Maharashtra Gets Approval for New Coastal Zone Management Authority After Eight-Month Delay
After a prolonged eight-month delay, the Maharashtra Coastal Zone Management Authority (MCZMA) has finally been approved by the Centre, allowing over 165 critical infrastructure and development projects to move forward in the state’s coastal regions.
Coastal ManagementInfrastructure ProjectsEnvironmental ClearanceMczmaMaharashtraReal Estate MaharashtraJul 09, 2025
The newly approved MCZMA committee comes after two previously proposed panels were rejected by the Union Ministry of Environment and Forests. Sources confirmed that Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis had expressed strong displeasure over the prolonged delay, which had caused significant project backlogs. The last meeting regarding the authority’s reconstitution was held in December 2024 under the tenure of Pravin Darade, then Principal Secretary of the Environment Department.
The delay was primarily due to restrictions on reappointments; individuals who had already served two terms in the MCZMA were deemed ineligible for a new term. It was only after a fresh list was submitted that the Centre issued the final notification approving the committee.
Several projects by agencies such as the BMC, MMRDA, and CIDCO were in limbo, pending environmental clearance from MCZMA as required under the Coastal Regulation Zone provisions of the Environment Protection Act, 1986. These include developments in Mumbai, Thane, Raigad, Ratnagiri, Palghar, and Sindhudurg.
The new committee will be chaired by Jayashree Bhoj, secretary of the environment department. It includes senior officials from revenue, urban development, fisheries, and forestry departments, as well as academic and environmental experts. Notable members include Dr Lakshmipura Ranganath from CWPRS, Dr Milind Sardesai of Savitribai Phule Pune University, Dr Amit Bansiwal from NEERI, and Aneesh Andheria from the Wildlife Conservation Trust.
A senior environment department official confirmed that the first meeting of the reconstituted authority will be scheduled next week. Industry leaders, including the Maharashtra Chamber of Housing Industry, welcomed the decision and urged swift action to clear the mounting backlog of projects.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the MCZMA?
The Maharashtra Coastal Zone Management Authority (MCZMA) is a regulatory body responsible for managing and protecting the coastal areas of Maharashtra, ensuring that development projects adhere to environmental standards.
Why was the formation of the MCZMA delayed?
The formation of the MCZMA was delayed due to restrictions on reappointments, as individuals who had already served two terms were deemed ineligible for a new term. This led to a prolonged process of forming a new committee.
How many projects were affected by the delay?
Over 165 critical infrastructure and development projects across Maharashtra’s coastal regions were affected by the delay in forming the MCZMA.
Who chairs the new MCZMA committee?
The new MCZMA committee is chaired by Jayashree Bhoj, the secretary of the environment department.
When is the first meeting of the reconstituted MCZMA scheduled?
The first meeting of the reconstituted MCZMA is scheduled for next week, as confirmed by a senior environment department official.
Related News Articles
Retail Sector Sees Unprecedented Growth in First Half of 2024
India's retail sector witnesses strongest H1 leasing in 5 years, with 3.1 mn sq. ft. of retail space leased across 8 cities.
Maharashtra DGP Rashmi Shukla Transferred Ahead of Assembly Elections
The Election Commission has directed the Maharashtra Chief Secretary to transfer DGP Rashmi Shukla to the next senior-most IPS officer in the cadre, following complaints from political parties.
Alpine Income Property Trust Director Sells Shares for $17,690
In a recent transaction, a director of Alpine Income Property Trust sold shares worth $17,690. This move comes as the company continues to strengthen its board with the appointment of Brenna A. Wadleigh, who brings extensive experience in commercial real
2024: A Year of Growth for the Real Estate Sector in Mumbai
The real estate sector in Mumbai witnessed significant advancements in 2024, driven by a rising middle class and a surge in investments. These developments highlight Mumbai's commitment to enhancing infrastructure and improving the quality of life.
RERA's Authority Over Unregistered Projects: Punjab and Haryana High Court Upholds Allottees' Rights
The Punjab and Haryana High Court has ruled that the non-registration of a real estate project under the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016 (RERA) does not nullify the rights of allottees. This landmark decision provides clarity and protection for homebuyers in unregistered projects.
Mumbai Real Estate: Transforming Your Home into a Business Hub
Explore how the real estate market in Mumbai is adapting to the growing trend of home-based businesses, offering flexible and affordable solutions for entrepreneurs and freelancers.