Sea ingress threaten coastal Kendrapara as geo-synthetic wall wears down

Residents in Kendrapara district face growing concern as rising sea levels, linked to climate change, threaten their coastal villages. The relentless sea has been persistently advancing and is particularly affecting Satabhaya and Pentha regions under the Rajnagar block.

A geo-synthetic wall, erected in 2014 as a protective measure, is now under threat.

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This half-kilometre-long barrier, constructed at a cost of around Rs 33 Crore, was set up as a pilot project to guard against high tides.

Presently, the wall is showing signs of disintegration, with gabion boxes breaking apart and stones being swept away. This 505-metre structure, once a bulwark against the advancing sea, is gradually yielding to the relentless tides.

This deterioration has caused panic among locals who now see the sea moving menacingly closer to their homes, which were previously about five kilometres inland.

Initially reassured by the geo-synthetic wall's presence, the residents are now appealing to local authorities for swift repairs. The impact on the Rajnagar block is increasingly severe.

As concerns rise, locals call on the district administration for immediate intervention.

Kendrapara district Collector has assured residents that rapid measures will be undertaken to fortify the coastal defences and address the situation promptly.

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“We previously had discussions over the issue and sought the advice of an expert in this regard and we are looking into what can be done,” District Collector Smruti Ranjan Pradhan said mediapersons.

“From a geographical point of view, not only Pentha but the entire Kendrapara district is most vulnerable to coastal erosion. It is a natural phenomenon but we will take appropriate steps in the future,” Collector Pradhan added.