NEW DELHI: India's coastline which spans across nine coastal states Gujarat, Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, and Bengal has expanded by nearly 50% over the past five decades, according to a recent report by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). The coastline has grown from 7,516 kilometers in 1970 to 11,098 kilometers in 2023-24, marking a significant increase. 

This expansion is attributed to new methodologies for measuring coastal accretion and erosion, which provide a more accurate representation of India's maritime boundaries with states like Gujarat, Bengal, and Goa showing substantial growth in their shorelines.

Gujarat has seen the most substantial growth, with its coastline nearly doubling from 1,214 kilometers in 1970 to 2,340 kilometers in the past 53 years. Bengal experienced the highest percentage increase, with its coastline growing by 357% from 157 kilometers to 721 kilometers. Tamil Nadu's coastline also saw a significant revision, increasing from 906 kilometers to 1,068 kilometers, surpassing Andhra Pradesh's coastline of 1,053 kilometers.

The updated measurements have important implications for coastal infrastructure projects and economic development. States like Andhra Pradesh are focusing on developing new ports such as Ramayapatnam, Krishnapatnam, and Kakinada Gateway, which are expected to boost economic activity, employment, logistics, industrialization, and urbanization along their coastlines.

However, not all regions experienced growth. Puducherry's coastline, including Karaikal, Yanam, and Mahe, contracted by 10.4%, shrinking by 4.9 kilometers. Kerala reported the smallest increase, adding just 30 kilometers (5%) to its coastline.

The new methodology for measuring India's coastline incorporates complex coastal formations such as bays, estuaries, inlets, and other geomorphological features, providing a more precise representation of the true length of the coastline. This updated approach is expected to guide future coastal infrastructure projects and enhance India's maritime economy.

Overall, the expansion of India's coastline highlights the dynamic nature of coastal environments and the importance of accurate measurement techniques for planning and development. As the country continues to develop its coastal regions, the updated data will play a crucial role in shaping future projects and ensuring sustainable growth.