Rare Recession of Sea at Vizag Beach Sparks Caution
- August 27, 2024
- Posted by: OptimizeIAS Team
- Category: DPN Topics
Rare Recession of Sea at Vizag Beach Sparks Caution
Sub : Geo
Sec: Geomorphology
Why in News:
On August 26, 2024, RK Beach in Visakhapatnam experienced an unusual event where the sea receded by approximately 150 meters, exposing the rocky seabed and accumulated waste. This rare phenomenon attracted significant attention from both locals and visitors.
Unusual Sea Recession
- The sea retreated by about 150 meters along RK Beach and other nearby areas such as Rushikonda, Sagar Nagar, Tenneti Park, and Lawson’s Bay.
- This event allowed beachgoers to walk extensively on the previously submerged seabed.
Public Reaction: The phenomenon drew large crowds, with many people exploring the newly exposed seabed and taking photographs.
Potential Concerns
Expert Warning: Arjili Dasu, General Secretary of the National Fisherfolk Forum, cautioned that such receding could indicate abnormal weather conditions, including cyclones or tsunamis.
Scientific Explanation: According to the National Institute of Oceanography (NIO), this occurrence is likely due to the shifting of ocean currents from north to south, a pattern common during August and September.
Scientific Insights
- Velamala S. Naidu, a retired Senior Principal Scientist, suggested that changes in tidal patterns or ocean current directions could be responsible for the sea recession.
- V.V.S.S. Sarma, Chief Scientist at NIO (East Coast), noted that the sea receding might signal a low-pressure system forming, potentially leading to cyclonic conditions.
Meteorological Update
- The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecasted a low-pressure system over the East Central and adjoining North Bay of Bengal by August 29, 2024. There is a potential for heavy rainfall across Andhra Pradesh from August 29 to 31.
The rare retreat of the sea at Vizag Beach has garnered attention due to its unusual nature and potential implications for weather patterns. While some view it as a fascinating natural event, experts and authorities are monitoring the situation closely for possible developments related to adverse weather conditions
Ramakrishna Beach (RK Beach):
Location: Ramakrishna Beach, is situated on the east coast of the Bay of Bengal in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh.
Proximity: The beach is located near Dolphin’s Nose, a prominent geographical feature in Visakhapatnam.
Name Origin: The beach is named after the Ramakrishna Mission ashram situated nearby.
Recent Event: In August 2024, RK Beach experienced a notable sea recession, with the sea retreating by approximately 150 meters due to specific tidal and oceanographic conditions.
Scientific Monitoring: The beach’s tidal patterns and coastal dynamics are monitored by the National Institute of Oceanography (NIO) and local authorities for research and management
Rushikonda Beach:
Blue Flag Certification: Recognized as one of the cleanest beaches in India.
Location: Strategically positioned between Dolphin’s Nose and Bheemunipatam, facing the Bay of Bengal.
Geological Significance: Identified as a ‘Triangular Station’ by the Geological Survey of India.
Environmental and Cultural Significance
Coastal Regulation Zone: Protected area that serves as a nesting site for Olive Ridley Turtles.
Historical Reference: Known as ‘Sugarloaf’ by European sailors.
Cultural Heritage:
- Home to the 14th-century Sri Sarva Rusheswara Temple, surrounded by seven hills.
- Associated with the mythology of the Sapta Rishi.
Geological Wonders
Red Sand Hills (Erra Matti Dibbalu): Nearly 12,000 years old, located on the Vizag-Bheemili Beach Road.
Wave-Cut Platforms: Natural rock formations on the Rushikonda-Bheemili beach stretch.
Mineral Richness: The area’s sand dunes are rich in ilmenite (titanium ore).
Dolphin’s Nose
Location: A prominent headland in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, jutting out into the Bay of Bengal.
Appearance: The rock formation resembles the shape of a dolphin’s nose, giving it its name.
Elevation: Stands about 174 meters (570 feet) above sea level.
Strategic Importance:
- Lighthouse: Houses a lighthouse that guides ships approaching Visakhapatnam Port, with a beam range of 65 km.
- Naval Significance: The area is home to key naval installations, contributing to India’s maritime security.
Olive Ridley Turtle: Scientific Name: Lepidochelys olivacea. Appearance: Small, olive-colored shell; weighs 35-50 kg. Habitat: Found in tropical waters; key nesting sites on India’s Odisha coast. Nesting: Famous for mass nesting events called “arribadas” on beaches like Gahirmatha and Rushikulya. Diet: Omnivorous, feeding on jellyfish, crabs, and algae. Conservation: Classified as Vulnerable; protected in India under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. |