SWOT and PCI based grading of coastal zone: A model emulation from Tamil Nadu Coast, India

Abstract

In this study, various essential analyses were chosen to measure the changeability of diverse coastal regions of Tamil Nadu. Appraisals of coastal regions were made in terms of qualitative and quantitative variables constituting Strength (S) and Weakness (W) elements of internal factors and Opportunity (O) and Threat (T) elements of external of factors. The assessments are presented in grades ranging from zero to five (0 to 5). These numerical ratings are recalculated into another parameter called effective rating which enables calculation of the new suggested percent coastal index. Outcome of the analysis indicated that the Ramanathapuram district has scored 42.8% and Kancheepuram district scored 33%. According to the SWOT and percent coastal index analyses, the Ramanathapuram district appears to be a better coast and Kancheepuram as a poor. In particular, the estimation of percent coastal index suggested that overall Tamil Nadu coastal regions have scored 37%. Further it is also observed that Tamil Nadu coastal zone is still underdeveloped condition as its percent coastal index values range from 33% to 42.8%. Thus proposed indices may assist decision-makers to develop the Tamil Nadu coastal regions.

Keywords:

• Percent coastal index
• quantitative assessment
• beach quality
• Tamil Nadu coast
• coastal management

Acknowledgment

Authors sincerely thank Dr. R. Arthur James (Associate Professor and Head), Department of Marine Science, Bharathidasan University, Thiruchirappalli, for providing lab facility during this study. We thank former senior scientist Dr. A. Suryanarayana, National Institute of Oceanography, Goa, for their help and support during this study. This research did not receive any specific grant from funding agencies in the public, commercial, or not-for-profit sectors.