[Model Answer QP2023 GS1] Comment on the resource potentials of the long coastline of India and I like the status of natural hazard preparedness in these areas.
The coastline of India is approximately 7,517 km long, inclusive of both its mainland and the islands. This extends for about 6,100 km and touches the states of Gujarat, Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, and West Bengal.
Resource Potentials of the Long Coastline of India:
1. Fisheries: The Indian coastline is rich in marine biodiversity, providing for a robust fishing industry that caters to both domestic consumption and export markets. Major fisheries hubs include Veraval, Mangalore, Chennai, and Visakhapatnam.
2. Ports & Shipping: Major ports like Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, and Cochin, as well as several minor ports, facilitate international trade and boost the Indian economy.
3. Tourism: Beach tourism, backwaters (like in Kerala), and related cultural events draw numerous domestic and international tourists. Goa, Kerala, and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are premier tourist destinations.
4. Energy: The coastline offers opportunities for both conventional energy, like the offshore oil and natural gas reserves (e.g., Bombay High), and renewable energy, especially wind and tidal energy.
5. Mineral Sands: The coastal areas, especially in states like Kerala and Tamil Nadu, have rich deposits of minerals like ilmenite, rutile, zircon, and garnet.
6. Salt Production: Salt pans along the coastline, especially in Gujarat and Tamil Nadu, contribute significantly to India’s salt production.
7. Aquaculture: The practice of aquaculture, especially shrimp farming, has seen growth in coastal regions, leading to exports and economic growth.
Status of Natural Hazard Preparedness in Coastal Areas:
India’s vast coastline is vulnerable to various natural hazards, primarily cyclones, tsunamis, and sea-level rise due to climate change.
Cyclone Preparedness:
1. Early Warning Systems: The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has developed capabilities for early cyclone warnings, which include predicting the path, intensity, and possible impact. 2. Infrastructure: Cyclone shelters, embankments, and saline embankments have been built in vulnerable regions. Disaster Response: National and state-level disaster response forces have been trained specifically for cyclonic events.
Tsunami Preparedness:
1. Tsunami Warning Center: Established in Hyderabad after the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, the center collaborates internationally to provide timely warnings. 2. Community Training: Coastal communities, especially in vulnerable areas like the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, have been trained in evacuation procedures and first response measures.
Sea-Level Rise and Coastal Erosion: Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) norms: Introduced to limit activities that might exacerbate coastal erosion or pose risks in vulnerable areas.
Mangrove Plantations: Mangroves act as natural barriers against sea-level rise and have been promoted along various parts of the Indian coast.
Community Engagement: There’s an emphasis on integrating local communities into disaster preparedness and response mechanisms, ensuring quicker and more effective ground-level actions.
Regular Drills: Periodic drills involving the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), state forces, and local communities ensure preparedness and familiarize all stakeholders with emergency protocols.
Conclusion:
Integrating state-of-the-art technologies, community involvement, and ecological conservation will be essential for holistic preparedness and response mechanisms.
