India's extensive coastline is susceptible to erosion, posing a threat to coastal communities, especially those reliant on fishing. The National Centre for Coastal Research (NCCR) has been diligently monitoring shoreline changes, revealing that 33.6% of the Indian coastline is vulnerable to erosion. The government's commitment to combat sea erosion is evident through various measures and initiatives.
Shoreline Monitoring and Assessment:
- NCCR's comprehensive shoreline mapping system, utilizing satellite images and field-surveyed data from 1990 to 2018, highlighted the dynamic nature of India's coast.
- The vulnerability to erosion, accretion, and stable states were identified, prompting the release of the "National Assessment of Shoreline Changes along Indian Coast" in July 2018.
Government Measures and Commitments: The Government of India has undertaken proactive steps to address coastal erosion, emphasizing the protection of coastal areas and the livelihoods of communities. Key measures include:
Hazard Line Delineation:
- The Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change delineated a hazard line for the entire coast, indicating shoreline changes, including potential sea-level rise due to climate change.
- This line aids disaster management and adaptive planning in Coastal States.
Coastal Regulation Zone Notification, 2019:
- The Ministry has notified Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) Notification, 2019, aiming to conserve and protect coastal stretches.
- The regulations permit erosion control measures and establish No Development Zones to prevent encroachment and erosion.
Coastal Zone Management Plans:
- In compliance with the National Green Tribunal's order, Coastal States and Union Territories are urged to finalize Coastal Zone Management Plans, incorporating mapping of erosion-prone areas and Shore Line Management Plans.
National Strategy for Coastal Protection:
- The Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change has formulated a national strategy for coastal protection, providing guidelines for all Coastal States and Union Territories.
Flood Management Scheme:
- The Ministry of Jal Shakti implements anti-sea erosion schemes in collaboration with State Governments.
- Technical, advisory, and promotional assistance is provided to states based on their priorities.
Coastal Management Information System (CMIS):
- Initiated under the Central Sector Plan Scheme, CMIS collects near-shore coastal data crucial for planning and executing site-specific coastal protection
- Sites in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Puducherry have been established.
Successful Mitigation Measures:
- Coastal erosion mitigation projects at Puducherry and Chellanam in Kerala have demonstrated success in restoring and protecting coastal areas.
- Technical support from the government has aided coastal states in designing protection measures and formulating Shoreline Management Plans.