Beach Topography and Morphodynamics along the Southern Coastal Tamil of India by Using Beach Profile Analysis
Beaches are highly dynamic in nature. Several tons of sediment are redistributing each day due to the action of waves, winds and currents. The profiles of beaches, cliffs and other coastal landforms are often studied and analyzed in the coastal areas. The most common method for measuring beach topog...
Saved in:
| Published in: | Морской гидрофизический журнал |
|---|---|
| Date: | 2013 |
| Main Authors: | , |
| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
Морський гідрофізичний інститут НАН України
2013
|
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | https://nasplib.isofts.kiev.ua/handle/123456789/56613 |
| Tags: |
Add Tag
No Tags, Be the first to tag this record!
|
| Journal Title: | Digital Library of Periodicals of National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine |
| Cite this: | Beach Topography and Morphodynamics along the Southern Coastal Tamil of India by Using Beach Profile Analysis / P.S. Mujabar, N. Chandrasekar // Морской гидрофизический журнал. — 2013. — № 3. — С. 35-61. — Бібліогр.: 55 назв. — англ. |
Institution
Digital Library of Periodicals of National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine| _version_ | 1859743833892323328 |
|---|---|
| author | Mujabar, P.S. Chandrasekar, N. |
| author_facet | Mujabar, P.S. Chandrasekar, N. |
| citation_txt | Beach Topography and Morphodynamics along the Southern Coastal Tamil of India by Using Beach Profile Analysis / P.S. Mujabar, N. Chandrasekar // Морской гидрофизический журнал. — 2013. — № 3. — С. 35-61. — Бібліогр.: 55 назв. — англ. |
| collection | DSpace DC |
| container_title | Морской гидрофизический журнал |
| description | Beaches are highly dynamic in nature. Several tons of sediment are redistributing each day due to the action of waves, winds and currents. The profiles of beaches, cliffs and other coastal landforms are often studied and analyzed in the coastal areas. The most common method for measuring beach topographic change is the beach profile. This manuscript deals with the topographical and morphological analysis of beaches along the southern coastal Tamil Nadu of India by using beach profile surveys. The beaches are surveyed by using a surveyor’s level. The obtained data from the surveys are processed by using sophisticated software tools such as “Beach Morphology Analysis Package” (BMAP), an integrated set of computer analysis routines compiled by Coastal Engineering Research Center (CERC) at the U.S. Army Engineer Waterways Experiment Station. The temporal and spatial representations of beach profiles have been delivered and the morphological parameters such as beach width and slope have been analyzed.
The volumetric analysis of beach sediments and their annual and seasonal variations have been performed. Both cyclic (seasonal) and annual changes in the beach topography have been observed. The morphodynamic and volumetric analysis of beach profiles indicates that the beaches of Kanyakumari, Navaladi, and Ovari have experienced more annual loss of sediments and they poses severe beach erosion. The beaches of Tuticorin-south, Periathalai, Kayalpattinam and Tiruchendur have experienced more accretion. The dynamic changes in the beach topography may also interact and modify the other coastal landforms. The wave climate along the coast has also influenced the sediment dynamics of beaches. The present study implies that proper beach filling and nourishment projects should be made along the study area to save it from coastal erosion.
Аналіз профілів пляжів є найпоширенішим методом вивчення їх динаміки. Проведено топографічний та морфологічний аналіз пляжів уздовж південного берега Тамілнад(Індія) з використанням методів зйомки їх профілів. Отримані дані обробляються із застосуванням сучасних програмних засобів, зокрема “Beach Morphology Analysis Package” («Пакет для аналізу морфології пляжу»). Представлено динаміку просторових профілів пляжів, проаналізовано їх морфологічні параметри, такі, як ширина та уклон. Проведено морфологічний і гранулометричний аналіз наносів на пляжах та їх річної та сезонної динаміки. В результаті на пляжах Каньякумарі, Наваладі та Оварі виявлене значне зменшення наносів, тоді як на пляжах південного Тутікоріна, Періаталай, Кайалпатінам і Тіручендур зафіксовані більші об'єми наносів. За результатами досліджень рекомендується здійснювати контроль за природним підживленням пляжів для зберігання їх від берегової ерозії.
Анализ профилей пляжей является наиболее распространенным методом изучения их динамики. Проведен топографический и морфологический анализ пляжей вдоль южного берега Тамилнад (Индия) с использованием методов съемки их профилей. Полученные данные обрабатываются с применением современных программных средств, в частности “Beach Morphology Analysis Package” («Пакет для анализа морфологии пляжа»). Представлена динамика пространственных профилей пляжей, проанализированы их морфологические параметры, такие, как ширина и уклон. Проведен морфологический и гранулометрический анализ наносов на пляжах и их годовой и сезонной динамики. В результате на пляжах Каньякумари, Навалади и Овари обнаружено значительное уменьшение наносов, в то время как на пляжах южного Тутикорина, Периаталай, Кайалпатинам и Тиручендур зафиксированы бόльшие объемы наносов. По результатам исследований рекомендуется осуществлять контроль за естественной подпиткой пляжей для сохранения их от береговой эрозии.
|
| first_indexed | 2025-12-01T20:18:15Z |
| format | Article |
| fulltext |
ISSN 0233-7584. Мор. гидрофиз. журн., 2013, № 3 35
© P.S. Mujabar and N. Chandrasekar, 2013
Экспериментальные и экспедиционные
исследования
UDC 551.46(267)
P.S. Mujabar * and N. Chandrasekar **
Beach Topography and Morphodynamics along the Southern
Coastal Tamil of India by Using Beach Profile Analysis
Beaches are highly dynamic in nature. Several tons of sediment are redistributing each day due
to the action of waves, winds and currents. The profiles of beaches, cliffs and other coastal landforms
are often studied and analyzed in the coastal areas. The most common method for measuring beach
topographic change is the beach profile. This manuscript deals with the topographical and morpholog-
ical analysis of beaches along the southern coastal Tamil Nadu of India by using beach profile sur-
veys. The beaches are surveyed by using a surveyor’s level. The obtained data from the surveys are
processed by using sophisticated software tools such as “Beach Morphology Analysis Package”
(BMAP), an integrated set of computer analysis routines compiled by Coastal Engineering Research
Center (CERC) at the U.S. Army Engineer Waterways Experiment Station. The temporal and spatial
representations of beach profiles have been delivered and the morphological parameters such as beach
width and slope have been analyzed.
The volumetric analysis of beach sediments and their annual and seasonal variations have been
performed. Both cyclic (seasonal) and annual changes in the beach topography have been observed.
The morphodynamic and volumetric analysis of beach profiles indicates that the beaches of Kanya-
kumari, Navaladi, and Ovari have experienced more annual loss of sediments and they poses severe
beach erosion. The beaches of Tuticorin-south, Periathalai, Kayalpattinam and Tiruchendur have
experienced more accretion. The dynamic changes in the beach topography may also interact and
modify the other coastal landforms. The wave climate along the coast has also influenced the sedi-
ment dynamics of beaches. The present study implies that proper beach filling and nourishment
projects should be made along the study area to save it from coastal erosion.
Keywords: geomorphology, coastal erosion, sediment transport, shoreline change.
1. Introduction
Beaches are one of the important coastal landform and most studied feature of
coastal morphology. Beach topography is a result of complex interaction between
natural coastal processes and anthropogenic activities. The topographical beach
profile gives the surface shape, trend, slope and volume of sediments. These cross
sections through coastlines can give a good idea about the changes that can occur
over time at one point on the coast, either in the shape of a beach or a cliff, or in its
size and volume. Guillen et al. (1999) and Cooper et al. (2000) reported that beach
profiles are an important tool for elucidating long-term trends, such as erosion and
accretion, and for predicting the future evolution of coastal landforms. The profile
is useful for environmental management and planning authorities who need such
information when planning new development, but rarely have the resources them-
selves to collect the data (Cambers and Ghina, 2005).
Coastal morphology is the result of combined action of hydrodynamic, geolog-
ic and climatologic processes. The beach morphology can be regarded as a sensi-
ISSN 0233-7584. Мор. гидрофиз. журн., 2013, № 3 36
tive indicator for the ongoing coastal dynamic processes of a particular coastline
(Wright and Short, 1983; Hardisty, 1994). By monitoring the spatial and morpho-
logical changes of a beach over time, a good estimate of the rate and direction of
coastal changes can be obtained (Dean, 1983; Brunsden, 2001). Krause (2004)
states that the beach morphology of coasts undergoes perpetual and rapid changes.
Generally, the influencing natural forces can be subdivided into long-term
processes, which shape the coastal morphology on large spatial scales in the order
of kilometers or more and short-term processes. More recently, anthropogenic ef-
fects may also influence substantially the shape of the coastline.
The present study intends to analyze the topographical and morphological
changes along the southern coastal Tamil Nadu of India. Hydrodynamic and mor-
phologic changes have been frequently observed after the Dec.-2004 tsunami along
this area (Mujabar et al., 2006). The beach profile survey has been performed by
using a surveyor’s level or transit as represented by Parson (1997). The beach pro-
files obtained from the surveys are processed by using advanced computing tools
like “Beach Morphology Analysis Package” (BMAP) and “THE BEACH” (Chan-
drasekar and Sheik Mujabar, 2010). The temporal and spatial representations of
beach profiles have been delivered and the morphological parameters such as
cross-shore beach width and slope have been estimated and analyzed. The volume-
tric analysis of beach sediments and their annual and seasonal variations have been
performed. The shoreline change, erosion and accretion made along the beaches
have also been predicted and discussed.
2. Geographical Setting
The study area is located along the southern coast of Tamil Nadu state, India
(Fig. 1). The southwest coastline borders the Bay of Bengal whereas Indian Ocean
borders the south coastline. The study area extends over a distance of 150 km.
