SEA EROSION - CHANGE IN LAND COVER, A RISING CONCERN

IF the 7,500 km-long coastline gives the country advantage in terms of trade and tourism, it also is a matter of concern because of increasing coastal erosion.

Globally, there has been a 20 cm rise in sea level since 1900, which means the sea ingressed into land by as much as 10 metres. Over time, many islands and settlements on land have been lost. Besides, islands that were not even documented are being swallowed by the sea surge.

"There is a lot of administrative failure in maintaining coastal data. Instead of assessing data from 1887 when the first base maps were made or even from 1984 when the government started work on coastal areas, agencies under the government are using data available from 1991 for assessment. This should not be happening," say experts.

To address sea erosion, government agencies have tried several measures like the building of stone walls in Karnataka. "But it has negative consequences. Stone walls result in the rise in high tides in neighbouring states, prompting them to file objections with the Port Authority of India. The fisheries department has also raised objections as it has affected marine species," experts said.