Curation Team
KOCHI: The Kerala Coastal Zone Management Authority’s (KCZMA) decision that buildings should not be sold or transferred to non-traditional coastal communities has drawn apprehension among the coastal residents, as it affects those looking for joint ventures and other activities.
According to the pre-condition put forth by KCZMA for giving CRZ-2019 clearance for construction in these zones, the building should not be sold or transferred to non-traditional coastal communities. For residents obtaining a building permit for residential construction, it states that it should not be used for any commercial activity. The purpose of construction should not be altered under any circumstances, and it should have a proper septic tank. The secretary of the panchayat should furnish a compliance report to the above effect in due course, ensuring that all conditions are mentioned. If any violation is noticed, the panchayat secretary will be held accountable.
Ernakulam MP, Hibi Eden, in a communication to the KCZMA member secretary, Suneel Pamidi, said the restrictive condition stating that “the building should not be sold or transferred to non-traditional coastal communities” is causing considerable difficulties for applicants and property owners.
“The term ‘non-traditional coastal community’ lacks clarity and creates confusion in interpretation. More importantly, this condition may lead to the denial of loans from financial institutions when applicants attempt to use such property as collateral for purposes like higher education, medical expenses, or overseas studies of their children. The uncertainty around future ownership and transfer rights adversely impacts the value and usability of such properties,” he said.
Eden stated that when a restriction is placed on transferring the ownership of the building, it effectively obstructs the transfer of the land on which the building stands. This disproportionately affects residents in CRZ areas who are already vulnerable due to sea erosion and loss of land to water bodies. Imposing such limitations on land they lawfully own is neither reasonable nor justifiable.
He said the clause should be withdrawn and steps should be taken to expedite the processing of building permit applications in CRZ areas. If needed, a special adaalat may be conducted to address long-pending applications, ensuring timely relief to affected residents.