Moderate to high wave energy condition prevails along the study area, and the
Ovari coastal zone is an enriched zone of placer mineral deposits (Angusamy and
Rajamanickam, 2000). The wave energy is high, and during the rainy season peb-
bles have been deposited in some beaches. Waves approach the coast in the SE,
NW directions, with wave periods varying from 5 sec to 15 sec. The drainage pat-
tern along the study area is controlled by the Thambraparani River and minor rivers
such as Karamaniar, Nambiyar and Hanuman Nadhi. Sea cliffs are along the Ka-
nyakumari coast, which project towards the Indian Ocean forming promontory.
Most of the beaches are sandy whereas Kanyakumari and Idinthakarai beaches are
rocky in nature.
The study area includes mining sites, saltpans, estuaries, aquatic ponds, fishing
harbor and development projects. Most of the beaches are habitually devoid of
dunes. The coast along Kanyakumari has been affected by severe coastal erosion.
Beach nourishment structures have been installed in the recent past along the coast
of Kanyakumari and Koottapuli. Seawall and groins have been constructed along
the coasts. Breakwater was constructed long ago in the fishing harbor (Chinna
Muttom beach), just north of Kanyakumari. An ancient fort is at Vattakottai nearer
ISSN 0233-7584. Мор. гидрофиз. журн., 2013, № 3 37
to Kanyakumari which extends further beyond the surf zone. Vattakottai and Ka-
nyakumari beaches are tourism centers of Tamil Nadu state. Sand mining is active-
ly pursued along the coast of Idinthakarai, Navaladi, Ovari and Periathalai.
F i g. 1. Study Area Map
The coastal landforms along the study area have been greatly influenced by
natural coastal processes and anthropogenic activities (Mujabar and Chandrasekar,
2011a, b). Mujabar et al. (2007) analyzed the morphological parameters of beaches
along the south Tamil Nadu coast after the tsunami. They state that almost all the
beaches were eroded by the tsunami waves. The mid tide and low tide zones of the
beaches were more eroded than the berm and high tide zone. The beach width and
the total cross-sectional area of all the beaches were reduced. The mean beach
slope and the trend of the beaches were also affected by the tsunami. They also
predicted that beach slope and width were also modified due to the change in the
beach sediment volume and redistribution within the beach units. The coastal geol-
ogy and geomorphology along the southern coastal Tamil Nadu play a vital role in
modifying the shorelines. Mujabar and Chandrasekar (2011c) state that various
coastal landform features such as headland and bays, beaches, mud flats, estuaries,
sand dunes along the study area have been involved in the shoreline changes. They
also state that the coasts with sand mining, have high longshore sediment transport
rate and it may lead to severe erosion and accretion along the coast.
3. Methodology
The term “beach profile” refers to the cross-sectional trace of a beach perpen-
dicular to the high tide shoreline and extends from the backshore cliff or dune to
the inner continental shelf or depth of closure, a location where waves and currents
ISSN 0233-7584. Мор. гидрофиз. журн., 2013, № 3 38
do not transport sediment to and from the beach. Measuring beach profiles is an
ideal activity for the analysis of beach morphology, landform dynamics, develop-
mental projects and environmental assessments etc.
The beach profile survey is the process of making simple datasets with succes-
sive elevation and distance from a reference starting point towards the off-shore.
Several techniques are available to perform the beach profile survey. Beach profile
survey can be easily performed using stack and horizon method of La Fond and
Rao (1954). Emery (1961) described a simple and rapid method to measure the
beach profiles, henceforth called the Emery-method, which has been used in nu-
merous studies throughout the world, such as Mexico, USA, Ecuador and Australia
(Short and Trembanis, 2004). The first modern studies of profiles were motivated
to understand its shape and variability in support of amphibious operations during
World War II, when personnel and supply boats had to cross beach profile from
off-shore to the dry beach (Bascom, 1980).
In the present work, the beaches along the southern coastal Tamil Nadu have
been surveyed by using level and staff method (Fig. 2) as represented by Parson
(1997). This method is very simple, accurate and easy to perform. Even with the
latest development of survey techniques, the simple survey methods using Emery-
poles or surveyor’s level are still widely used by many researchers. The cost for
these simple conventional survey methods is much less when compared with other
surveys. When working in tropical developing countries, many methods which are
based on high-technology equipment are not easily accessible. Due to lack of fund-
ing or access to such type of equipment, the climatic conditions (e.g., high tem-
perature and air humidity) and scarce resources for the maintenance may constitute
limiting factors on the long-lasting employment of respective devices for beach
profile monitoring purposes (Krause, 2004).
F i g. 2. Beach Profile Survey Using Surveyor’s Level
ISSN 0233-7584. Мор. гидрофиз. журн., 2013, № 3 39
Ramanujam et al. (1996) used surveyor’s level (transit) and staff to measure
the beach profiles at more than 48 profile sites along the coast from Tiruchendur to
Vaippar. Chauhan (1997) used rod and transit method to measure the morphology
of beaches along the coast of Machilipatnam, India. Vijayam et al. (1960) used the
stack and horizon method to analyze the beach profiles of Vizhapatiinam coast.
Vasudav et al. (1986) also used the same method to measure the beach profiles for
analysing the seasonal changes of beaches along the coast of Vizhapatinum, India.
Jayakumar et al. (2004) used the surveyor’s level method to measure the profiles
for analyzing the beach dynamics along the coast of Goa, India. Rajamanickam
(2006) also used surveyor’s level method to measure the profiles for beach placer
study along the south Tamil Nadu coast. Chandrasekar et al. (2006) used sur-
veyor’s level method to analyze the morphology of beaches along the south Tamil
Nadu coast. They used the beach profile data to classify and analyze the Dec.-2004
tsunami hazard along the Kanyakumari coast.
The coastal geomorphologies of the selected beaches are noted and the survey
has been performed on the beaches for a period of two years (from Mar.-2006 to
Feb.-2008). A straight narrow transect of length about 500 m was selected for the
profile leveling. Leveling was started from a reference point on the berm area of
beaches. The elevation of the reference point was obtained by leveling from a
benchmark whose elevation from the mean sea level was known. The profile leve-
ling was performed perpendicular to the direction of the coast, with an interval
every 5m from the reference point to a point seaward of the low tide zone of the
beach. A compass and a GPS receiver have also been used to spot the exact loca-
tion for repeated measurements of the beach profile survey. The obtained beach
profile survey data has been processed and is used to trace the profile of beaches.
The data has also been used to estimate the beach width, slope and sediment vo-
lume of beaches.
In the present study, littoral environmental observations (LEO) were also car-
ried out at the beaches along the study area. The breaking wave height (Hb) is
measured by basic scientific method illustrated by Bascom (1980) in his seminal
work on wave research. The wave breaking angle (αb) with respect to the coastline
is measured by using a surveyor’s magnetic compass and the breaker depth (db) is
also calculated by using a graduated pole.
4. Results and Discussions
4.1. Spatial and Temporal Representation of Profiles
Beach topographic analysis with short-term and long-term change in different
spatial and temporal scales in the coastal dynamic environment is crucial for sus-
tainable coastal management. A study of number of profiles from different points
can produce information about the transportation of sediment along a coast, or how
one area differs from another. The numerical profile data can be analyzed statisti-
cally or it can be plotted as a graph to give a physical representation of the shape of
a coastline. Ying Li et al. (2005) states that the beach profiles have been observed
to change over a range of spatial and temporal scales; however techniques for
quantifying this variability have not been fully established.
ISSN 0233-7584. Мор. гидрофиз. журн., 2013, № 3 40
-1
0
1
2
3
4
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70
E
le
va
ti
o
n
(
m
)
Distance From Ref. Point (m)
KANYAKUMARI BEACH
Mar-06 Apr-06 May-06 Jun-06 Jul-06 Aug-06
Sep-06 Oct-06 Nov-06 Dec-06 Jan-07 Feb-07
F i g. 3. Profiles of Kanyakumari Beach
Beach erosion may be a short-term process (order from hours to seasons) that
reflects adjustment to wave energy changes, or a longer-term one (order of years)
that reflects an increasingly deficient beach sediment budget and shoreline
changes. Clinton et al. (1975) also state that the seasonal changes in beach profiles
constitute an important aspect of the variability of the coastal environment. The
spatial and temporal representations of profiles obtained from all the 12 beaches
along the study area have been drawn and the profile of Kanyakumari beach is
shown in Fig. 3. The variations of beach profile on both annual and seasonal envi-
ronment of the coasts have been analyzed. The beach profiles collected from the
beaches have been used to study the beach dynamics, coastal erosion and shoreline
change in both spatial and temporal scales. Mujabar and Chandrasekar (2011c) also
state that coastal erosion and the dynamics of landforms along the study area are
highly influenced by the various parameters such as coastal processes, interruption
of sediment supply, geomorphology, tectonic activities, climate patterns and anth-
ropogenic activities.
4.2. Dynamics of Beach Topography
Beaches are loose accumulations of sand, gravel, or a mixture of the two that
bound an estimated 30% of the world’s coasts (Bird, 1996). Because they consist
of more or less loosely packed non-cohesive sediments, beaches act as buffers that
absorb, reflect, and dissipate energy delivered to the shore by waves. By doing so,
they shelter areas behind the beach, especially during storms, from wave attack and
flooding (Edward, 2005). The present study indicates that the topographical and
morphological changes of beach profiles are mainly oriented with coastal geology,
shore configuration and seasonal oscillation prevailing along the study area. The
topographical representation of different beaches reveals that the profiles are higher
during March, 2008 and the profile rises further from March to May. During April
or May, the profile of almost all beaches attains maximum level.
