Facing the Sea : The Vanishing Shores of South Kerala

Abstract

Every beach has a story to tell. From the footprints left behind on its shores to the memories, we make there, it is a place where tales of love, friendship, happiness, comfort, and misery intertwine. It is a universal space that symbolizes relaxation, adventure, and fun. A place where people come to escape reality, make unforgettable memories, and share moments with their loved ones. Sadly, as coastal erosion continues to affect coastlines worldwide, these stories and along with lives in them may one day come to an end. As the gradual erosion of coastlines causes the beaches to slowly disappear, the existence of this paradise is severely threatened.Coastal erosion is the natural process of washing away land by the sea caused by tides and waves. And while it is part of a seasonal activity that causes beaches to accrete, recede, and recover over time, the truth of the matter at hand is that the beaches are slowly disappearing and have stopped coming back like they used to. As the sea rises and eats away the shores, despite the negative impact of coastal erosion, some people take nature for granted as it is also human nature to overlook the value of things until they are truly gone. With the effects of rising sea levels and the construction of sea structures protruding into the sea, the coastlines are severely affected only with a little hope left for a full recovery. As a result, several coastlines and beaches are slowly disappearing. The effects of coastal erosion can be devastating, as it leads to the loss of beaches, wetlands, and other crucial habitats that are home to a wide range of marine species. The effects of coastal erosion are also felt by humans, as it can cause damage to coastal infrastructure, homes, and businesses. Coastal erosion can also lead to significant economic losses for communities that rely on tourism. Therefore, the consequences of coastal erosion are severe, and raising awareness about this issue is essential to protect our coastal communities. This report dives into the importance of preserving our coastlines and the stories they hold. We explore the impact of coastal erosion and how it has affected the livelihood of a community. The goal is to raise awareness about coastal erosion and inspire individuals, communities, and policymakers to take action to preserve our coastlines for future generations.