What is coastal erosion ? Discuss factors causing coastal erosion. Why is erosion dominant in the Eastern coast than the Western coast in India ?
In short
Coastal erosion is the wearing away of shoreline sediment by waves, tides and currents, worsened by sea-level rise, sediment-trapping dams and ports. The Eastern coast erodes more because of frequent Bay of Bengal cyclones, gentle low-lying shores and reduced Godavari and Krishna sediment, as land loss at Uppada shows.
Model answer
Ghissu Editorial · Verified 4 Oct 2026 · 296 words
Process and Regional Example
Coastal erosion is sediment loss by waves and tides causing shoreline retreat; Andhra Pradesh faces erosion from mangrove depletion and industrial interference at Visakhapatnam port. This alters coastal geography and threatens habitats and infrastructure.
Natural and Human Factors
Bay of Bengal cyclones cause storm surges; sea-level rise and land subsidence worsen erosion; dams reduce sediment supply; coastal infrastructure disrupts sediment flow. Human activities like removal of protective vegetation accelerate shoreline instability.
Natural Forces and Sediment Deficit
Frequent cyclones and storms on the Eastern coast increase erosion; upstream dams on rivers like Godavari and Krishna reduce sediment reaching the coast, weakening natural replenishment. Sea-level rise due to climate change further intensifies shoreline retreat.
Geomorphology and Human Impact
The Eastern coast’s gentle slopes and fine sediments are more erosion-prone than the rocky Western coast; port development near Visakhapatnam and Kakinada exacerbates sediment disruption. The low-lying coastlines are more vulnerable to wave energy and storm surges.
Integrated Management and Resilience
Implementing Coastal Zone Management in Andhra Pradesh, restoring mangroves, building adaptive defenses like permeable groynes, and enhancing monitoring can reduce erosion risks. Community engagement and climate-resilient infrastructure are essential for sustainable coastal protection.
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