The Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC) of the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has asked the Tamil Nadu government to revise the design of the proposed International Dugong Conservation Centre at Manora, Thanjavur district. The project, costing ₹40.94 crore, aims to conserve, research, rescue, and raise awareness about dugongs. The centre will spread across nearly 28,000 square meters in an ecologically sensitive Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ), including CRZ-III No Development Zone and CRZ-I areas with mangroves and seagrass meadows. The EAC noted dugongs are critically endangered and crucial for seagrass ecosystems but raised concerns over extensive concrete construction planned in this pristine area. Almost 22,000 square meters fall inside the No Development Zone. The EAC highlighted that the design relies heavily on conventional concrete structures, which are harmful to the environment. "Structures meant for environmental awareness and education should adopt a Low Impact Engineering approach that minimises environmental harm and blends with the natural surroundings," the committee stated. The EAC advised using eco-friendly alternatives like timber-based construction, prefabricated materials, or composite materials. It also suggested moving as many structures as possible out of the No Development Zone. The State government must study best practices from similar centres across India. The committee will reconsider the proposal after Tamil Nadu submits a revised plan focusing on low-impact, nature-sensitive construction aligned with conservation goals.