ISSN 0233-7584. Мор. гидрофиз. журн., 2013, № 3 41
-1
0
1
2
3
4
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70
E
le
va
ti
o
n
(
m
)
Distance From Ref. Point (m)
KANYAKUMARI BEACH
Mar-06 Apr-06 May-06
F i g. 4. Pre-Monsoon Profiles of Kanyakumari Beach
-1
0
1
2
3
4
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70
E
le
va
ti
o
n
(
m
)
Distance From Ref. Point (m)
KANYAKUMARI BEACH
Jun-06 Jul-06 Aug-06 Sep-06 Oct-06
F i g. 5. Beach Profiles during Monsoon in Kanyakumari
The low energy littoral currents and waves prevail along the area during the
summer deposit sediment on the beach berm and dune, thereby raising the beach
profile. From the month of June, the profiles start to lower due to the increase in
wave energy due to the SW monsoon. The lowering of profiles still continues up to
the month of September (NE monsoon period, winter). Many researches (Clinton et
al., 1975; Basterretxea et al., 2004) pertain the seasonal migration of the sand, with
sediment transport towards the beach in summer, resulting steep beach face and a
high berm at the end of summer. On sandy beaches short-term changes involving
erosion are commonly a part of a so called morphodynamic cycle of adjustment of
the beach profile to seasonal or non-seasonal changes in wave energy (Short,
ISSN 0233-7584. Мор. гидрофиз. журн., 2013, № 3 42
1999). The short-term seasonal changes commonly correspond to the classic winter
profile flattened by storms and the summer profile that accretes under fair weather
conditions.
The profile of Kanyakumari beach during the different periods such as pre-
monsoon, monsoon (SW & NE) and the post-monsoon are shown in Figs. 4, 5 and
6. The profiles in almost all the beaches during the months of March, April and
May (pre-monsoon and summer) imply that the beaches have experienced accre-
tion. The lift in profile level is more along the backshore due to more deposition of
sediments. During this period well developed berms have been observed in the
high tide region of beaches. It is also noticed that the profile along the foreshore
experiences a lowering in most beaches which indicates the landward movement of
sediments; however accretion have been noticed along the foreshore of Navaladi,
Ovari and Periathalai beaches. More sediment deposits have been noticed in Ovari.
Chandrasekar et al. (2001) insist that the change on foreshore of these beaches is
closely linked to the formation and movement of garnet concentration in the near
shore.
0
1
2
3
4
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70
E
le
va
ti
o
n
(
m
)
Distance From Ref. Point (m)
KANYAKUMARI BEACH
Nov-06 Dec-06 Jan-07 Feb-07
F i g. 6. Post-Monsoon Profiles of Kanyakumari Beach
The SW monsoon mostly starts from the month of June along the study area.
The increased wave condition during the monsoon lowers the level of profile and
causes beach erosion along the coast. More amounts of sediments have been re-
moved from the berm and high tide region of beaches. The change in beach profile
indicates the movement of sediments from the back and near-shore towards the off-
shore. The profile also specifies the formation of off-shore sand bars along the
near-shore and off-shore. Crest and troughs have been observed along the profile of
beaches. The high waves during the monsoon break near the shoreline when the
low waves result in an increased run-up on the beach foreshore (Battjes, 1974). The
changes in the wave climate transport the sediments towards the sea. Reddy et al.
(2000) imply that the sediments eroded from the beak shore are deposited to form
longshore sand bars. The low wave climate during the NE monsoon leads to some
ISSN 0233-7584. Мор. гидрофиз. журн., 2013, № 3 43
accretion of sediments over the SW profile of beaches. After the NE monsoon, the
beaches slowly retain the initial state and the beach experiences net loss or gain of
sediment.
4.3. Beach Morphology and Morphodynamics
4.3.1. Beach Morphology
(a) Beach Width. The beach width is defined as the horizontal dimension of
beach measured at right angles to the shoreline from the line of extreme low water
inland to the landward limit of a beach. It is also defined as the distance between
dune crest and shoreline position at high tide. It is an important parameter measur-
ing the “health” of a beach. Understanding how beach width changes over varying
timescales is vital for future shoreline management planning, for example, planning
beach nourishment or seawall construction, defining hazard setbacks, identifying
“hot spots” (locations of enhanced erosion) and the threat they pose to human
structures and/or recreational activities. The cross-sectional beach width during
each month of all the beaches have been calculated from the beach profile survey
data. The seasonal and annual variation in the beach widths of all beaches are given
in Tables 1 and 2. The study implies that the width of different beaches along the
study area undergoes dynamic changes in both spatial and temporal scales which
have been controlled by both natural and human induced activities particularly
beach sand mining.
T a b l e 1
Seasonal Changes in Beach Width
Beach Name
Beach Width (m)
During Mar.-2006 to Feb.-2007 During Mar.-2007 to Feb.-2008
Pre-
Monsoon
During
Monsoon
Post-
Monsoon
Pre-
Monsoon
During
Monsoon
Post-
Monsoon
Kanyakumari 57.3 54.2 50.5 51.9 48.8 50.5
Koottapuli 58.5 53.0 58.0 54.2 56.5 58.0
Perumanal 89.0 86.5 81.6 81.6 81.6 81.6
Idinthakarai 59.9 56.8 57.4 60.1 53.9 57.4
Navaladi 72.7 69.3 67.9 69.4 66.2 67.9
Ovari 56.4 45.2 52.0 48.8 46.1 52.0
Periathalai 131 130 133 137 131 133
Manappad 77.6 75.9 75.6 76.5 74.6 75.6
Tiruchendur 57.1 52.1 54.5 55.8 51.9 54.5
Kayalpattinam 96.6 97.0 99.4 101 93.4 99.4
Tuticorin-south 108 104 112 114 108 112
Tuticorin-north 48.3 48.2 48.7 44.5 43.4 48.7
ISSN 0233-7584. Мор. гидрофиз. журн., 2013, № 3 44
T a b l e 2
Annual Changes in Beach Width
The profiles are characterized by a large seasonal and annual variation in the
incident wave height and beaches exhibit a distinct change in beach morphology.
However the morphological changes are better explained by seasonal reversals in
the littoral drift direction and by the variations in the incident wave energy condi-
tions. Masselink and Pattiaratchi (2001) state that the seasonal change in beach
morphology is traditionally ascribed to a variation in the incident wave energy lev-
el with calm conditions in summer resulting in wide beaches with pronounced sub-
aerial berms and energetic conditions in winter causing narrow beaches with near-
shore bar morphology. It is observed that the beaches of Kanyakumari, Koottapuli,
Idinthakarai, Navaladi and Ovari have experienced a reduction of beach width dur-
ing the study period while the other beaches have experienced an increase in beach
width. This indicates the spatial variation of erosion and accretion along the differ-
ent beaches.
During the period of March to May the widths of beaches are in increasing
trend, and they reach a maximum value in April–May. The berm area is also larger
during these months. After this period, the increase in wave climate due to the SW
monsoon lowers the profile and reduces the beach width considerably. In majority
of the beaches the beach width attains minimum values during August or Septem-
ber. These seasonal oscillations of beach morphology have been extensively stu-
died by many researchers (Chandramohan et al., 1993; Chauhan, 1997; Kasinatha
Pandian and Dharanirajan, 2007; Clinton et al., 1975). From September onwards,
the beach width slightly increases from its minimum level. It is due to comparative-
ly low wave energy and reversal trend in the direction of sediment transport pre-
vailing during the NE monsoon. Chauhan (1997) states that the littoral currents
were moderate to strong during the SW monsoon, variable during the NE monsoon,
and weak during non-monsoon period. The direction of these currents also varies
during the SW and the NE monsoons. Beach eroded during the SW monsoon, but
despite the prevalent moderate-high wave regime, and moderate-strong littoral cur-
Beach Name
Beach Width (m) Annual Change in Beach Width (m)
Mar.-06 Mar.-07 Feb.-08 2006-07 2007-08 Net
Kanyakumari 56.9 55.3 52.8 -1.60 -2.50 -4.1
Koottapuli 53.2 51.7 51.0 -1.50 -0.70 -2.2
Perumanal 86.6 91.1 88.7 4.50 -2.40 2.1
Idinthakarai 57.4 56.2 55.5 -1.20 -0.70 -1.9
Navaladi 71.9 69.5 67.5 -2.40 -2.00 -4.4
Ovari 58.7 56.4 52.9 -2.30 -3.50 -5.8
Periathalai 128 130.5 132 2.50 1.50 4.0
Manappad 76.7 78.8 78.5 2.10 -0.30 1.8
Tiruchendur 54.6 56.9 59.6 2.30 2.70 5.0
Kayalpattinam 98.5 99.4 100 0.90 0.60 1.5
Tuticorin-south 109 113 118 4.00 5.00 9.0
Tuticorin-north 47.9 48.5 49.3 0.60 0.80 1.4
ISSN 0233-7584. Мор. гидрофиз. журн., 2013, № 3 45
rents, the beach profiles of the NE monsoon had accretion over the profiles of the
SW monsoon. Chauhan (1997) also says that the beach profiles of the NE monsoon
had accretion over the profiles of the SW monsoon. During the NE monsoon the
influence of littoral currents and waves is comparatively lower than that of the SW
monsoon and the widths of most beaches are in increasing trend. But severe storms
may also attack the shoreline during this period and the storm-generated waves that
cut away the berm cause an off-shore sediment motion and bar formation.
During December–March the beach profiles are gradually raised and attain
maximum level during April or May. The net change in beach widths along differ-
ent beaches has been represented in Fig. 7. The study indicates that the beaches of
Kanyakumari, Koottapuli, Idinthakarai, Navaladi and Ovari are eroding considera-
bly and the beaches of Periathalai, Manappad, Kayalpattinam, Tiruchendur and
Tuticorin-south have been present in accretion trend. It has been noted that the
width of beaches along the intensive mining sites have been considerably de-
creased (Table 2) which leads to more erosion along the coast.
F i g. 7. Net Change in Beach Width
(b) Beach Slope. The beach slopes of all beaches have been measured from
the beach profile data. The seasonal and annual variations in beach slopes are given
in Tables 3 and 4. Zinn (1969) states that the slope of a beach is the angle formed
by the intersection of plane of the beach with the horizontal plane of the sea-water
surface. He also states that beach slope influences the width of beaches. During
non-monsoon the slopes are larger almost in all beaches due to the accumulation of
sediment along the berm and high tide zones. The reduction of beach slope during
monsoon indicates the removal of sediment from the berm and dune to the off-
shore. After the monsoon the beach slope increases again. No significant annual
changes in beach slopes have been noticed.
