A Study on the Coastal Protection System against Erosion of Bay of Bengal in North Chennai Coast, Tamil Nadu

Equilibrium conditions at shores of Chennai were upset when an artificial harbour was constructed in 1875, which was projected about 1 km into the sea. Because of this construction, there is heavy accretion on the southern side of the harbour resulting in Marina beach and severe erosion on the northern side. The study of north Chennai coastal area involves the collection of bathymetry of the area, and data on waves, tides, currents and winds. After analysing the data, suitable remedial measures like construction of sea wall, groynes and break water were examined. Out of all, the function of sea wall was observed to be the best remedial measure in controlling the erosion. The data on physical model study available at Institute of Hydraulic and Hydrology, Poondi were examined and a suitable remedy was designed.