BHUBANESWAR: Some of the critically-important coastal eco-systems of Orissa are set to get a special mention when the Centre restores the Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) 1991 with certain amendments shortly. Both Bhitarkanika and Chilika figure in the draft for the significance they hold to the Indian coast. Under CRZ 2010, Bhitarkanika will be categorised as a Critically Vulnerable Coastal Area (CVCA). The Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF), which recognises the Sunderbans as one such area and suggested an integrated management plan for it, has also proposed a similar framework for others that include Gulf of Kutch in Gujarat, Malvan and Vasai- Manori in Maharashtra and a few others. Since most of these CVCAs are faced with different ecological pressures and the local communities too experience hardships due to infrastructure, MoEF suggests that an integrated management plan is necessary in consultation with the local population. Similarly, amended CRZ also pitches for special dispensation for certain biosphere reserves of the country. The reserves like Sunderbans and Chilika have sizeable population living in its heartland. While the original 1991 CRZ had restricted all kinds of development work in such biospheres, special permission was accorded to Sunderbans for certain infrastructure. Now, the same would be extended to Chilika, Gulf of Mannar, Peechavaram and Bhitarkanika under CRZ 2010. Interestingly, the new CRZ takes into account classification of the erosionprone areas along the coasts whereas the 1991 notification did not provide for any restriction on port development and other offshore development works in such vulnerable regions. Since majority of the erosion is man-made, directly or indirectly, the 2010 law has proposed that coastal stretches will be classified into high, medium erosion areas and low-stable coasts. No projects would be permitted in high erosion-prone areas whereas in the zone with medium level vulnerability to erosion will have comprehensive environment impact assessment implemented. Experts believe this could have a bearing on the State which is planning at least a dozen ports at different points of its coast.