ISSN 0233-7584. Мор. гидрофиз. журн., 2013, № 3 46
T a b l e 3
Seasonal Changes in Beach Slope
T a b l e 4
Annual Changes in Beach Slope
4.3.2. Morphodynamics and Volumetric Analysis
The morphodynamics of beach refers to the interaction and adjustment of seaf-
loor topography and fluid hydrodynamic processes. The hydrodynamic processes
including those of waves, tides and wind-induced currents respond instantaneously
and lead to the morphological change and redistribution of sediment. The seafloor
morphologies and sequences of change of dynamics are involved in modifying
cross-shore and longshore sediment transport.
Beach Name
Beach Slope (degree)
During Mar.-2006 to Feb.-2007 During Mar.-2007 to Feb.-2008
Pre-
Monsoon
During
Monsoon
Post-
Monsoon
Pre-
Monsoon
During
Monsoon
Post-
Monsoon
Kanyakumari 4.07 3.47 3.77 4.02 4.20 3.86
Koottapuli 5.63 4.69 4.82 5.18 4.25 4.35
Perumanal 3.73 2.83 3.00 3.69 3.25 3.20
Idinthakarai 4.35 4.31 4.51 4.47 4.25 4.39
Navaladi 3.10 2.85 2.88 3.35 3.31 3.26
Ovari 3.45 3.41 3.53 3.77 3.48 3.44
Periathalai 2.27 2.26 2.07 2.43 2.29 2.34
Manappad 3.59 3.42 3.43 3.57 3.37 3.31
Tiruchendur 3.47 3.48 3.57 3.97 4.18 3.87
Kayalpattinam 2.71 2.34 2.47 2.60 2.40 2.58
Tuticorin-south 2.72 2.31 2.47 2.30 2.18 2.27
Tuticorin-north 3.27 3.37 3.30 3.61 3.85 3.61
Beach Name Beach Slope (degree) Annual Changes in Beach Slope
(degree)
Mar.-06 Mar.-07 Feb.-08
2006-07 2007-08 Net
Kanyakumari 3.69 3.66 3.70 -0.03 0.04 0.01
Koottapuli 4.75 4.57 4.91 -0.18 0.34 0.16
Perumanal 3.13 3.49 3.24 0.36 -0.25 0.11
Idinthakarai 4.34 4.56 4.58 0.22 0.02 0.24
Navaladi 3.04 3.26 3.26 0.22 0.00 0.22
Ovari 3.42 3.45 3.42 0.03 -0.03 0.00
Periathalai 2.12 2.26 2.38 0.14 0.12 0.26
Manappad 3.47 3.62 3.45 0.15 -0.17 -0.02
Tiruchendur 3.38 3.77 4.08 0.39 0.31 0.70
Kayalpattinam 2.63 2.63 2.65 0.00 0.02 0.02
Tuticorin-south 2.56 2.23 2.29 -0.33 0.06 -0.27
Tuticorin-north 3.06 3.18 3.59 0.12 0.41 0.53
ISSN 0233-7584. Мор. гидрофиз. журн., 2013, № 3 47
As sediment takes a finite time to move, there is a lag in the morphological re-
sponse to hydrodynamic forcing. Sediment can therefore be considered to be a
time-dependent coupling mechanism. Since the boundary conditions of hydrody-
namic forcing change regularly, this may mean that the beach never attains equili-
brium. Dean and Dalrymple (2004) state that beach profiles vary with time, both
seasonally as the wave climate changes and over the long-term, in response to the
pressures of erosion or accretion. Beach profiles measured at the same location
over time can provide details about the behavior of the beach. The behavior of the
entire beach can be examined in terms of shoreline recession and volumetric sand
loss by the continuous profile measurements along the beach; moreover, an overall
sand budget (sources and sinks of sand) can also be determined.
Interpretation of beach response to coastal processes can be done with geome-
tric and volumetric comparison of beach profile sets (U.S. Army Corps of Engi-
neers, 2002). Dean and Dalrymple (2004) also state that the convenient use of
beach profiles is the determination of volumetric change of a beach, ∆Vs. The vo-
lumetric calculation of profiles provide a time history of the volume of beach, and
by determining the volume differences between surveys the erosion or accretion of
the beach can be assessed as a function of time. There are no common standards for
quantifying rates of beach change (Moore, 2000) and for determining high tide
shoreline position (Galgano et al., 1998; Douglas and Crowell, 2000). Beach ero-
sion is generally quantified through some statistical treatment of retreat rates and
volumetric losses (e.g., Leatherman, 1983). Sa-Pires et al. (2004) state that the var-
iations of beach sediment volume have been widely used to quantify the changes
and to understand the beach response to coastal processes. For any geometric and
volumetric calculations an arbitrary vertical datum is needed. The definition of the
vertical datum above which is determined the beach volume is not consensual and
different authors have adopted different values.
In the present work the Mean Sea Level (MSL) has been considered as the ref-
erence vertical datum for performing geometric and volumetric analysis of beach
profiles. Sa-Pires et al. (2004) analyzed the standard deviation of relative volume
variation for different datum. They observed that beach volume variability is higher
for levels across the MSL. For each profile at a given time, the area of sand above
the arbitrary datum, from the baseline to the off-shore limit of the profile, is deter-
mined. For all profiles of the survey the volume of sand in the beach above the ar-
bitrary datum is obtained by the areas of the profiles along the beach which pro-
vides the beach sediment volume per unit length of beach.
(a) Seasonal Changes. The sediment volumes above the reference datum in
all beaches have been computed from beach profile survey data. The seasonal
beach sediment volume and their changes are given in Table 5 and represented in
Fig. 8. The volumetric analysis implies that the sediment volume along the differ-
ent beaches undergoes typical seasonal changes due to the hydrological conditions.
ISSN 0233-7584. Мор. гидрофиз. журн., 2013, № 3 48
T a b l e 5
Seasonal Changes in Beach Sediment Volume
F i g. 8. Seasonal Variation of Sediment Volume
During the period March–May the volume of sediment in beaches is bigger
almost on all beaches. The low wave energy prevailing along the study area during
this summer period enhances the trapping of sediments across the beaches. From
June onwards the sediment volume decreases by reason of changes in the wave
climate due to the SW monsoon. The sediment from the berm and high tide zone of
the beaches is eroded and transported due to the littoral currents. The change in
beach profile shows the movement of sediment from berm to the off-shore and it
Beach Name Beach Sediment Volume (cu.m/m)
During Mar.-2006 to Feb.-2007 During Mar.-2007 to Feb.-2008
Pre-
Monsoon
During
Monsoon
Post-
Monsoon
Pre-
Monsoon
During
Monsoon
Post-
Monsoon
Kanyakumari 122 105 110 119 89 97
Koottapuli 143 128 134 148 127 132
Perumanal 232 194 203 235 196 214
Idinthakarai 132 121 125 135 113 121
Navaladi 164 132 145 157 127 138
Ovari 103 82 92 102 87 87
Periathalai 411 390 404 459 399 424
Manappad 224 194 214 216 181 197
Tiruchendur 116 92 103 121 100 109
Kayalpattinam 265 237 257 265 252 259
Tuticorin-south 306 275 304 320 286 320
Tuticorin-north 101 88 96 100 89 98
ISSN 0233-7584. Мор. гидрофиз. журн., 2013, № 3 49
also indicates the development of small bars along the low tide region and off-
shore of the coasts. In addition to the changes in the beach morphology, the sedi-
ment volume undergoes rapid decreases on beaches. The reduction of sediment
volume continues up to October. From November onwards the beaches start to re-
gain the sediments. The comparatively low wave climate of the NE monsoon to the
SW monsoon enhanced the slight increase in sediment volume during the period of
October and November. After the end of December it has been noticed that the
beaches regain more amount of sediment due to the landward movement of the off-
shore sediment. Well developed berms have been noticed on some beaches due to
the movement of the off-shore sand bar towards the berm.
The present study implies that there is a spatial and temporal variation of
beach sediment volume with respect to the seasonal wave parameters along the
beaches. It also indicates the cyclic changes in the beach morphology and morpho-
dynamics. The seasonal changes in beach profiles constitute an important aspect of
the variability of the coastal environment (Clinton et al., 1975). It has been unders-
tood since the late 1940's that with few exceptions the sand level on the exposed
portion of a beach is higher towards the end of summer than at any other time of
the year. Clinton et al. (1975) state that the winter storm waves overtop the summer
berm and erode the backshore, their action thus reducing the width of the exposed
beach. The winter beach is typified by a gently sloping beach face that in places
extends shoreward to the toe of the sea cliff. Heinze (2001) states that the changes
in beaches are significantly different with respect to physiography, incident wave
energy and direction, available sediment supply, tendency to erode or accrete and
level of development. Nordstrom (1992) implies that the cycles of change in beach
profile configuration and sediment volume may be associated with changes in the
relative energy levels of winter and summer wave climates.
The present study also implies that there are more changes during the SW
monsoon than during the NE monsoon due to the difference in the wave climate
during these monsoons. The beaches are highly responding to the SW monsoon
than the NE monsoon due to the high wave conditions. Sajeev and Sankaranaraya-
nan (1996) estimated the changes in beach sediment volume along the Calicut
beaches of Kerala, India. They estimated a change of volume of 10 cu.m/m during
the SW monsoon and 5 cu.m/m during the NE monsoon. Bhat et al. (2003) esti-
mated the seasonal changes of beach sediment volume along the coast of Mahara-
stra, India. They also observed more changes in sediment volume during the SW
monsoon.
