Systematic Study of Coastal Erosion and Defence Works in the Southwest Coast of India

The SouthWest coast of India is subjected to severe erosion due to attack by waves and tidal overflow. Through the years the problem has intensified as beach front areas have become more extensively developed and subject to greater damage from the force of the sea. More than 300 kms of the coast is subjected to severe erosion due to constant attack by waves and tidal overflow, resulting in continuous recession, loss of valuable property and affecting many aspects of its economy. The paper presents the problem at the proper perspective. It describes the various physical factors of the Southwest coast of India, namely the geomorphology, winds, waves, tides and currents, littoral drift, material characteristics, shore line and shore depth changes, effects of inlets and mudbanks. The study, evolution and development of different coastal defense works and their behaviour and effectiveness is also presented.