SPONGE COLLABORATIVE +
WEAVING WITH WATER Team
MULLASSERY CANAL FRAMEWORK AND CANAL EDGE MASTERPLAN
Stretch G - Canal Mouth
Figure 67: Section showing living coastal edge scenario (Image Credit: Weaving with Water team)
The widening of the canal near its mouth includes softening the edge to build resilience towards sea-level rise and sea water intrusion. Rather than a hard seawall which reduces the biodiversity of the area, a living shoreline is proposed to tackle climate change risks, including coastal erosion and saltwater intrusion. The quality of the living shoreline to adapt to the seasons is effective in nurturing an ecosystem which needs less maintenance and can reduce the impacts of extreme climate events. Breakwaters with rocks and local coir are proposed to effectively reduce the force of the water before reaching the shoreline, thus reducing the impact of erosion. The living shoreline is envisaged as a recreational realm, with decks and open spaces for people to interact. Opportunities - The canal mouth when developed in a holistic manner with Priyadarshini Park and Marine Drive has the potential to be transformed as a key biodiversity hotspot. The project will also bring in more visibility to the entire canal and present it as a punctuated landmark that prioritizes people and ecology. Constraint - The development of design layout and detailed specifications can be done only with site-specific information on water table, tidal action, soil condition, water levels, and the influence of other geographic features. The section has to be worked out in a conscious manner so as to avoid any negative impact on the site ecology. The intervention along the marine drive that influences the current coastal line, will require insights and approvals from multiple agencies which can both strengthen and delay the process.
