The , southern zone, has directed the AP government to pay an interim compensation of Rs.5 crore for the damage caused to themangrovesin the existing area covering an extent of nearly 18 acres.
The NGT said the quantum of compensation awarded is subject to further compensation to be assessed by the committee appointed by it. The amount should be paid to the APCZMA, which can utilise it for protecting the coastal Environment including protection, conservation and preservation of the existing MANGROVES in the coastal area, in the area in dispute, and other areas.
The amount will also be utilised for increasing the mangrove forest cover in the coastal zone so as to enhance resilience to disasters like Climate-change”>Climate Change, flood erosion and cyclonic effect.
AP has two mangrove forests – in Godavari and Krishna estuaries.The Coringa mangrove sanctuary in the estuary of the Godavari is the second biggest mangrove forest in India after the Sundarbans.
The area has been classified as CRZ – I and CRZ – IA respectively.
He said a deemed forest has been declared and it is also near Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary. So cutting and removal of trees/mangroves in the area is in violation of Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, CRZ Notification 2011 and 2019 and the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980.