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Indian Journal of Geo-Marine Sciences (IJMS) >
IJMS Vol.39 [2010] >
IJMS Vol.39(4) [December 2010] >
| Title: | Coastal geomorphology and tsunami hazard scenario along the Kachchh coast, western India |
| Authors: | Shukla, S B
Prizomwala, S P
Ukey, V
Bhatt, Nilesh
Chamyal, L S |
| Keywords: | Coastal geomorphology
Tsunami
Natural hazards
Gulf of Kachchh |
| Issue Date: | Dec-2010 |
| Publisher: | NISCAIR-CSIR, India |
| Abstract: | Geomorphology and coastal configuration plays a vital role during tsunami
events as different coastal geomorphic units respond differently to a tsunami
hazard. The study of ability of different coastal landforms to respond tsunami
surge is very much important for vulnerability mapping of coast. The Kachchh
coast that runs for about more than 450 km has conspicuous presence of both, wave
as well as tide influenced landforms. Following the classification suggested by
Ramasamy et al.1, the geomorphic features for possible
response of tsunami event can be classified as facilitators, conveyors,
accommodators, absorbers and barriers. Depending upon its action as
facilitator, conveyor or accommodator, the geomorphic units like estuary,
creek, mudflats and backwater increase the possibility of tsunami run ups and
inundation. The beach ridges and wide sandy beaches on the other hand absorb
tsunami energy and act as barriers. In view of these six distinct segments have
been identified along the Kachchh coast and are described for their possible
response to tsunami event. Accordingly, the segment between Jakhau and Suthari
has barrier kind of geomorphic set up with presence of backswamps that has
higher preservation potential of tsunami deposits. The segment from Suthari to
Kanthada has steep beaches and dune ridges that can reduce the intensity of
tsunami hazard. The Kanthada - Rawal Pir segment has Rukmavati River mouth that
can convey the effect of tsunami to a considerable landward area whereas, the
Rawal Pir - Mundra and Mundra – Tuna segments have dominant accommodator type
of geomorphic assemblage that also has a higher preservation potential for
tsunami sediments. The segment between Tuna and Kandla has relatively much
wider mudflats and mangrove swamps which accommodates as well as reduces
tsunami energy. However, the configuration suggests much intensified tsunami
surge that can devastate the large scale developments in this part. Response
mechanism of the coastal geomorphic assemblages will not only help in the
disaster risk reduction activities but will also be useful in better
understanding of palaeo and historical tsunamis. |
| Page(s): | 549-556 |
| CC License: |  CC Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 2.5 India |
| ISSN: | 0975-1033 (Online); 0379-5136 (Print) |
| Source: | IJMS Vol.39(4) [December 2010]
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