Satellite Mapping and Demarcation Analysis for Coastal Regulation Zones Assessment

Abstract

Rapid urbanization and expanding tourism have led to widespread encroachments, particularly in flood-prone areas, where land degradation is more likely. Conventional methods of on-foot inspections for detecting these encroachments are intricate and time-consuming. A scarcity of data has resulted in undocumented violations, prompting the need for advanced technologies like satellite remote sensing. The current paper focuses on demonstrating the effectiveness of satellite remote sensing in detecting large-scale encroachments near flood-prone zones. Due to frequent undetected illegal constructions, Coastal Regulation Zones (CRZ) are a specific area of interest. This study employs a well-established method of analysis acquired from an extensive literature review to investigate illegal construction and encroachments via remote sensing advances. The research advocates for a practical analysis to combat illegal constructions in CRZs, presenting a comprehensive database through a concise portal for easy accessibility and analysis. The case study in Kerala, India, a region prone to natural disasters like monsoon floods, provides crucial data for measuring the boundaries required to preserve the ecosystem. The research underscores the significance of satellite remote sensing in efficiently addressing environmental threats posed by encroachments, offering insights applicable to regions facing similar challenges. This analysis has proven effective in diverse global settings and offers a standardized approach for demarking CRZ throughout the globe. Its adaptability and reliability across different terrain types and climatic conditions underscore its potential as a valuable tool in mapping encroachments. The current study contributes to the discourse on sustainable urban development, aiming to inform policies promoting resilience and ecological consciousness in rapid urbanization and tourism expansion.