Environment Ministry Set to Permit Wider Petroleum Storage in Coastal Zones

India's Environment Ministry is poised to enable the storage of certain petroleum products, including linear alkyl benzene, n-paraffin, and carbon black feedstock, within coastal regulation zones (CRZs). However, this allowance will exclude ecologically sensitive CRZ-IA areas.

The regulations encompass the entire Indian coastline, including the Andaman and Nicobar and Lakshadweep Islands, covering coastal stretches such as seas, bays, and backwaters affected by tidal action. This decision follows recommendations from the Expert Appraisal Committee and the National Coastal Zone Management Authority, both citing the relatively low hazard posed by these substances compared to current approvals like crude oil and kerosene.

The ministry's draft notification emphasizes the consideration these products received due to their lower hazardous characteristics and the necessity of excluding sensitive CRZ-IA areas, which involve vital ecological zones like coral reefs and mangroves.

(With inputs from agencies.)