ICZMPWB is your gateway to the world of coastal sustainability in West Bengal. Whether you’re a community member, researcher, conservation enthusiast, or simply someone who cares about the environment, this platform is designed to bring you insights, updates, and knowledge from the vibrant efforts of the Integrated Coastal Zone Management Project. Our mission is to protect West Bengal’s delicate coastal ecosystems, promote climate resilience, and uplift the livelihoods of local communities. Join us as we tackle the challenges threatening our precious coastal heritage, working hand-in-hand with government bodies, local residents, scientists, and environmental organizations.

Integrated Coastal Zone Management Project (ICZMP)

ICZMPWB Homepage

The Integrated Coastal Zone Management Project (ICZMP) is a World Bank-assisted initiative aimed at ensuring sustainable development and resilience in West Bengal’s coastal regions. The project is funded by the World Bank, with funds managed by the Institute of Environmental Studies and Wetland Management (IESWM). The total project cost is estimated at Rs. 60 crores.

Jadavpur University is engaged in soil testing, surveys, design, drawing, and preparation of Bill of Quantities (B.O.Q.) for the project. The Civil Engineering department is responsible for the work, with a total cost of Rs. 25 lakh plus tax, and 50% (i.e., Rs. 12.5 lakh) has been paid. The Architecture Department is handling the design, drawing, and B.O.Q., with a total cost of Rs. 25 lakh plus tax, of which 50% (i.e., Rs. 12.5 lakh) has also been paid.

A major component of the project involves the construction of 25 Multipurpose Cyclone Shelters (MPCS) in South 24 Parganas under ICZMP. The IESWM, a State Government undertaking, is authorized to manage the construction of these shelters. Site selection has been undertaken by Disaster Management authorities, while surveys and soil testing have been completed by Jadavpur University.

The construction of the cyclone shelters is being carried out in two phases:

  • Phase I: Pathorprotima Block (5 centers), Sagar Block (5 centers), Namkhana Block (3 centers)
    • Total: 13 centers
  • Phase II: Gosaba Block (7 centers), Basanti Block (5 centers)
    • Total: 12 centers

Two types of cyclone shelters have been approved for construction:

  • Type A (Big): 382 square meters
  • Type B (Small): 347 square meters

Jadavpur University will submit all construction-related documents by December 9, 2013, for Phase I and December 16, 2013, for Phase II. Monitoring and supervision of the construction work will be handled by the Project Management Consultant (PMC), which will be engaged by IESWM.

Protecting the Rich Coastal Environment

The coastal regions of West Bengal are home to a diverse array of ecosystems, ranging from mangrove forests to sandy beaches, estuaries, and coastal wetlands. These ecosystems are not only critical to the biodiversity of the state but also provide essential resources and livelihood opportunities to local communities. Unfortunately, these regions face significant threats, including rising sea levels, increased frequency of extreme weather events, habitat degradation, and pollution.

The ICZMPWB is dedicated to addressing these challenges through a comprehensive and integrated approach to coastal zone management. By employing cutting-edge scientific research, engaging in active community participation, and promoting sustainable policies, we aim to safeguard West Bengal’s coastal environment for present and future generations.

Key Objectives of ICZMPWB

  • Sustainable Coastal Development: We strive for sustainable development by balancing ecological preservation with the needs of local communities. The focus is on creating a harmonious relationship between nature and people.
  • Climate Resilience: Climate change poses a serious threat to coastal regions, with sea-level rise and extreme weather affecting both ecosystems and local populations. ICZMPWB aims to increase the resilience of vulnerable communities and natural systems through climate adaptation strategies.
  • Biodiversity Conservation: The Sundarbans, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the Royal Bengal Tiger, are an iconic part of West Bengal’s coastal area. We work towards the conservation of such critical habitats to maintain biodiversity and protect endangered species.
  • Community Empowerment: Coastal communities are at the heart of the ICZMPWB. Our project focuses on building capacity, empowering locals, and enhancing livelihoods through alternative income-generating activities such as eco-tourism, aquaculture, and skill development.

