INCOIS begins multi-hazard vulnerability mapping of coastline

Once over with the multi-hazard vulnerability mapping, INCOIS will prepare '3D GIS' maps to identify the most vulnerable sectors along the coast, INCOIS Director Satheesh C Shenoi said.

"We have initiated work on the multi-hazard vulnerability mapping of the entire coastline and then identify the most vulnerable areas from the hazard point of view to set up the '3D GIS' maps for those selected areas," Shenoi said, adding a methodology was being worked out for mapping process.

"We are appointing a committee of experts to finalise the scientific methodology to be followed," he said.

The mapping will consider all coastal hazards arising from sea level rise, coastal erosion, wave action, storm surges and tsunamis.

INCOIS, which houses the Indian Tsunami Early Warning Centre, has already generated multi-hazard vulnerability maps of Nagapattanam in Tamil Nadu besides Nellore district in Andhra Pradesh.

Explaining the '3D GIS' maps, Shenoi said these maps will provide details on the most vulnerable areas on the coast having more population and infrastructure.

"In the event of tsunami and other natural calamities, the multi-hazard vulnerability mapping and '3D GIS' maps will be very useful to decision makers including Disaster Management authorities as they give accurate information on the areas (prone to submerge) to plan on the precautionary measures including buildings evacuation," he said.

"The estimated time frame of the project is three years. We are planning to complete the process of mapping in one-and-a-half-year and next take up '3D GIS' maps," he said.