the country.
The ministry of environment and forests has launched the web portal for obtaining coastal regulation zone clearances by project proponents. The system is based on web architecture, similar to the existing systems in place for according environmental and forest clearances.
The system will enable the project proponents and the concerned state bodies like the state coastal zone management authorities (SCZMAs) and municipal, town planning agencies in tracking the status of their proposals. They project proponents no more have to visit ministry or state authority offices to track their files.
“The portal is a very user-friendly initiative, which enables submission of applications for CRZ clearance in a single-window interface and facilitates quick flow of information related to CRZ clearances. The portal allocates a unique identity for each proposal for all future references. It is accessible from any computer with internet facility,” said an environment ministry official.
The objectives of the web portal is to enhance efficiency, transparency and accountability in the process of CRZ clearances; enhance responsiveness through workflows and availability of real-time information on the status of CRZ clearance proposals; ease of business and convenience of citizens in accessing information and services and standardised procedures and processes across central and state levels.
The ministry, however, is yet to accept the expert committee report on coastal regulation zone which talks about allowing hotels, resorts to be developed in CRZ, simplifying clearance procedures and delegation of powers to states.
“There are other initiatives underway, like the notification of High Tide Line/Low Tide Line (HTL/LTL), ecologically sensitive areas falling under CRZ-1 and hazard line. All these steps are aimed at minimising discretions and enhancing accountability at all levels,” the official added.