Major Initiatives

1. Mangrove Restoration

Mangroves are essential for protecting coastlines from erosion, acting as natural buffers against storm surges, and serving as vital habitats for numerous species. Under ICZMPWB, a significant focus is placed on restoring degraded mangrove forests through replantation initiatives and community-led conservation activities. We collaborate with local communities to educate them on the importance of mangroves and encourage their participation in planting and monitoring efforts.

2. Pollution Control and Waste Management

Pollution from industrial, agricultural, and domestic sources continues to threaten coastal ecosystems. The ICZMPWB promotes initiatives to reduce pollution levels in coastal areas by working with industries to adopt best practices, establishing waste management systems, and creating public awareness about the harmful effects of pollution. Proper waste disposal and treatment strategies are key to ensuring a cleaner and healthier coastline.

3. Coastal Infrastructure Development

To safeguard against climate threats and natural disasters, ICZMPWB has undertaken various initiatives to enhance the resilience of coastal infrastructure. This includes the construction of cyclone shelters, embankment strengthening, and the development of early warning systems to minimize risks associated with extreme weather events. Our goal is to protect both human lives and assets in vulnerable coastal areas.

4. Research and Monitoring

Scientific research is at the core of effective coastal management. ICZMPWB partners with research institutions, universities, and independent experts to conduct regular monitoring of coastal ecosystems. Through data collection and analysis, we are able to track changes in coastal biodiversity, water quality, and habitat conditions, which informs our conservation and intervention efforts.

5. Promoting Sustainable Livelihoods

A significant part of our work involves improving the livelihoods of people living in coastal areas. By providing training on sustainable practices, promoting eco-friendly aquaculture, and supporting small-scale fisheries, we aim to enhance the economic well-being of coastal communities. In addition, we also promote eco-tourism initiatives that offer income opportunities while encouraging conservation efforts.

Community Involvement and Participation

The success of ICZMPWB largely depends on the involvement of local communities. By including communities in every step of the project, we ensure that they have a sense of ownership and responsibility toward the conservation of their own environment. We organize awareness campaigns, workshops, and training programs to build knowledge and capacity among local stakeholders, encouraging their participation in conservation and sustainable livelihood initiatives.

We also work closely with local leaders and community-based organizations to identify pressing issues and create tailor-made solutions. Our community-driven approach ensures that interventions are culturally relevant, well-accepted, and sustainable in the long term.

Partners ICZMPWB

ICZMPWB collaborates with a diverse group of partners, including government agencies, non-governmental organizations, academic institutions, and international organizations. Our partnerships allow us to leverage expertise and resources from different sectors, which strengthens our capacity to meet our objectives and address the complex challenges facing West Bengal’s coastal regions.

  • Government Agencies: The Government of West Bengal, through various departments, plays a vital role in policy support, funding, and coordination of project activities.
  • Academic Institutions: Collaboration with universities and research institutes is essential to generate scientific data and promote evidence-based decision-making.
  • Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs): We partner with local and international NGOs to deliver community-based initiatives and enhance outreach efforts.
  • International Organizations: Organizations such as the World Bank and UNDP support ICZMPWB by providing technical assistance, funding, and sharing global best practices in coastal management.

Get Involved

If you are passionate about protecting our coastlines and want to make a difference, there are many ways to get involved with ICZMPWB. Whether you are a student, researcher, community member, or just someone who cares about the environment, we welcome your support. You can participate in our awareness drives, volunteer for mangrove plantation events, or contribute to our community development initiatives.

We believe that the coastal challenges of today can only be addressed through collective action. Join us in our journey towards a resilient and sustainable coastal future for West Bengal.

Contact Details

State Project Management Unit (SPMU), West Bengal Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM) Project Funded by: The World Bank

Institute of Environmental Studies & Wetland Management Department Of Environment, Government of West Bengal

Address: DD–24, Sector–I, Salt Lake City, Kolkata–700 064 Phone No.: (033) 2334 1020/0531/0239, 2337 9240 Fax No.: 91-33-2358 0967 Email: [email protected]