Feasibility of UAV photogrammetry for shoreline profile changes on critical beach area: a case study at Pantai Mengabang Telipot

Abstract

This study evaluates the effectiveness of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in monitoring coastal changes at Pantai Mengabang Telipot, Kuala Terengganu, Malaysia. Addressing the limitations of traditional monitoring methods, such as ground-based surveys and satellite imagery, the research underscores the critical need for timely and precise coastal monitoring using drone technology. The study employs a comprehensive four-phase methodology involving area identification, data acquisition through UAV imagery, data processing, and accuracy analysis. The orthophoto accuracy achieved, compared to detailed shoreline surveys, is 0.064 m. Analysis of shoreline changes over two observation periods reveals a retreat of 0.056 m per day over 14 days, escalating to 0.180 m per day during the subsequent 20 days. These findings highlight the influence of the Southwest Monsoon and man-made structures on coastal dynamics. The results contribute significantly to advancing UAV-based coastal change assessments, emphasizing their pivotal role in precision-driven decision-making for sustainable coastal management.