Rising sea levels, erosion threaten Digha-Mandarmani coastline

A combination of rising sea levels, intensified coastal erosion and human interventions is wreaking havoc along the Digha-Mandarmani-Dadanpatrabar coastline, a stretch renowned for its scenic beauty and vibrant tourism.

- BISWABRATA GOSWAMI

Recent studies have revealed alarming trends that pose significant threats to the region's ecology, economy, and livelihood.

Data collected over the past 30 years shows a dramatic rise in sea levels along the Digha-Dadanpatrabar stretch, particularly during the monsoon, where levels have surged by a few meters.

The annual mean sea level increase is measured at 3.4 mm per year, exceeding the global average of 3 mm.

"This rise is partly driven by rapid climate change and the increasing frequency of cyclones, which bring storm surges that exacerbate coastal erosion," explained Dr Ashis Kumar Paul, a geomorphologist from Vidyasagar University.

Additionally, land subsidence at an annual rate of 4 mm has compounded the sea level rise, effectively elevating it to 7.4 mm per year in the region, a figure Dr Paul describes as "alarmingly high."

Erosion is rapidly altering the region's coastline.

Satellite imagery from 1992 to 2022 reveals long-term shoreline changes at Digha beach, which is eroding at an average rate of -0.54 meters per year.