CRZ-2019 Finally Clears Path for Development in Daman and Diu

VAPI: In a major policy shift expected to unlock years of stalled development, the Central Government has officially implemented the Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ)-2019 framework in the Union Territory of Daman and Diu. The move replaces the stringent provisions of CRZ-2011, which had long been blamed for delaying construction, tourism projects, infrastructure development and private investment.

The implementation of the new coastal management plan comes nearly seven years after the Centre issued the CRZ-2019 notification, with the process delayed by coastal mapping, environmental scrutiny, public consultations and regulatory approvals.

The revised framework seeks to strike a balance between environmental conservation and economic development by introducing more practical regulations for coastal areas.

Independent MP from Daman and Diu, Umesh Patel, welcomed the decision, describing it as a landmark step for the region’s future.

“The implementation of CRZ-2019 is a historic and visionary decision. The restrictions under CRZ-2011 had slowed housing, tourism, fisheries, public infrastructure and investment. The new framework will remove many of these practical hurdles,” Patel said.

He also urged the Centre to classify Daman under the CRZ-II category and grant Diu separate island status, saying these changes would further support planned urban and tourism development.

The new policy is expected to simplify construction approvals, encourage tourism projects, speed up public infrastructure works and attract fresh domestic and private investment. It is also likely to create new employment opportunities by promoting sustainable coastal development.

Officials believe CRZ-2019 will help fast-track long-pending projects while ensuring environmental safeguards remain in place. With greater regulatory clarity and a development-friendly approach, the new framework is expected to give Daman and Diu a significant economic boost without compromising the protection of its ecologically sensitive coastline.