In Brief
In this appeal, a resort developer challenged orders prohibiting construction on Nediyathuruthu island in Vembanad lake, Kerala, based on Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) Notifications. The developer argued the island fell under CRZ IV where restrictions were not absolute, and that regulatory failures and earlier permits undermined the prohibition. The Supreme Court upheld the High Court's decision, finding that backwater islands fall under CRZ I, not CRZ IV, and are subject to strict environmental protections. The Court held that prior High Court precedent (Vaamika Island) had conclusively decided the common issues, the distinguishing features between the two islands were immaterial, and the regulatory framework validly protected Vembanad lake as an ecologically sensitive coastal wetland. The appeals were dismissed.",
The lawyer headnote and full judgment text are available to registered users.