Geospatial Analysis for Mangrove Forest Cover Changes and Afforestation Site Suitability in Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh, India

Mangrove woodlands are salt tolerant woodland eco system of intertidal zones along coastlines. These distinct coastal woodlands are among the most vulnerable habitats in the planet. Mangroves are declining due to climate change, industrial advancement; shrimp cultivation etc these destructions are caused only in south east Asia and Latin America. Mangrove Deforestation has numerous natural, social and economic consequences one of which is the loss of bio diversity. So there should be some urgent action to protect the mangrove timberlands. Remote sensing has the power to give spatially referenced data on the status of mangrove woodlands. This information can be obtained for broad regions simultaneously which is virtually impossible using traditional field survey methods. In addition, remote sensing empowers users to investigate areas which might be not accessible on the ground because a succession of images can be obtained at regular intervals remote sensing enables the possibility of monitoring ecosystem changes. By Utilizing this technology we can show the transformation of Mangrove woodland cover in a region and integrating distinctive thematic maps indicates us environmental conditions of particular area, and plantation site suitable of various species for plantation. The study concentrates on mangroves along the coast of Kakinada, India. The purpose of this research is to find changes in mangrove cover from past 20 years and also to find suitable locations where new mangrove sites can be developed. And this study also focuses on what human activity is responsible for the mangrove loss. And what environment and ecological damage is occurring due to mangrove loss. What are the disasters occurring due to mangrove loss. And by doing mangrove afforestation will it help livelihood for local people. The field work is crucial in acquiring the information and also for verification of work done on remote sensed data and this can be achieved by talking to people and experts for mangrove status and also by using G.P.S and by boat survey.