Thu Feb 26 15:20:18 UTC 2026: ### Andhra Pradesh Government Faces Criticism for Coastal Regulation Zone Reclassification Plan

The Story:
The Human Rights Forum (HRF) has strongly criticized the Andhra Pradesh government’s proposal to reclassify sections of the Visakhapatnam Beach Road from Coastal Regulation Zone III (CRZ-III) to CRZ-II. The HRF alleges that this reclassification, under the guise of promoting tourism, is a thinly veiled attempt to weaken environmental safeguards and enable increased commercial development in ecologically sensitive coastal areas. The organization argues this move poses a significant threat to coastal ecology, increases vulnerability to disasters, and negatively impacts the livelihoods of traditional coastal communities.

The HRF highlighted Tourism Minister K. Durgesh’s statement from March 2025, where he expressed that CRZ norms were “hampering” tourism development, indicating the government’s intention to prioritize commercial interests over environmental protection. The organization demands the immediate withdrawal of the reclassification proposal.

Key Points:

  • The Andhra Pradesh government is seeking to reclassify stretches of Visakhapatnam Beach Road from CRZ-III to CRZ-II.
  • The HRF condemns the move, stating it will dilute environmental safeguards for commercial expansion.
  • CRZ-III areas include sand dunes, wetlands, and open coastal commons vital for traditional fishing communities.
  • The HRF argues the reclassification weakens disaster resilience in an area prone to cyclones like Hudhud and Titli.
  • Tourism Minister’s past statements suggest the government views CRZ norms as obstacles to tourism development.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Andhra Pradesh government’s focus on tourism development appears to be clashing with environmental protection efforts.
  • The HRF’s strong opposition suggests a potential legal and public battle over the proposed reclassification.
  • The reclassification proposal highlights the tension between economic development and ecological preservation in coastal regions.
  • The event underscores the importance of CRZ norms in protecting vulnerable coastal ecosystems and communities.
  • The timing of the proposal, amid escalating climate crisis, raises concerns about responsible governance.

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