Chauhan (1997) has made extensive works in morphology of beaches along
the east coast of India. He states that the SW and the NE monsoons and non-
monsoon periods, the average wave energy flux (P) is 1.35, 0.66 and 0.4 kW/m. He
inferred that during the NE monsoon the sediments accumulate and depositional
environment prevails on the beaches along central east coast of India. He also
states that the relatively high wave and current regime during the NE monsoon
does not produce any erosions’ effect on the beach, and the area has accretionary
ISSN 0233-7584. Мор. гидрофиз. журн., 2013, № 3 50
tendency. High input of the fluvial sediments and their deposition on the beach due
to fluctuations in the wave energy flux, from the turbid water plumes during this
monsoon, appears to be the contributing process.
(b) Annual Changes. The annual beach sediment volume and changes for all
beaches along the study area are shown in Table 6. Fig. 9 shows the annual varia-
tions of the sediment volume in different beaches. During the period 2006-08, the
beaches of Kanyakumari, Koottapuli, Navaladi, Ovari and Manappad have expe-
rienced a reduction of sediment volume while the remaining beaches have gained
sediment. The Kanyakumari, Navaladi and Ovari beaches have experienced more
loss of sediment (6, 5, 4 cu.m/m respectively). The beaches of Manappad and
Koottapuli have very low sediment losses. The Idinthakarai beach has no net loss
or gain. The beaches of Periathalai, Tuticorin, Kayalpattinam, Tiruchendur, Peru-
manal and Tuticorin-south have gained sediments. The beaches of Periathalai, Tu-
ticorin-south and Kayalpattinam experienced more gain of sediment during this
period. The Periathalai beach has gained sediment of volume 29 cu.m/m and the
Tuticorin-south has gained 27 cu.m/m of sediment. The construction of breakwater
(Groin) at the Periathalai has enhanced the trapping of sediment along the coast.
During monsoon large amount of sediments from the Thambraparani River is dis-
charged along the Punnakayal coast and transported by littoral currents and waves.
The bay nature of Tuticorin-south beach has effectively enhanced the trapping of
more amount of sediments which are depositing along the coast.
T a b l e 6
Annual Changes in Beach Sediment Volume
Beach Name Beach Sediment Volume(cu.m/m) Annual Changes in Volume
(cu.m/m)
Mar.-06 Mar.-07 Feb.-08
2006-07 2007-08 Net
Kanyakumari 116 110 98 -6 -12 -18
Koottapuli 132 130 131 -2 1 -1
Perumanal 208 214 216 6 2 8
Idinthakarai 128 128 123 0 -5 -5
Navaladi 151 146 130 -5 -16 -21
Ovari 96 92 88 -4 -4 -8
Periathalai 383 412 424 29 12 41
Manappad 203 200 202 -3 2 -1
Tiruchendur 102 110 113 8 3 11
Kayalpattinam 243 262 263 19 1 20
Tuticorin-south 284 311 335 27 24 51
Tuticorin-north 100 103 105 3 2 5
ISSN 0233-7584. Мор. гидрофиз. журн., 2013, № 3 51
F i g. 9. Annual Variation of Sediment Volume
During the period 2007-08 the same trend is observed almost on all the beach-
es. But the beaches of Kanyakumari and Navaladi have experienced more loss of
sediment than that of during 2006-07. The Kanyakumari beach has experienced a
loss of 12 cu.m/m of sand and the Navaladi beach has lost 16 cu.m/m of sand. Idin-
thakarai has experienced a sand loss of 5 cu.m/m of sand while it gained sediment
during 2006-07. The Koottapuli beach has gained sediment during 2007-08 while it
lost sediment during 2006-07. The beaches of Perumanal, Periathalai, Tiruchendur,
Kayalpattinam, Tuticorin-south and Tuticorin-north have experienced gain of se-
diments. But the amounts of deposition of sediment on these beaches are decreased
than that of during the period 2006-07.
During 2006-07 the Periathalai beach gained a sand of volume 29 cu.m/m but
it is considerably decreased to 12 cu.m/m during 2007-08. Similarly the Tuticorin-
south beach has gained a sand of volume 27 cu.m/m but it is considerably de-
creased to 24 cu.m/m during 2007-08. The gains of sediment of other beaches are
also reduced during this period due to the changes in hydrological and littoral se-
diment transport. The reduction of sediment volume has also indicated the lack of
sediment supply along beaches. Edward (2005) implies that the net loss of beach
sediment results in durable changes in beach morphology as the beach seeks to ad-
just the situation of sediment deficit. On any sandy or gravelly beach profile short-
term morphodynamic changes may be embedded in longer-term changes involving
net sediments gains or losses, the latter being synonymous with overall beach ero-
sion throughout the profile and leads to shoreline changes.
ISSN 0233-7584. Мор. гидрофиз. журн., 2013, № 3 52
4.4. Wave Breaking Height and Breaking Angle
The wave climate along the study area is generally characterized by a small,
short period wind-driven waves. The monthly wise RMS wave breaking height
during the period from Mar.-2006 to Feb.-2008 measured on different beaches
along the study area are given in Tables 7 and 8. The corresponding wave breaking
angles are also given in Tables 9 and 10. Unlike the majority of coasts of the world,
the east coast of India experiences two phases of stormy conditions. They are the
SW monsoon (June–September) and the NE monsoon (October–December)
(Chauhan, 1997). From January to March low wave conditions prevail along the
study area. During March and April the wave environment begins to modify and
attain to moderate conditions. During June and July the coastal area is under the
influence of the SW monsoon and high wave energy environment prevails along
the study area during August to September moderate wave climate exists. From
October onwards the coast is under the influence of the NE monsoon. Even though
the wave climate during the NE monsoon is comparatively lower than that of the
SW monsoon, moderate storms may be developed in the Bay of Bengal. After De-
cember the wave energy starts to decrease. The wave height mostly increases dur-
ing March–June and mostly decreases during December–March along the study
area. The wave breaking heights are bigger during the monsoon periods on all the
coasts.
T a b l e 7
Wave Breaking Height (Hbrms) Measured on Beaches during 2006-07
Beach Name
RMS Wave Breaking Height from Mar.-2006 to Feb.-2007 (m)
Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb
Kanyakumari 0.38 0.40 0.42 0.81 0.69 0.59 0.40 0.68 0.51 0.52 0.42 0.41
Koottapuli 0.32 0.30 0.28 0.69 0.38 0.32 0.33 0.58 0.52 0.43 0.32 0.30
Perumanal 0.35 0.36 0.34 0.78 0.62 0.61 0.48 0.69 0.59 0.50 0.41 0.38
Idinthakarai 0.31 0.32 0.33 0.62 0.65 0.42 0.31 0.57 0.53 0.55 0.42 0.41
Navaladi 0.62 0.60 0.52 0.89 1.05 0.82 0.71 0.92 0.81 0.61 0.60 0.59
Ovari 0.57 0.52 0.53 0.95 0.75 0.71 0.64 0.84 0.74 0.68 0.61 0.52
Periathalai 0.52 0.50 0.55 1.12 0.94 0.85 0.62 0.95 0.87 0.62 0.58 0.53
Manappad 0.38 0.42 0.45 0.75 0.69 0.52 0.51 0.72 0.61 0.48 0.45 0.41
Tiruchendur 0.41 0.38 0.35 0.68 0.61 0.51 0.42 0.61 0.52 0.43 0.38 0.36
Kayalpattinam 0.32 0.31 0.34 0.65 0.52 0.47 0.43 0.57 0.52 0.48 0.41 0.34
Tuticorin-south 0.35 0.32 0.33 0.70 0.62 0.52 0.48 0.52 0.55 0.48 0.32 0.25
Tuticorin-north 0.32 0.28 0.27 0.69 0.58 0.52 0.51 0.65 0.42 0.38 0.35 0.33
ISSN 0233-7584. Мор. гидрофиз. журн., 2013, № 3 53
T a b l e 8
Wave Breaking Height (Hbrms) Measured on Beaches during 2007-08
T a b l e 9
Wave Breaking Angle (αb) Measured on Beaches during 2006-07
Beach Name
RMS Wave Breaking Height from Mar.-2007 to Feb.-2008 (m)
Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb
Kanyakumari 0.42 0.41 0.48 0.79 0.81 0.65 0.49 0.68 0.59 0.53 0.48 0.39
Koottapuli 0.30 0.32 0.33 0.59 0.45 0.36 0.31 0.58 0.49 0.38 0.31 0.30
Perumanal 0.35 0.31 0.30 0.35 0.34 0.32 0.32 0.48 0.52 0.52 0.47 0.36
Idinthakarai 0.36 0.32 0.32 0.35 0.37 0.37 0.38 0.45 0.55 0.61 0.49 0.42
Navaladi 0.68 0.67 0.69 1.22 1.25 0.95 0.67 0.92 0.89 0.68 0.62 0.60
Ovari 0.60 0.58 0.59 0.98 1.15 0.80 0.65 0.81 0.72 0.64 0.58 0.54
Periathalai 0.41 0.48 0.45 0.85 0.82 0.71 0.51 0.83 0.76 0.58 0.52 0.54
Manappad 0.45 0.46 0.42 0.78 0.65 0.61 0.52 0.76 0.65 0.53 0.49 0.48
Tiruchendur 0.34 0.32 0.35 0.78 0.69 0.61 0.43 0.52 0.51 0.47 0.43 0.40
Kayalpattinam 0.31 0.30 0.32 0.69 0.68 0.58 0.52 0.68 0.61 0.52 0.41 0.36
Tuticorin-south 0.28 0.25 0.27 0.72 0.69 0.54 0.52 0.48 0.51 0.42 0.31 0.27
Tuticorin-north 0.31 0.32 0.33 0.67 0.53 0.54 0.41 0.59 0.37 0.35 0.33 0.32
Beach Name
Wave Breaking Angle from Mar.-2006 to Feb.-2007 (degree)
Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb
Kanyakumari 75 73 43 8 8 9 7 164 165 169 164 161
Koottapuli 76 68 38 3 5 4 3 95 174 172 169 119
Perumanal 79 61 43 15 9 12 8 162 175 176 173 82
Idinthakarai 91 75 82 13 14 7 9 88 176 173 175 98
Navaladi 49 45 45 10 3 3 4 175 173 167 165 161
Ovari 68 47 49 8 7 12 7 171 175 171 165 171
Periathalai 103 58 45 5 6 6 13 171 169 118 155 135
Manappad 79 80 55 31 7 9 11 99 167 162 155 158
Tiruchendur 79 65 49 8 7 12 25 41 119 135 125 164
Kayalpattinam 72 75 58 38 31 7 12 158 167 172 173 105
Tuticorin-south 42 41 47 45 43 39 28 135 145 151 135 116
Tuticorin-north 60 68 65 8 18 7 12 98 132 142 165 125
ISSN 0233-7584. Мор. гидрофиз. журн., 2013, № 3 54
T a b l e 10
Wave Breaking Angle (αb) Measured on Beaches during 2007-08
During the period 2006-07 the maximum wave breaking wave height (1.12 m)
is noted in Periathalai and the minimum (0.25 m) is recorded on Tuticorin-south
coast. The wave-breaking heights in Navaladi, Ovari and Periathalai are bigger
than that of the other coasts. These coasts have high breaking wave heights with
plunging breakers during the monsoon. Kanyakumari, Manappad and Idinthakarai
have moderate wave climate. The coasts of Tuticorin-south, Tuticorin-north, and
Kayalpattinam have low wave climate. During the period 2007-08 the maximum
wave breaking wave height (1.25 m) is noted in Navaladi and the minimum
(0.25 m) is recorded on Tuticorin-south coast. The wave-breaking heights in Nava-
ladi and Ovari are bigger than that of the other coasts. The wave climate on the Pe-
riathalai coast is comparatively reduced than that of during 2006-07. The coasts of
Tuticorin-south, Tuticorin-north, and Kayalpattinam have low wave climates. Dur-
ing March to May the wave breaking angle mostly ranges from 50–100 deg. From
June onwards wave breaks in northern direction. During this period the wave
breaks almost parallel to the shoreline with small breaking angles. The wave break-
ing angles are less than 45 deg. to the coast in most of the beaches and coasts. This
is due to the influence of the SW monsoon. From October onwards there is a rapid
change in the direction of wave breaking angle. During this NE monsoon period
the wave breaks at greater angles with the coastline and from January onwards it
gradually decreases.
