A Study on River Mouth Dynamics of Pennar Estuary , East coast of India: A Geospatial Approach

The Pennar estuary, located on the east coast of India, represents a crucial ecological and geomorphic region. This study undertakes a comprehensive analysis of its river mouth dynamics over a decade, spanning from 2013 to 2022, employing a geospatial approach. Utilizing a combination of multi temporal satellite imagery, specifically Landsat 8 OLI/TIRS data, the research offers insights into the temporal variations of erosion and accretion processes. Key influencing factors such as river inflow patterns, wind dynamics, tidal movements, and littoral currents are examined to understand their impact on the estuarine geomorphology. The findings reveal significant fluctuations in both erosion and accretion rates over the study period. Interestingly, the findings underscore a prevalent trend between 2013 and 2022, wherein accretion consistently surpassed erosion rates. Furthermore, the study underscores the importance of integrating geospatial tools with traditional hydrological and geological methods for a holistic understanding of estuarine dynamics. The insights derived provide valuable information for coastal zone management and sustainable development along the Pennar estuary.