Athul Krishnan, Atal Bihari Vajpayee School of Legal Studies, Chhatrapati Shahu Ji Maharaj University, Kanpur
ABSTRACT
"We need to protect our coastal environment as if our lives depended on it—because they do." - Philippe Cousteau Jr.
Coastal erosion poses a critical challenge along India's extensive 7,500- kilometer coastline, impacting approximately 33.6% of its coastal areas from 1990 to 2018, as highlighted by the National Centre for Coastal Research (NCCR). This phenomenon significantly affects coastal communities, particularly fishermen, by diminishing land crucial for fishing operations and boat storage. West Bengal stands out as the most severely affected state, with 60% of its coastline eroding over the study period, followed by Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Puducherry.
The causes of coastal erosion encompass natural forces such as storms, tidal actions, and sea level rise, compounded by anthropogenic activities like port and dam construction. In response, the Government of India has implemented measures including delineating a hazard line, enacting the Coastal Regulation Zone Notification 2019, and endorsing erosion control initiatives. However, addressing coastal erosion remains complex, entailing social, economic, and environmental dimensions.
To mitigate its impacts and safeguard vulnerable coastal regions, a comprehensive strategy integrating scientific research, community engagement, and sustainable policies is imperative. Coastal erosion, defined as the process whereby marine forces reshape coastal features through wave action, currents, tides, and sediment movement, poses unique challenges due to India's diverse geographic and environmental characteristics. These challenges include climate change impacts, infrastructure vulnerabilities, rapid urbanization, and displacement.
International treaties and agreements provide a framework for nations to formulate laws and policies for marine and coastal conservation. In India, legislation such as the Biological Diversity Act (2002), Environment (Protection) Act (1986), and Wildlife (Protection) Act (1972) underscore the dual objectives of preserving biodiversity and ensuring sustainable development along the coastline. These regulations are essential for balancing environmental preservation with socio-economic development, thereby supporting coastal livelihoods and habitat conservation.
Keywords: Coastal erosion, India, vulnerability, mitigation strategies, environmental conservation, socio-economic impacts
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