Beach Name Wave Breaking Angle from Mar.-2007 to Feb.-2008 (degree)
Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb
Kanyakumari 69 49 48 9 9 12 135 171 162 170 125 98
Koottapuli 74 52 42 31 41 42 25 137 171 161 115 125
Perumanal 74 63 51 31 15 19 12 98 98 175 95 99
Idinthakarai 78 61 48 29 17 45 24 110 95 177 95 173
Navaladi 81 87 4 7 5 12 32 173 171 105 105 101
Ovari 48 43 48 10 5 9 13 95 168 162 112 104
Periathalai 103 99 75 15 11 14 21 96 169 152 125 148
Manappad 80 72 42 24 7 8 13 88 135 97 134 121
Tiruchendur 74 65 31 12 12 7 38 92 141 105 125 138
Kayalpattinam 109 62 65 25 25 8 14 163 161 115 162 108
Tuticorin-south 45 46 55 33 24 10 26 85 132 128 135 148
Tuticorin-north 48 75 75 13 23 13 28 100 128 115 145 142
ISSN 0233-7584. Мор. гидрофиз. журн., 2013, № 3 55
4.5. Beach Dynamics and Shoreline Changes
4.5.1. Beach Erosion and Accretion
The beach profile study indicates that the study area has experienced both ero-
sion and accretion. The net change in sediment volume is represented in Fig. 10.
The Kanyakumari zone has experienced erosion. In this zone the profile survey has
been carried out in three stations namely Kanyakumari, Koottapuli and Perumanal.
Erosion is severe on the Kanyakumari beach. The Koottapuli has also experienced
erosion, but the Perumanal coast has an accretion trend. In the Ovari zone all the
selected beaches except the Periathalai beach have experienced erosion, particular-
ly the Navaladi coast has experienced more beach erosion. The Periathalai coast
has experienced accretion. In the Tuticorin zone the profile survey has been carried
out in three stations namely Manappad, Tiruchendur and the Kayalpattinam coast.
All the beaches along this zone have experienced accretion. The present study also
indicates that accretion is dominated in the Tuticorin zone. The Tuticorin-south
beach has experienced more accretion due to the bay and concave nature of shore-
line.
F i g. 10. Net Change in Sediment Volume
Beach erosion may be a short-term (order of hours to seasons) process that re-
flects adjustment to wave energy changes, or a longer-term (order of years) one
that reflects an increasingly deficient beach sediment budget. On sandy beaches
short-term changes involving erosion are commonly a part of a so called morpho-
dynamic cycle of adjustment of the beach profile to seasonal or non-seasonal
changes in wave energy (Short, 1999). Seasonal changes commonly correspond to
the classic winter profile flattened by storms and the summer profile that accretes
under fair weather conditions. The loss of beach sand usually corresponds to a gain
of sand in the near-shore area, and vice versa. Beach sand can also be lost to the
coastal features such as sand dunes, estuaries, and submarine canyons.
ISSN 0233-7584. Мор. гидрофиз. журн., 2013, № 3 56
4.5.2. Shoreline Change along Beaches
Beach profiles measured at the same location over a period can provide details
about the behavior of the beach. By taking a series of profiles along a beach and
then repeating the profile measurements at later times, the behavior of the entire
beach can be examined in terms of shoreline recession and volumetric sand loss.
The concept of an equilibrium profile which is the average beach response to the
natural forcing makes it possible to determine several beach responses to changes
in forcing. Dean and Dalrymple (2004) analyzed the inter-relation between the
shoreline changes and beach profiles. They state that the beach profile can be uti-
lized to predict the shoreline changes.
The changes in the horizontal distance between the fixed reference point on
the berm to the intersections of the beach profile with the vertical datum (∆y) is a
key factor to identify the shoreline changes. The profiles can be concerned with
changes in the shoreline position ∆y, which can represent either a shoreline ad-
vancement (∆y > 0) or a recession (∆y < 0). The shoreline changes during the pe-
riod 2008-10 and the rates of changes (∆y) along the different beaches are obtained
from the beach profile data and shown in Table 11.
T a b l e 11
Shoreline Change along Beaches
This study represents the advancement and retreat of shorelines, erosion and
accretion made along the different beaches of the study area. It also represents that
the shoreline along the Kanyakumari and Ovari coastal zone are retreating and that
of Tiruchendur and Tuticorin zones are advancing. Shoreline change investigation
along the coastal study area using remote sensing also indicated the coastal erosion
along these coastal zones. Nayak (1992) identified Kanyakumari as one of the ma-
jor erosion coasts in India. The tourism and construction of artificial barriers en-
Coastal Zone Beach Name Shoreline
Change
(m)
Rate of Shore-
line Change
(m/year)
Kanyakumari
Kanyakumari -4.10 -2.05
Koottapuli -2.20 -1.10
Perumanal 2.10 1.05
Idinthakarai -1.90 -0.95
Ovari
Navaladi -4.40 -2.20
Ovari -5.80 -2.90
Periathalai 4.00 2.00
Tiruchendur
Manappad 1.80 0.90
Tiruchendur 5.00 2.50
Kayalpattinam 1.50 0.75
Tuticorin
Tuticorin-south 9.00 4.50
Tuticorin-north 1.40 0.70
ISSN 0233-7584. Мор. гидрофиз. журн., 2013, № 3 57
hance the erosion along the Kanyakumari zone (Chauhan et al., 1996). Usha and
Subramanian (1993) have reported that the coast near Ovari is exposed by severe
erosion. But the Tiruchendur coast has experienced accretion. Sanil Kumar et al.
(2006) also identified Tiruchendur as one of the prograding coasts along the Tamil
Nadu coasts.
5. Conclusion
The study of beach profile emphasizes that the morphology of beaches along
the study area undergoes dynamic changes in different spatial and temporal scales.
Both cyclic (seasonal) and annual changes in the beach topography has been ob-
served. The morphodynamic and volumetric analysis of beach profiles indicates
that the beaches of Navaladi, Kanyakumari and Ovari have experienced more an-
nual loss of sediments and they possess severe beach erosion. The beaches of Tuti-
corin-south, Periathalai, Kayalpattinam and Tiruchendur have experienced more
accretion. The dynamic changes in the beach topography may also interact and
modify the other coastal landforms. The beach erosion has received great attention
from coastal scientists, government agencies, local authorities and beachfront own-
ers, its perception and exact definition are controversial issues, mainly as a result of
the diverse interests of the different parties involved in beaches and/or their man-
agement. A complete understanding of beach change throughout the coastal zone
requires an active coastal management and profile modeling with clear definitions
of beach processes and quantification of erosion rates.
Acknowledgement
The authors are thankful to Dr. Bhoop Singh, Director, NRDMS, Department
of Science and Technology, New Delhi for his kind help in completing the work.
The authors are also thankful to Department of Science and Technology, New Del-
hi for providing the financial assistance under NRDMS Scheme (ES/11/546/2000
and ES/11/936(5)/05).
REFERENCES
Angusamy, N. and Rajamanickam, G.V., 2000. Distribution of heavy minerals along
the beaches from Mandapam to Kanyakumari, Tamilnadu. Journal of the Geological
Society of India, 56(8), 199–211.
Bascom, W., 1980. Waves and Beaches: The Dynamics of the Ocean Surface, Revised
and Updated Edition. Garden City: Anchor Books, New York, 366 p.
