Coastal vulnerability: A case study along Digha Sankarpur coast, West Bengal, India

Abstract

This study attempts to study the socio-economic impacts of coastal hazards on the vulnerable zone populace, identify the probable factors that are responsible for inducing worst impact and to suggest methods to manage the impact of coastal hazards to reduce damage on the coastline. Analysis has been carried out by preparing a map of the vulnerable coastal stretch and their related threat on coastal habitation. Prediction has been attempted to indicate points of coastal disaster on the study site. Protection option has an effective outcome with consequent degradation and loss of the beach amenity. Within a framework of increasing population pressure and Greenhouse driven climate change, the potential for conflict between development and the coastal processes will surely increase.