In the face of rising sea levels, researchers from MIT and Invena are experimenting with innovative underwater structures to combat erosion in the Maldives. These structures use natural forces like ocean currents to encourage sand accumulation, potentially protecting existing islands and even creating new ones.
The Southwest Monsoon has arrived in Mumbai two days ahead of its usual schedule on June 9th. Mumbai is likely to experience thunderstorms and heavy to very heavy rainfall in the coming days. Other states in Maharashtra and South India, including Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka, have also received significant rainfall. Coastal areas of Kerala are facing high waves and coastal erosion, prompting authorities to issue warnings to fishermen and coastal residents. Authorities recommend avoiding beach and sea activities and securing fishing vessels.
A historic 18th-century farmhouse in Trimingham, Norfolk, England, is precariously hanging over the edge of an eroded coastal cliff. The farmhouse, known as Cliff Farm, was purchased at auction five years ago for approximately $165,000. However, significant erosion has left the structure in danger of collapsing onto the beach below. The homeowner has been evacuated, and the North Norfolk District Council has announced plans to demolish the property before it collapses. The erosion has been accelerated by heavy rainfall over the winter, which saturated the steep cliffs and caused several landslides. Coastal erosion has also impacted other areas along the coast, including the seaside resort town of Hemsby, where several homes have been destroyed.
Coastal erosion has been a growing concern in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, with fisherfolk struggling to protect their livelihoods and homes. The construction of the Vizhinjam seaport has exacerbated the issue, leading to protests and demands for a study on its impact. The government has constituted a committee to investigate the matter, but the report is yet to be published. Meanwhile, the Adani Ports conducted a study which stated that there was erosion on the northern side of the port and accretion on the southern side. However, it could not conclude whether this was a result of the port. The fisherfolk are anxious about the future of their homes and livelihoods, as sea incursions have increased due to the port. They demand the construction of groynes to protect the shores. The political implications of the Vizhinjam protest are being debated, with some suggesting it could affect the upcoming Lok Sabha polls. The coastal votes have traditionally supported the Congress, but there is confusion among voters due to the anti-Vizhinjam protest. While some are leaning towards the BJP, others believe the protest should not influence their voting decisions.
The long-awaited San Clemente Beach Nourishment project is set to resume this week after months of delays caused by equipment malfunctions and the search for a suitable sand source. The project aims to replenish the city’s dwindling beaches, providing a protective buffer against erosion and expanding recreational space. However, funding concerns persist as the city faces potential additional costs due to project delays and a longer distance to obtain sand. The project has been in the planning stages for over 20 years and is part of a larger effort to address chronic erosion along the Southern California coast.
A historic 18th century farmhouse in Trimingham, Norfolk, is facing imminent demolition after coastal erosion left it teetering over a cliff edge. Once situated at a safe distance from the coastline, the three-bedroom property has been gradually inching closer to the brink due to relentless erosion. Recent landslips have exposed the rear portion of the house, prompting the local council to issue a demolition order to prevent it from collapsing onto the beach below. The owner, forced to evacuate the property, understands the precarious situation and has consented to the demolition.
