Microlevel Mapping of Coastal Geomorphology and Coastal Resources of Rameswaram Island, India: A Remote Sensing and GIS Perspective

Abstract

Coastal areas are facing serious threats from both manmade and natural disturbances; coastal erosion, sea-level variation, and cyclones are the major factors that alter the coastal topography and coastal resources of the island ecosystems. The impact of natural disturbances can be reduced by protecting the coast by green shielding. The present study was carried out to understand the coastal geomorphology and coastal resources of Rameswaram Island, India, using Indian Remote Sensing Satellite (IRS)-P6 Linear Imaging Self-Scanning (LISS)-III sensor imagery (2005) and to find suitable areas for bioshielding of this island using mangroves and casuarinas. The study found satellite imageries, along with field survey, will be useful tools for delineating the coastal geomorphology and coastal resources and finding suitable areas for bioshielding.