The Saga of Sahyadri: Societal environmental issues of Konkan and Goa
Abstract
When we think of seashore, we imagine pristine sunny beaches, forested mountains and pretty rivers meandering down the lush-green hill slopes. We also imagine people merrily flocking to the beaches every evening, wondering at the waves splashing on the shore, the fishermen tending their nets and receiving fishing boats with a happy song. Few among us realize that behind this picture of sun, sand and song lies a conflict, which is invisible to a visitor. A perennial conflict between man and forces of nature that makes life on the coast rather harsh. Most of this dream-like landscape consisting of sandy beaches and rocky shore with dynamic coastline is unfit for cultivation. Even fresh water is scarce on the coast due to unsuitability of shore as deep lasting aquifer. Most of the coastal rivers are saline as the tidal water from the sea mixes with the fresh river water every day. This makes the coastal rivers unsuitable either for domestic water supply or for irrigation. Coastal regions are humid, thus making summers unpleasant, especially for outdoor activities. Humid air also breeds a host of germs that affects respiratory health. During storms and cyclones, the coastal region becomes the first target for devastation. The region along the Sahyadri ranges on India's west coast is internationally acclaimed for its sun and sand making it a heavenly abode. With the growing demand for the coastal space due to demographic burden, tourism and industrialization, the region is subjected to rapid changes. This article describes the societal environmental issues besieging the coastal region on the foothills of Sahyadri hills, in particular, Konkan and Goa.
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