Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
India possesses a vast coastline of approximately 7,516.6 km, spanning nine states and Union Territories. This coastline is not merely a geographical feature but a crucial economic and ecological zone. It serves as a lifeline for millions, supporting fisheries, trade, tourism, and energy production. However, this extensive coastline is also highly vulnerable to a range of natural hazards like cyclones, tsunamis, sea-level rise, and coastal erosion. Therefore, understanding the resource potential alongside the status of natural hazard preparedness is vital for sustainable coastal development and disaster risk reduction.
Resource Potentials of India’s Long Coastline
India’s coastline is endowed with significant resource potential, categorized into living and non-living resources:
- Living Resources: These include a rich diversity of marine life, supporting a substantial fisheries sector.
- Fisheries: India ranks among the top ten fish-producing nations globally. Coastal fisheries contribute significantly to food security and livelihoods.
- Aquaculture: Shrimp farming and other aquaculture practices are prevalent along the coast, generating substantial export revenue.
- Seaweed: Potential for seaweed cultivation for phycocolloids (agar, alginates, carrageenan) used in food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics.
- Coral Reefs & Biodiversity: Coral reefs in Lakshadweep and Gulf of Mannar support diverse ecosystems and tourism.
- Non-Living Resources:
- Mineral Resources: Beach sand minerals like ilmenite, rutile, zircon, and monazite are found along the coasts of Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Odisha.
- Oil & Gas: Mumbai High and other offshore oil and gas fields contribute significantly to India’s energy security. Exploration activities are ongoing in other coastal regions.
- Port & Shipping: Major ports like Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, and Visakhapatnam facilitate international trade.
- Renewable Energy: Potential for harnessing tidal energy, wave energy, and offshore wind energy.
Status of Natural Hazard Preparedness
Despite the resource wealth, India’s coastal areas face significant challenges from natural hazards. The preparedness levels vary across states and hazard types.
Cyclones
The east coast is particularly vulnerable to cyclones. Preparedness measures include:
- Early Warning Systems: The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) provides cyclone forecasts and warnings. Doppler radar systems have improved accuracy.
- Cyclone Shelters: Construction of cyclone shelters along vulnerable coastlines. However, their capacity is often insufficient.
- National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA): Plays a crucial role in coordinating disaster response and mitigation efforts.
- Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) Notification (2019): Aims to regulate activities in coastal areas to minimize environmental damage and vulnerability.
Tsunamis
The Indian Ocean Tsunami of 2004 highlighted the need for improved tsunami preparedness.
- Indian Tsunami Early Warning System (ITEWS): Established in 2007, it provides tsunami warnings based on seismic data and sea-level monitoring.
- Coastal Hazard Mapping: Mapping of vulnerable areas to identify safe evacuation routes.
- Community Awareness Programs: Educating coastal communities about tsunami risks and evacuation procedures.
Sea-Level Rise & Coastal Erosion
These are long-term threats requiring proactive adaptation measures.
- National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC): Includes missions related to coastal ecosystem protection and sustainable coastal management.
- Mangrove Restoration: Mangroves act as natural buffers against storm surges and erosion.
- Seawalls & Breakwaters: Construction of hard infrastructure to protect coastlines, but these can have negative environmental impacts.
| Hazard | Preparedness Level | Gaps |
|---|---|---|
| Cyclones | Moderate to High (East Coast) | Insufficient shelter capacity, last-mile connectivity issues, lack of community preparedness in some areas. |
| Tsunamis | Moderate | Need for improved sea-level monitoring network, better integration of warning systems with local response mechanisms. |
| Sea-Level Rise/Erosion | Low | Lack of comprehensive coastal zone management plans, limited funding for adaptation measures, inadequate enforcement of CRZ regulations. |
Conclusion
India’s long coastline presents a unique opportunity for economic development and resource utilization. However, realizing this potential requires a holistic approach that integrates resource management with robust disaster preparedness. Strengthening early warning systems, investing in resilient infrastructure, promoting community participation, and implementing sustainable coastal zone management practices are crucial for ensuring the long-term sustainability and safety of India’s coastal communities. A proactive and adaptive strategy is essential to mitigate the growing risks posed by climate change and natural hazards.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.