Analyzing Coastal Dynamics and Erosion Susceptibility in Kasaragod Coast, Kerala Using DSAS-Based Shoreline Metrics

Abstract

The shoreline, which serves as the boundary between land and water, is inherently dynamic and plays a crucial role in providing economic and social stability to coastal communities. As one of the most rapidly transforming landforms in coastal regions, it necessitates precise detection and continuous monitoring to effectively understand the processes and dynamics of various coastal features. The present study is to investigate the shoreline changes along the coast of Kasaragod by the application of 5.0 version of Digital Shoreline Analysis System (DSAS). Demarcation of coastline accretion and erosion were performed utilizing the Landsat images for 1991,2001,2011 and 2021. The shoreline changes were calculated using Net Shoreline Movement, End Point Rate, Linear Regression Rate and Shoreline Change Envelope. Based on the results, the maximum distance of shoreline change is 331.02 meters which is found at North of Kasargod harbour and the minimum distance of 0.44 m is found at Valiyaparamba beach. It was discovered throughout the study that erosion had affected most of the study region. Both natural and man-made activities are said to have contributed to shoreline modification in this study. Furthermore, it indicates that the rate of erosion is comparatively higher in the coastal areas where sand mining occurs than in other areas. According to the report, erosion problems in these areas may get much worse as a result of unsustainable sand mining activities. The study could be beneficial for disaster management projects and also for future planning and development plans.