Surat : Villagers Protest Land Release Under CRZ

Surat : Residents and farmers from the coastal villages of Olpad and Choryasi talukas are gearing up for a massive protest against the government’s contentious move to release valuable lands falling under the Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) in 84 villages within Olpad and Choriyasi talukas. The focal point of this dissent will be the Khutai Mata temple in Olpad, where a substantial gathering of farmers is anticipated on Thursday.

Organized under the auspices of the Kantha Vistar Koli Patel Samaj Paramita Trust and Khedut Samaj Gujarat (KGS), this pivotal meeting aims to voice concerns over the potential repercussions of releasing these lands ahead of the public hearing organised by Gujarat Pollution Control Board (GPCB) at the Veer Narmad South Gujarat Unversity (VNSGU) on the draft Coastal Zone Management Plan (CZMP) of the 84 coastal villages in Olpad and Choriyasi taluka in Surat on December 29.

“At the heart of this protest is our deep-seated worry regarding the government’s intention to release these lands. This action could have far-reaching implications for our communities and the environment,” expressed one of the farmers, highlighting the collective unease prevailing among the locals.

The Gujarat Pollution Control Board (GPCB) has organised a public hearing at the Veer Narmad South Gujarat Unversity (VNSGU) on the draft CZMP of the coastal villages in Olpad and Choriyasi taluka in Surat on December 29.

The agenda for the gathering includes an informative session at Olpad, focusing on comprehending the draft Coastal Zone Management Plan (CZMP) maps and channeling suggestions to the government. This effort aims to foster an understanding of the conservation strategies for biologically sensitive marine and coastal areas within the Coastal Regulation Zone in Gujarat State.

“Understanding the intricacies of the Coastal Zone Management Plan and its implications is crucial for us. We want to ensure that our concerns are heard and that any decision made considers the well-being of our coastal regions,” said Ramesh Patel, president of South Gujarat Khedut Samaj, emphasizing the significance of this program.

The draft CZMP, initiated by the Government of India and Gujarat, has sparked widespread discontent. These maps, administered by the Gujarat Pollution Control Board to the Gram Panchayats of the state, provide detailed information, including survey numbers, sparking concerns among the villagers about the fate of their lands.

“In the wake of these developments, public hearings in Surat district are scheduled on 29-12-2023. These gatherings are pivotal opportunities for us to voice our apprehensions and engage in dialogue with the authorities,” added another concerned farmer.

Jayesh Patel, president of Khedut Samaj Gujarat (KSG) said, “The villagers aim to use their collective voice to ensure their concerns are addressed, advocating for a balanced approach that safeguards their lands, livelihoods, and the fragile coastal ecosystem”.