Basterretxea, G.A., Orila, X.A., Jordi, X.B., Lynetta, R.L.E., Liux, C.X.M., Duartc, X.,
and Tintore, J., 2004. Seasonal dynamics of a micro tidal pocket beach with Posidonia
oceanic sea beds (Mallorca, Spain). Journal of Coastal Research, 20(4), 1155–1164.
Battjes, J.A., 1974. Computation of set-up, longshore current run-up and overlapping
due to wind generated waves. Communication of Hydraulics, Rep. No. 74–2, Dept. of
Civil Engg. Delft University of Technology, 244 p.
ISSN 0233-7584. Мор. гидрофиз. журн., 2013, № 3 58
Bhat, M.S., Chavadi, V.C., and Hegde, V.S., 2003. Morphology and sediment move-
ment in a monsoon influenced open beach at Gangavali, near Gokarn (central west
coast of India). Indian Journal of Marine Sciences, 32(1), 31–36.
Bird, E.C.F., 1996. Beach Management. Chichester: John Wiley & Sons, 281 p.
Brunsden, D., 2001. A critical assessment of the sensitivity concept in geomorphology.
Catena, 42, 99–123.
Cambers, G. and Ghina, F., 2005. Introduction to Sandwatch: An educational tool for
sustainable development. Coastal Region and Small Island Papers, 19, UNESCO, Par-
is, 96 p.
Chandrasekar, N., Anil Cherian, Rajamanickam, M., and Rajamanickam, G.V., 2001.
Influence of Garnet sand mining on beach sediment dynamics between the Periathalai
and Navaladi coast, India. Indian Journal Associations of Sedimentologists, 20(2),
223–233.
Chandrasekar, N., Saravanan, S., Loveson Immanuel, J., and Rajamanickam, M., 2006.
Classification of tsunami hazard along the southern coast of India: an initiative to safe-
guard the coastal environment from similar debacle. Science of Tsunami Hazards,
24(1), 3–23.
Chandrasekar, N. and Sheik Mujabar, P., 2010. Computer application on evaluating
beach sediment erosion and accretion from profile survey data. Computational Geos-
ciences, 14(4), 503–508.
Chandramohan, P., Sanil Kumar, V., and Nayak, B.U., 1993. Coastal processes along
the shorefront of Chilka lake, east coast of India. Indian Journal of Marine Sciences,
22, 268–272.
Chauhan, P., Nayak, S., Ramesh, R., Krishnamoorthy, R., and Ramachandran, S.,
1996. Remote sensing of suspended sediments along the Tamil Nadu Coastal waters. J.
Ind. Soc. Remote Sensing, 24 (3), 105–114.
Chauhan, O.S., 1997. Climate induced changes in beach morphology and sediment
dynamics, Machilipatnam. Second Indian National Conference on Harbour and Ocean
Engineering (Inchoe-97) Tkiruvananthapuram, December 7–10, 1153–1162.
Clinton, D. Winant, Douglas, L. Inman, and Charles, E. Nordstrom, 1975. Description
of seasonal beach changes using empirical eigenfunctions. Journal of Geophysical Re-
search, 80(15), 1979–1986.
Cooper, N.J., Leggett, D.J., and Lowe, J.P., 2000. Beach-profile measurement, theory
and analysis: Practical guidance and applied case studies. Journal of the Chartered
Institution of Water and Environmental Management, 14, 79–88.
Dean, R.G., 1983. Beach Profiles. In: Herbich, J.B. (ed.), Handbook of Coastal and
Ocean Engineering, Vol. 2: Offshore Structures, Marine Foundations, Sediment
Processes, and Modeling, Houston: Gulf Publishing Company, 715–734.
Dean, R.G. and Dalrymple, R.A., 2004. Coastal Processes with Engineering Applica-
tions, Cambridge University Press, 133–161.
ISSN 0233-7584. Мор. гидрофиз. журн., 2013, № 3 59
Douglas, B.C. and Crowell, M., 2000. Long-term shoreline position prediction and er-
ror propagation. Journal of Coastal Research, 16(2), 145–152.
Edward, J. Anthony, 2005. Beach Erosion, Encyclopedia of Coastal Science. Edited by
Maurice L. Schwartz, Published by Springer, The Netherlands.
Emery, K.O., 1961. A simple method of measuring beach profiles. Limnology and
Oceanography, 6, 90–93.
Galgano, F.A., Douglas, B.C., and Leatherman, S.P., 1998. Trends and variability of
shoreline position. Journal of Coastal Research, SI 26, 282–291.
Guillen, J., Stive, M.J.F., and Capobianco, M., 1999. Shoreline evolution of the Hol-
land coast on a decadal scale. Earth Surface Processes and Landforms, 24, 517–536.
Hardisty, J., 1994. Beach and near shore sediment transport. In: Pey, K., Sediment
Transport and Depositional Processes. Blackwell Scientific Publications, 219–255.
Heinze, H., 2001. Change in the active volume of sediment on developed and undeve-
loped beaches, southern Maine: Geological Society of America, Abstracts with Pro-
grams, 33, A2–A11.
Jayakumar, S., Raju, N.S.N., Gowthaman, R., 2004. Beach dynamics of an open coast
on the west coast of India. 3rd Indian National Conference on Harbour & Ocean Engi-
neering, NIO, Goa, 9–16.
Kasinatha Pandian, P. and Dharanirajan, K., 2007. Beach morphology and coastal pro-
tection along Ennore coast in the north of Chennai city, southeast India. Indian Journal
of Science and Technology, 1(1), 1–7.
Krause, G., 2004. The Emery-method revisited-performance of an inexpensive method
of measuring beach profiles and modifications. Journal of Coastal Research, 20(1),
340–346.
La Fond, E.C. and Rao, P.R., 1954. Beach erosion cycles near Waltair on the Bay of
Bengal, Andhra Univ., India. Memoirs in Oceanography, 1, 63–77.
Leatherman, S.P., 1983. Shoreline mapping: a comparison of techniques. Shore and
Beach, 51, 28–33.
Masselink, G. and Pattiaratchi, C.B., 2001. Seasonal changes in beach morphology
along the sheltered coastline of Perth, Western Australia. Marine Geology, 172(3–4),
243–263.
Moore, L.J., 2000. Shoreline mapping techniques. Journal of Coastal Research, 16,
111–124.
Mujabar, P.S., Chandrasekar, N., Saravanan, P., Loveson, S., 2007. Impact of the 26th
December 2004 tsunami along the coast between Kanyakumari and Ovari, Tamil Nadu,
South India. Shore and Beach, 75(2), 22–29.
Mujabar, P.S. and Chandrasekar, N., 2011a. Shoreline change analysis along the coast
between Kanyakumari and Tuticorin, India using remote sensing and GIS. Arabian
Journal of Geosciences, DOI: 10.1007/s12517-011-0394-4.
ISSN 0233-7584. Мор. гидрофиз. журн., 2013, № 3 60
Mujabar, P.S. and Chandrasekar, N., 2011b. A shoreline change analysis along the
coast between Kanyakumari and Tuticorin, India using digital shoreline analysis sys-
tem. Geo-Spatial Information Science, 14(4), 282–293.
Mujabar, P.S. and Chandrasekar, N., 2011c. Coastal erosion hazardous assessment for
the southern coastal Tamil Nadu and implication for sustainable development. Natural
Hazards, DOI: 10.1007/s11069-011-9962-x.
Mujabar, P.S., Chandrasekar, N., and Saravanan, S., 2006. Impact of the 26th December
2004 tsunami on beach morphology and sediment volume along the coast between
Ovari and Kanyakumari Tamilnadu, South India. Shore and Beach, 75(2), 22–29.
Nayak, S., 1992. Coastal Environment. Scientific Note, Space Applications Centre,
Ahmedabad. RSAM/SAC/COM/SN/ 11/92, 114 p.
Nordstrom, C.F., 1992. Estuarine beaches: an introduction to the physical and human
factors, Elsevier Applied Science, London and New York, 1992. 16th Edi. 225 p.
Parson, L.E., 1997. Beach and Near-Shore Survey Technology. Coastal Engineering
Technical Note, U.S. Army Engineers Waterways and Experiment Station, CETN II-38
(6/97). 10 p.
Rajamanickam, M., 2006. Remote sensing and GIS application on beach placer miner-
als evaluation along the coast between Kallar and Vembar. Ph.D., Thesis, Tamil Uni-
versity, Tanjore, 179 p.
Ramanujam, N., Radhakrishnan, V., Sabeen, H.M., and Mukesh, M.V., 1996. Morpho-
dynamic state of beaches between Vaipar and Tiruchendur, Tamilnadu. Journal of
Geological Society of India, 47, 741–746.
Reddy, D.R., Prasad, V.V.S., Reddy, K.S.N., Varma, D.D., and Malathi, V., 2000. Sea-
sonal variation in beach morphology and grain size characteristics for the shore be-
tween Baruva and Vajarpukotturu. East Coast of India. Journal of Indian Association
for Sedimentologists, 19(1&2), 47–58.
Sajeev, R. and Sankaranarayanan, V.N., 1996. Seasonal changes of the sediment size
distribution and stability along the beaches of Kerala, southwest coast of India. Indian
Journal of Marine Sciences, 25, 216–220.
Sanil Kumar, V., Pathak, K.C.P., Pednekar, P., Raju, N.S.N., and Gowthaman, R.,
2006. Coastal processes along the Indian coastline. Current Science, 91(4), 530–536.
Sa-Pires, C., Taborda, R., Ferreira, O., and Dias, J.A., 2004. Beach volume changes:
Vertical datum definition. Journal of Coastal Research, SI 39, 341–344.
Short, A.D. and Trembanis, A.C., 2004. Decadal scale patterns in beach oscillation and
rotation Narrabeen Beach, Australia – Time series, PCA and wavelet analysis. Journal
of Coastal Research, 20(2), 523–532.
Short, A.D., 1999. Beach and Shore Face Morphodynamics. Chichester: John Wiley &
Sons, 379 p.
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, 2002. Coastal Engineering Manual. Engineer Manual,
1110-2-1100, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Washington, D.C. (in 6 volumes).
