Recent assessments by the National Centre for Coastal Research (NCCR) have brought into light coastal erosion issues along the Tamil Nadu coastline. The findings reveal 69 erosional stretches, with 20 sites identified for urgent reformation. This analysis is part of a broader Shoreline Management Plan (SMP) aimed at addressing coastal vulnerabilities.
Shoreline Management Plan Overview
The Shoreline Management Plan is mandated by the Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) Notification of 2011. This notification requires states to develop a comprehensive Coastal Zone Management Plan. The SMP includes the classification of CRZ categories, assessment of shoreline changes, and a coastal land use map that identifies critical ecological areas.
Recent Findings and Affected Areas
The NCCR’s survey identified multiple regions in need of reformation. Key areas include: – Chennai – From Tiruvottiyur to Kasimedu Harbour. – Chengalpattu – Olive Beach, Devaneri, and Mamallapuram. – Mayiladuthurai – Tharangampadi and Pombuhar. – Nagapattinam – Akkaraipettai and Velankanni. – Ramanathapuram – Mookaiyur. – Thoothukudi – Vembar, Tiruchendur, and Manappad. – Kanniyakumari – Mel Midalam, Enayamputhen-thurai, Erayumanthurai, Edappadu, Vallavilai, and Marthandamthurai. – Puducherry – Kottakuppam to Kurichikuppam and Pondy Marina.
Methodology of the Assessment
The assessment involved a month-long survey conducted by multiple teams. Various factors were considered, including coastal geomorphology, river inlets, eco-sensitive areas, and socio-economic conditions of coastal populations. Data on coastal structures and met-ocean parameters were also incorporated.
Action Plan and Future Steps
The SMP includes an action plan to address both immediate and long-term coastal protection needs. It aims to combat erosion while promoting sustainable development. The plan is currently awaiting approval from the Government of India, with public comments expected in January 2025.
Impact of Coastal Structures
Approximately 13.5% of Tamil Nadu’s coastline is occupied by artificial structures. These structures, along with river regulation and rising sea levels, contribute to coastal erosion and accretion. Kanniyakumari and Tiruvallur are noted for their high concentration of coastal structures, necessitating tailored management strategies.
Importance of Sustainable Development
The SMP not only addresses erosion but also considers the sustainable development of coastal areas. Strategies are being developed to protect vulnerable regions while ensuring the ecological integrity of the coastline.
Questions for UPSC:
- Examine the implications of coastal erosion on local economies and communities in Tamil Nadu.
- Critically discuss the effectiveness of the Coastal Regulation Zone Notification in managing coastal resources.
- With suitable examples, discuss the role of artificial structures in coastal management and their impact on erosion.
- Analyse the socio-economic factors influencing coastal vulnerability in the context of Tamil Nadu’s shoreline.
Answer Hints:
1. Examine the implications of coastal erosion on local economies and communities in Tamil Nadu.
- Coastal erosion leads to loss of land, impacting property values and livelihoods.
- Fisheries and tourism, vital to local economies, are severely affected by eroded coastlines.
- Displacement of communities occurs, creating social and economic instability.
- Infrastructure damage increases repair costs, straining local government resources.
- Long-term erosion may necessitate relocation, further disrupting community cohesion.
2. Critically discuss the effectiveness of the Coastal Regulation Zone Notification in managing coastal resources.
- The CRZ Notification aims to protect ecologically sensitive coastal areas through regulated development.
- It mandates states to create comprehensive Coastal Zone Management Plans, which can enhance local governance.
- However, enforcement remains a challenge, often leading to illegal constructions and resource exploitation.
- Public awareness and participation are limited, affecting the notification’s overall effectiveness.
- Periodic reviews and updates of the notification are necessary to adapt to changing coastal dynamics.
3. With suitable examples, discuss the role of artificial structures in coastal management and their impact on erosion.
- Artificial structures like seawalls and groins can protect shorelines but may exacerbate erosion elsewhere.
- In Kanniyakumari, coastal protection structures have prevented immediate erosion but altered sediment flow.
- Chennai’s seawalls have shielded urban areas, yet they can lead to increased vulnerability in adjacent regions.
- Examples of successful management include the use of breakwaters to dissipate wave energy and reduce erosion.
- Balancing the construction of artificial structures with natural solutions is crucial for sustainable management.
4. Analyse the socio-economic factors influencing coastal vulnerability in the context of Tamil Nadu’s shoreline.
- High population density in coastal regions increases pressure on resources and infrastructure.
- Poverty levels affect community resilience, limiting the ability to adapt to erosion impacts.
- Dependence on fisheries and agriculture makes communities vulnerable to environmental changes.
- Limited access to technology and information hampers effective disaster preparedness and response.
- Government policies and support systems play a critical role in enhancing community resilience to coastal vulnerabilities.
