Application of Numerical Model in Suspended Sediment Transport Studies along the Central Kerala, West-coast of India

Abstract

The objective of the present study is to understand the sediment transport along the central Kerala coast. The data used in the study include winds, tides, bathymetry and the satellite derived suspended sediment concentrations (SSCs). A sediment transport model - MIKE 21 Mud Transport (MT) - for combinedcurrents, and SSCs is used to quantify and to find out the movement of fine sediments along the coast. MIKE MT is interrelated with the other modules of MIKE 21 Hydrodynamics (HD) module. The HD module simulate the water level variations and flows in response to a variety of forcing functions in coastal areas. Suspended sediment transport in the coastal waters of central Kerala is simulated utilizing the SSC data derived from Oceansat-2 Ocean Colour Monitor (OCM) satellite imagery, using the MIKE-21 MT model for the period 18thto 24thJanuary 2011. The SSCs of 18thJanuary 2011 are considered as the initial condition in MIKE 21 MT model and the model is simulated for the period from 18th to 24th January 2011. The simulated SSCs are compared with satellite derived SSCs. The results exhibit good coefficient of determination among these variables. Sediment dispersion patterns are explained in relation to simulated tidal currents, dominated by the southward flowing coastal currents, which are more consistent in its direction and magnitude along the coast. It is observed that tides, winds and currents arethe important physical factors that control the dispersal patterns. The results suggest that sediment transport is from north to south during the study period i.e., in January 2011.