Pudukuppam Coastline Vanishes Amidst Coastal Erosion Crisis

Hundreds of families in Pudukuppam, a coastal hamlet, have been battling severe coastal erosion for the past two weeks. The sea's aggressive advance has damaged seawalls and structures, bringing seawater perilously close to habitations. Fishermen are struggling to operate, with many boats grounded due to the rough conditions and altered coastline. The situation has created constant fear of displacement among residents.

Residents point to the construction of groynes in the neighboring Thazhanguda coastal hamlet as the primary cause of the escalating erosion. They argue that this development has disrupted natural sand drift, leading to the current crisis. Coastal experts concur that such hard structures can increase vulnerability and reduce natural resilience, exacerbating the impact of rough seas.

Experts advocate for soft measures like sand bypassing over hard structures. Proposals for a sea wall and fish landing facility in Pudukuppam have been revived, but environmental concerns linger, as similar projects have previously been rejected due to potential ecological damage. Reports indicate that Pudukuppam is an erosion hotspot, necessitating urgent and sustainable mitigation strategies.