Aquatic Pollution and Coastal Management

Unit 11 : Monitoring and control of pollution

11.3.1.Gujarat Coast
Of all the maritime states of India, Gujarat has the longest coastline. Important river outfalls are Sabarmathi, Mahi, Narmada, Tapi, Saraswathi, Ambika, Par, Kolak and Daman Ganga. Not less than 35 industries including seven industrial estates are located near the coast, with, chemicals, petrochemicals, fertilizers, pharmaceuticals, pesticides, textile and power plants predominating. Besides the release of effluents from these industries, treated domestic wastes are released into the various water bodies of this coastal state. In addition, dredging, navigation and transport of crude oil are the sources of potential threats to the coastal waters.
Gulf of Kutch had extensive coral reefs with lush green mangroves and sparkling white sandy beaches. Large scale removal of coral stones and white sand has brought the following adverse effects.

• Severe erosion and high load of suspended solids.
• Replacement of mangrove with mud flats
• Blanketing of corals by thick silt
• Reduction in the number of suspension feeder and photosynthesisers
• More than 40% reduction in fauna and flora.The recent ban on the removal of corals and white sand has revived by system.