724 / 2024-09-19 10:21:35

EVALUATING COASTAL VEGETATION LINE POST-BREAKWATER CONSTRUCTION: A CASE STUDY IN TERENGGANU

Coas,Coastal vegetation,Shoreline change,Nature,Coast

Coastal erosion has long been a critical issue along the Terengganu coast, particularly in Kuala Nerus, where both natural processes and human activities have contributed to shoreline changes. In response, the construction of coastal protection structures, such as breakwaters, has led to notable geomorphological shifts, including the formation of tombolos due to sediment transport. These newly formed landforms have facilitated the growth of coastal vegetation, exemplifying a complex interaction between human interventions and natural processes. This study assessed the dynamics of the coastal vegetation line following breakwater construction, focusing on how human-sea interactions shaped ecosystem development. Utilizing drone surveys and satellite imagery, the coastal vegetation line was monitored over time, while shoreline changes and sediment accumulation patterns were analyzed using the Digital Shoreline Analysis System (DSAS) from 2012 - 2022. Preliminary findings indicate a significant increase in coastal vegetation cover, particularly with the expansion in areas sheltered by the breakwaters. As expected results, the research highlights (1) how human-engineered structures and natural vegetation synergize to enhance coastal resilience (2) the effectiveness of breakwaters in supporting both sediment retention and vegetation growth (3) the importance of buffer zone in coastal planning. These findings contribute to the development of integrated nature-based solutions and artificial infrastructure, offering a sustainable and adaptive framework for coastal erosion mitigation.