Historical Shoreline Analysis and Field Monitoring at Ennore Coastal Stretch along the Southeast Coast of India

Abstract

A shoreline change analysis has been carried out for the coastal stretch from Ennore creek to Karungali village located along the southeast coast of India. This 15 km-long coastal stretch had undergone significant changes such as erosion and accretion concerning infrastructure developments and leading to large impact on the livelihood of the community. To assess the shoreline changes, the analysis of multi-temporal satellite images has been carried out. A historical trend is established for the study period from 1991 to 2019. The analysis has been made in three timelines considering various developing activities. There was no significant coastal infrastructure development during 1991 to 1999; however, between 1999 and 2009, a major port, pier, and a groyne field were constructed. Additionally, a port was established between 2009 and 2019. Erosion was observed on the coast from Kattupalli to Karungali at a rate of −16.85 m/yr since 2009, while the coast on the south of Ennore port is accreting at the rate of +12.43 m/yr during the same period. The near-future projection using a linear regression model shows further erosion in the coast under similar conditions. The results of this study provide a baseline data for future anthropogenic activities along this coast.