ISSN 0233-7584. Мор. гидрофиз. журн., 2013, № 3 61
Usha, N. and Subramanian, S.P., 1993. Seasonal shoreline oscillations of Tamil Nadu
coast. Current Sciences, 65, 667–668.
Vasudav, K., Sastry, A.V.R., and Swamy, A.S.R., 1986. Seasonal changes in the Viz-
hakapattinam-Bhimunpattinam beach profiles. Journal of Indian Association of Sedi-
mentology, 6, 17–24.
Vijayam, B.E., U. Aswathanarayaka and C. Mahadevan, M., 1960. Sand movement on
the Waltair beach, Visakhapatnam, India. Current Science, 26, 145–150.
Wright, L.D. and Short, A., 1983. Morphodynamic variability of surf zones and beach-
es: A synthesis. Marine Geology, 56, 93–118.
Ying Li, Murray, L., and Dominic, R., 2005. Multi-scale variability of beach profiles at
Duck: A wavelet analysis. Coastal Engineering, 52(12), 1133–1153.
Zinn, D.J., 1969. An inclinometer for measuring beach slopes. Marine Biology, 2, 132–
134.
* National College of Engineering, Manuscript received 04.01.12
Maruthakulam, Tirunelveli, Revised 01.02.13
India
E-mail: sheikmujabar@yahoo.com
** Center for Geo-Technology,
Manonmaniam Sundaranar University, Tirunelveli,
India
АНОТАЦІЯ Аналіз профілів пляжів є найпоширенішим методом вивчення їх динаміки. Про-
ведено топографічний та морфологічний аналіз пляжів уздовж південного берега Тамілнад
(Індія) з використанням методів зйомки їх профілів. Отримані дані обробляються із застосу-
ванням сучасних програмних засобів, зокрема “Beach Morphology Analysis Package” («Пакет
для аналізу морфології пляжу»). Представлено динаміку просторових профілів пляжів, про-
аналізовано їх морфологічні параметри, такі, як ширина та уклон. Проведено морфологічний і
гранулометричний аналіз наносів на пляжах та їх річної та сезонної динаміки. В результаті на
пляжах Каньякумарі, Наваладі та Оварі виявлене значне зменшення наносів, тоді як на пляжах
південного Тутікоріна, Періаталай, Кайалпатінам і Тіручендур зафіксовані більші об'єми нано-
сів. За результатами досліджень рекомендується здійснювати контроль за природним піджив-
ленням пляжів для зберігання їх від берегової ерозії.
Ключові слова: геоморфологія, берегова ерозія, транспорт наносів, зміна берегової лінії.
АННОТАЦИЯ Анализ профилей пляжей является наиболее распространенным методом изу-
чения их динамики. Проведен топографический и морфологический анализ пляжей вдоль юж-
ного берега Тамилнад (Индия) с использованием методов съемки их профилей. Полученные
данные обрабатываются с применением современных программных средств, в частности
“Beach Morphology Analysis Package” («Пакет для анализа морфологии пляжа»). Представлена
динамика пространственных профилей пляжей, проанализированы их морфологические пара-
метры, такие, как ширина и уклон. Проведен морфологический и гранулометрический анализ
наносов на пляжах и их годовой и сезонной динамики. В результате на пляжах Каньякумари,
Навалади и Овари обнаружено значительное уменьшение наносов, в то время как на пляжах
южного Тутикорина, Периаталай, Кайалпатинам и Тиручендур зафиксированы бόльшие объе-
мы наносов. По результатам исследований рекомендуется осуществлять контроль за естест-
венной подпиткой пляжей для сохранения их от береговой эрозии.
Ключевые слова: геоморфология, береговая эрозия, транспорт наносов, изменение бере-
говой линии.
|
| id | nasplib_isofts_kiev_ua-123456789-56613 |
| institution | Digital Library of Periodicals of National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine |
| issn | 0233-7584 |
| language | English |
| last_indexed | 2025-12-01T20:18:15Z |
| publishDate | 2013 |
| publisher | Морський гідрофізичний інститут НАН України |
| record_format | dspace |
| spelling | Mujabar, P.S. Chandrasekar, N. 2014-02-20T23:49:49Z 2014-02-20T23:49:49Z 2013 Beach Topography and Morphodynamics along the Southern Coastal Tamil of India by Using Beach Profile Analysis / P.S. Mujabar, N. Chandrasekar // Морской гидрофизический журнал. — 2013. — № 3. — С. 35-61. — Бібліогр.: 55 назв. — англ. 0233-7584 https://nasplib.isofts.kiev.ua/handle/123456789/56613 551.46(267) Beaches are highly dynamic in nature. Several tons of sediment are redistributing each day due to the action of waves, winds and currents. The profiles of beaches, cliffs and other coastal landforms are often studied and analyzed in the coastal areas. The most common method for measuring beach topographic change is the beach profile. This manuscript deals with the topographical and morphological analysis of beaches along the southern coastal Tamil Nadu of India by using beach profile surveys. The beaches are surveyed by using a surveyor’s level. The obtained data from the surveys are processed by using sophisticated software tools such as “Beach Morphology Analysis Package” (BMAP), an integrated set of computer analysis routines compiled by Coastal Engineering Research Center (CERC) at the U.S. Army Engineer Waterways Experiment Station. The temporal and spatial representations of beach profiles have been delivered and the morphological parameters such as beach width and slope have been analyzed. The volumetric analysis of beach sediments and their annual and seasonal variations have been performed. Both cyclic (seasonal) and annual changes in the beach topography have been observed. The morphodynamic and volumetric analysis of beach profiles indicates that the beaches of Kanyakumari, Navaladi, and Ovari have experienced more annual loss of sediments and they poses severe beach erosion. The beaches of Tuticorin-south, Periathalai, Kayalpattinam and Tiruchendur have experienced more accretion. The dynamic changes in the beach topography may also interact and modify the other coastal landforms. The wave climate along the coast has also influenced the sediment dynamics of beaches. The present study implies that proper beach filling and nourishment projects should be made along the study area to save it from coastal erosion. Аналіз профілів пляжів є найпоширенішим методом вивчення їх динаміки. Проведено топографічний та морфологічний аналіз пляжів уздовж південного берега Тамілнад(Індія) з використанням методів зйомки їх профілів. Отримані дані обробляються із застосуванням сучасних програмних засобів, зокрема “Beach Morphology Analysis Package” («Пакет для аналізу морфології пляжу»). Представлено динаміку просторових профілів пляжів, проаналізовано їх морфологічні параметри, такі, як ширина та уклон. Проведено морфологічний і гранулометричний аналіз наносів на пляжах та їх річної та сезонної динаміки. В результаті на пляжах Каньякумарі, Наваладі та Оварі виявлене значне зменшення наносів, тоді як на пляжах південного Тутікоріна, Періаталай, Кайалпатінам і Тіручендур зафіксовані більші об'єми наносів. За результатами досліджень рекомендується здійснювати контроль за природним підживленням пляжів для зберігання їх від берегової ерозії. Анализ профилей пляжей является наиболее распространенным методом изучения их динамики. Проведен топографический и морфологический анализ пляжей вдоль южного берега Тамилнад (Индия) с использованием методов съемки их профилей. Полученные данные обрабатываются с применением современных программных средств, в частности “Beach Morphology Analysis Package” («Пакет для анализа морфологии пляжа»). Представлена динамика пространственных профилей пляжей, проанализированы их морфологические параметры, такие, как ширина и уклон. Проведен морфологический и гранулометрический анализ наносов на пляжах и их годовой и сезонной динамики. В результате на пляжах Каньякумари, Навалади и Овари обнаружено значительное уменьшение наносов, в то время как на пляжах южного Тутикорина, Периаталай, Кайалпатинам и Тиручендур зафиксированы бόльшие объемы наносов. По результатам исследований рекомендуется осуществлять контроль за естественной подпиткой пляжей для сохранения их от береговой эрозии. The authors are thankful to Dr. Bhoop Singh, Director, NRDMS, Department of Science and Technology, New Delhi for his kind help in completing the work. The authors are also thankful to Department of Science and Technology, New Delhi for providing the financial assistance under NRDMS Scheme (ES/11/546/2000 and ES/11/936(5)/05). en Морський гідрофізичний інститут НАН України Морской гидрофизический журнал Экспериментальные и экспедиционные исследования Beach Topography and Morphodynamics along the Southern Coastal Tamil of India by Using Beach Profile Analysis Article published earlier |
| spellingShingle | Beach Topography and Morphodynamics along the Southern Coastal Tamil of India by Using Beach Profile Analysis Mujabar, P.S. Chandrasekar, N. Экспериментальные и экспедиционные исследования |
| title | Beach Topography and Morphodynamics along the Southern Coastal Tamil of India by Using Beach Profile Analysis |
| title_full | Beach Topography and Morphodynamics along the Southern Coastal Tamil of India by Using Beach Profile Analysis |
| title_fullStr | Beach Topography and Morphodynamics along the Southern Coastal Tamil of India by Using Beach Profile Analysis |
| title_full_unstemmed | Beach Topography and Morphodynamics along the Southern Coastal Tamil of India by Using Beach Profile Analysis |
| title_short | Beach Topography and Morphodynamics along the Southern Coastal Tamil of India by Using Beach Profile Analysis |
| title_sort | beach topography and morphodynamics along the southern coastal tamil of india by using beach profile analysis |
| topic | Экспериментальные и экспедиционные исследования |
| topic_facet | Экспериментальные и экспедиционные исследования |
| url | https://nasplib.isofts.kiev.ua/handle/123456789/56613 |
| work_keys_str_mv | AT mujabarps beachtopographyandmorphodynamicsalongthesoutherncoastaltamilofindiabyusingbeachprofileanalysis AT chandrasekarn beachtopographyandmorphodynamicsalongthesoutherncoastaltamilofindiabyusingbeachprofileanalysis |