Beach Profile Analysis of Moheshkhali Island to Develop Marine Spatial Planning: Planning for Blue Economy

Abstract

This research discusses the work on beach or coastal profiling done to develop marine spatial planning (MSP) methodology at Moheshkhali Island that will use the systems approach to use the beach area for economic development. Survey transects following shore normal from the dune to the low water line are commonly used to monitor beach profile. Coastal and beach monitoring studies and management processes benefit from the information provided by beach profiles. A systematic measurement of variations in vertical elevation obtained by reading two graduated rods connected via a water-filled hose pipe is employed. This method yields valuable data for evaluating whether a shoreline is experiencing erosion or accretion. The work was done as a part of the coastal and ocean area management at Moheshkhali in Bangladesh. The broad objective of the research was to formulate a framework and necessary recommendation for developing marine spatial planning for the sensitive coastal zones. Identifying the critical variables in each of the sampling stations and developing the beach profile was the basic step towards formulating the MSP framework. The approaches and instruments that could be used to complete the tasks were examined. It was found from the sampling stations that all the seven places have three distinguished beach characteristics, that is, gentle slope at Modirchara, Safiapur, Uttar Nalbila, and Matarbari Coal Power Plant; moderately steep slope was found at Matarbari station; and sharp steep slope was found at Shoroitola station. The identification of the coastal profile will complement the initiative to develop MSP approach at Moheshkhali Island. This paper discusses the ways and mentions the approach to develop and implement the MSP process for better management of ocean areas.