SEA EROSION CHANGE IN LAND COVER, A RISING CONCERN

F the 7,500 km-long coastline gives the country advantage in terms of trade and tourism, it also is a matter of concern because of increasing coastal erosion.

- BOSKY KHANNA @Bengaluru

Experts have embarked on a large-scale mangrove afforestation drive along the sea shore under the Karnataka Shore project. While it will take time to produce results, a similar exercise by the National Centre for Coastal Research (NCCR), in Puducherry was successful. NCCR is working to replicate the Pondy model in Andhra Pradesh, Kerala and Tamil Nadu.

"Rock Beach in Puducherry has been recreated after noting a rise in erosion. The harbour was recreated in the southern region and now work is being done in the northern region. Reefs and structures have been added to break the waves reaching the coast," said a senior NCCR official.