Remote Sensing and GIS Applications for Suitable Mangrove Afforestation Area Selection in the Coastal Zone of Bangladesh

Abstract

The Cox's Bazar coast of Bangladesh consists of fluvial and tidal geomorphological deposits created from weathered materials from the nearby lands, towering cliffs and mountainous hills and ultimately carried by the Matamuhuri river, the Baghkhali river and numerous small tributaries and canals. This factor helps in the formation of a newly accreted coastal landscape, which gives an opportunity for mangrove afforestation. The coast is well known as a cyclone path, and is subjected to periodic cyclones that originate in the Bay of Bengal, and therefore, creation of a green shelter belt to mitigate the damaging effect of cyclonic winds, storm surges and tidal waves, was felt to be a necessity. Landsat TM image was used to locate and measure the accreted mudflat areas along the coast and then land suitability classification was done considering the important spatial criteria for better planning and scientific management for mangrove plantation. The study revealed that 2,146 ha is most suitable and 1,605 ha is moderately suitable for mangrove plantation.