While the triumphs of Chandrayaan-3 and Aditya-L1 missions echo globally, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) faces an unexpected challenge—combating sea erosion at its revered spaceport in Sriharikota. In the last four years, the island has lost 100 meters of coastline, prompting urgent mitigation efforts.
EROSION CHALLENGE
Cyclonic storms have not only claimed over 100 meters of shoreline but also led to the loss of crucial roads. The Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) sought assistance from the National Centre for Coastal Research (NCCR) to analyze and address this threat.
In early 2022, NCCR scientists conducted an in-depth study to identify the causes and effects of erosion. Although the findings remain undisclosed, officials attribute the worsening situation to human activities such as dam construction and port development. The proposed remedial measures, including the construction of groynes, restrictions on further construction, and replenishment of the coastline with fresh sand, await approval from the central government.
AWAITING GOVERNMENT APPROVAL
While the NCCR awaits the central government’s nod for the proposed measures, the urgency to safeguard Sriharikota’s ecosystem and infrastructure remains paramount. The recommended actions aim to not only address the immediate erosion threat but also ensure the long-term sustainability of this pivotal spaceport.
SRIHARIKOTA’S UNIQUE SETTING
Sriharikota, with its rich history and crucial role in India’s space exploration, stands as a symbol of national pride. The potential relocation of scientists to another site poses a loss not only to tangible infrastructure but also to the intangible national memory associated with the island. Situated off the coast of Andhra Pradesh, Sriharikota spans 175 km with a 50 km coastline. Separated from the mainland by the Bay of Bengal and Pulicat Lake, a bird sanctuary, the island’s ecological significance is immense. The delicate balance between restricted human entry and the thriving ecosystem, characterized by mangrove forests and migratory birds, adds to the island’s unique charm.
HISTORICAL TRANSFORMATION
Once a secluded island with reserved forests, Sriharikota transformed after catching the attention of space scientists. Factors such as proximity to the equator, isolation from human settlements, and a solid ground with a layer of hard rock underneath made it an ideal rocket launch site. Formerly a humble locale, it now plays a pivotal role in India’s space exploration narrative.
As India’s spaceport battles erosion, the imminent threat underscores the need for swift governmental action. Preserving Sriharikota’s legacy involves not only protecting vital infrastructure but also safeguarding the memories etched in its history. The island’s role in propelling India into the cosmos makes it a testament to the nation’s scientific prowess and ambitions.
