Coastal plains and islands

India has two main coastal plains: the Western Coastal Plain and the Eastern Coastal Plain.
The Western Coastal Plain lies between the Western Ghats and the Arabian Sea.
The Eastern Coastal Plain lies between the Eastern Ghats and the Bay of Bengal.
The Western Coastal Plain is narrower and characterized by numerous lagoons and backwaters, such as Vembanad Lake in Kerala.
The Eastern Coastal Plain is broader and has fertile deltas formed by major rivers like the Godavari, Krishna, and Kaveri.
The Konkan Coast, Kannada Coast, and Malabar Coast are sub-divisions of the Western Coastal Plain.
The Northern Circars and the Coromandel Coast are parts of the Eastern Coastal Plain.
The coastal plains support a rich variety of flora and fauna due to their diverse ecosystems.
The coasts are highly fertile and known for the cultivation of crops like rice, coconut, and spices.
The Western Coastal Plain is more industrialized, with major ports like Mumbai, Goa, and Kochi.
The Eastern Coastal Plain has significant ports such as Chennai, Visakhapatnam, and Paradeep.
The coastal regions are prone to cyclones and storm surges, especially on the Eastern Coastal Plain.
India's coastline is approximately 7,516.6 kilometers long, including the mainland and islands.
The Sundarbans Delta, located on the Eastern Coast, is the world's largest delta and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The coastal plains are home to diverse marine ecosystems, including coral reefs and mangroves.
India has two main groups of islands: the Andaman and Nicobar Islands in the Bay of Bengal and the Lakshadweep Islands in the Arabian Sea.
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are volcanic in origin and located closer to Southeast Asia.
The Great Nicobar Island is the southernmost part of India.
The Andaman Islands are known for their tribal diversity, including the Jarwa and Sentinelese communities.
The Indira Point, located in the Great Nicobar Island, is the southernmost tip of India.
The Lakshadweep Islands are coral islands and consist of 36 small islands.
These islands are rich in marine biodiversity and are known for their coral reefs.
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands have a strategic location, providing India with a strong maritime presence.
The Andaman Sea and the Bay of Bengal support significant shipping routes.
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are part of the Indian Ocean Rim, linking trade between East and West.
Major economic activities in the coastal plains include fishing, tourism, and shipping.
The coastal plains are vulnerable to coastal erosion and rising sea levels due to climate change.
Several national parks and sanctuaries, such as the Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve, are located in these regions.
The Western Ghats contribute to heavy monsoon rainfall along the Malabar Coast.
The Eastern Coastal Plain receives less rainfall compared to the Western Coast, leading to semi-arid conditions in parts.
The coastal plains are densely populated due to their fertile lands and access to resources.
The Rameswaram Island, connected by the Pamban Bridge, is a significant religious site.
The Chilika Lake on the Eastern Coastal Plain is Asia's largest brackish water lagoon and a Ramsar site.
Both coastal plains are rich in oil and natural gas reserves, boosting India's energy resources.
The Sundarbans mangroves act as a natural barrier against cyclones and protect the coastline.
The Coral Islands are vital for marine biodiversity and tourism, attracting visitors for activities like scuba diving.
The coastal plains have a rich cultural heritage with influences from maritime trade and colonial history.
Ports along the coasts handle a significant portion of India's international trade.
The blue economy concept focuses on sustainable use of coastal and marine resources for economic growth.
The coastal plains host important wetlands that support migratory birds and local ecosystems.
The Andaman Trunk Road and Lakshadweep marine routes are vital for connectivity.
Efforts are underway to conserve the coastal regions through programs like the National Coastal Mission.
The marine resources of these regions contribute significantly to India's economy.
The Western Coastal Plain is a major center for cashew, pepper, and other spices production.
Both coastal plains play a crucial role in India's tourism industry, with beaches and cultural sites attracting visitors.
The coastal plains and islands are integral to India's geographical, economic, and cultural identity.