Odisha to prepare long-term plan to arrest coastal erosion

Bhubaneswar: Taking note of the erosion of the coastline in Odisha which has assumed alarming proportions, the state government has decided to prepare a long term integrated plan to ensure sustainable development of coastal areas and eco-supportive management of coastal resources.

A decision to this effect was taken at the first State Level Steering Committee meeting presided over by chief secretary Aditya Prasad Padhi at the State Secretariat here today.

The chief secretary made a case for addressing the problems of coastline erosion, resilient eco-system and vulnerability of livelihood due to climatic changes. He also suggested appropriate stakeholder consultation in preparation of the plan and ensuring people’s participation at different levels.

Briefing media persons after the meeting, Project Director, Integrated Coastal Zone Management Project (ICZMP) Dr Ajit Patnaik said Odisha is the first state to initiate action on preparation of such a long term plan.

He said the main objective of the exercise is to make the coastal environment more secure and sustainable for its population.

“The long term perspective plan for 20 years would be prepared after observations over a period of 15 months involving an investment of Rs 12 crore. The plan would include the entire gamut of action ranging from shoreline erosion to natural disaster management, from preservation of eco-sensitive zone 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,” Patnaik said.