Understanding Coastal Changes in India
The National Centre for Coastal Research (NCCR) plays a vital role in studying the shoreline changes along the Indian coast. This organization, which operates under the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES), has meticulously mapped the entire 6,907.18 km long coastline of the Indian mainland. Their research identifies both natural and human-induced factors contributing to shoreline changes. Understanding these changes is crucial for protecting coastal areas and ensuring the sustainability of marine ecosystems.
Mapping the Indian Coastline
The NCCR has undertaken a comprehensive assessment of the Indian coastline using advanced satellite technology and field surveys. This assessment covers the period from 1990 to 2018 and reveals that a significant 34% of the Indian coastline is vulnerable to erosion. The study categorizes the causes of shoreline changes into two main groups: natural and anthropogenic. Natural causes include storm surges and rising sea levels, while human activities such as the construction of harbors, beach mining, and dam building on rivers are significant contributors to coastal erosion.
To better understand these changes, the NCCR has created 526 detailed maps of the Indian mainland coast at a scale of 1:25,000. These maps help identify vulnerable areas and provide essential data for coastal management. Additionally, 69 district maps and 9 state maps, along with 2 Union Territory maps, have been prepared. This extensive mapping effort culminated in the release of the report titled “National Assessment of Shoreline Changes along Indian Coast” in July 2018. The report has been shared with various government agencies and stakeholders to facilitate the implementation of effective shoreline protection measures.
Innovative Mitigation Measures
The NCCR has successfully demonstrated innovative coastal erosion mitigation measures in specific locations, such as Puducherry and Chellanam in Kerala. These projects have focused on restoring lost beaches and protecting vulnerable coastal areas from flooding. In Puducherry, the efforts have led to the restoration of the beach, while in Chellanam, a fishing village, measures have been taken to mitigate flooding risks.
These successful interventions showcase the importance of applying scientific research to real-world challenges. The NCCR provides technical support to several state governments, including Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Kerala. This support includes monitoring coastlines, designing coastal protection measures, and preparing Shoreline Management Plans. The implementation of these measures is carried out by the respective maritime states and Union Territories based on their priorities and needs.
Collaboration and Future Directions
The NCCR’s work is not done in isolation. Collaboration with various government agencies and stakeholders is essential for effective coastal management. The organization actively engages with local governments to ensure that the findings from their research are translated into actionable strategies. This collaboration is crucial for developing comprehensive coastal management plans that address the unique challenges faced by different regions.
As coastal erosion continues to pose a significant threat to India’s shoreline, ongoing research and monitoring are vital. The NCCR’s commitment to updating its findings and methodologies ensures that the data remains relevant and useful. The release of an updated version of the Atlas, along with a digital report containing all the maps, on March 25, 2022, exemplifies this commitment. By staying at the forefront of coastal research, the NCCR aims to provide the necessary tools and knowledge to protect India’s coastlines for future generations.
Source link
Observer Voice is the one stop site for National, International news, Editor’s Choice, Art/culture contents, Quotes and much more. We also cover historical contents. Historical contents includes World History, Indian History, and what happened today. The website also covers Entertainment across the India and World.