In another step forward towards ongoing coastal zone management activities, Odisha has initiated steps for preparation of integrated shoreline management plan for the entire 480 km of its coast.
This was discussed in the 1st State level Steering Committee meeting held under the chairmanship of Chief Secretary Aditya Prasad Padhi in which Project Director; ICZMP Dr Ajit Pattanaik outlined the issues for discussion.
It was decided in the meeting that a long term integrated plan would be prepared for ensuring sustainable development of coastal areas and eco-supportive management of coastal resources. Chief Secretary Padhi advised to address to the problems of coast line erosion, resilient eco-system and vulnerability of livelihood that arises because of climatic changes.
The meeting deliberated on the issues relating to developing a reliable data base about the environmental and socio-economic features, vulnerability assessment i.e. possibility of damage to people and property due to coastal hazards, broad strategies for shoreline management and sectoral developmental plans in the coastal area.
The Chief Secretary advised to have appropriate stakeholders consultation in preparation of the plan and ensure people’s participation at different levels.
Review of the progress showed that in course of the presently ongoing ICZMP activities, a significant amount of data has been collected and consultations with people have been taken up. A number of publications and case studies have been collected and put to assessment of the experts. A weightage matrix framework has been prepared for undertaking vulnerability mapping. The suggestions and guidance of a multidisciplinary support team comprising of planners, architects, geographers, sociologists, rural development, communication and GIS experts are being incorporated in preparation of the integrated plan.
Replying to a media query after the meeting, Project Director Pattanaik said that Odisha is the first State to initiate actions for preparation of such a long term plan. The main objective of the exercise is to make the coastal environment more secure and sustainable for its population. The perspective long term plan for 20 years would be prepared with observations over a period of 15 months involving an investment of Rs12 crore. The plan would include entire gamut of actions ranging from shoreline erosion to natural disaster management, from eco-sensitive zone preservation to sustainable developmental activities and building up a resilient environment for the people.
The expert agency IPE Global has been involved in the exercise to bring in international expertise and technical support for preparation of the perspective plan.