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Beach Erosion and lagoon dynamics in Mauritius

Conference Paper · October 2013

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2 authors:

Olivier Pasnin Dass Bissessur

Stellenbosch University Department for Continental Shelf and Maritime Zones Administration and Exploration
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 Beach erosion and lagoon dynamics in Mauritius
O.Pasnin1 & Dr D.Bissessur
Mauritius Oceanography Institute, Quatre-Bornes, Mauritius
1Email: o.pasnin@moi.intnet.mu

Introduction
Beach erosion is a generalized
phenomenon which affects
more than 70% of the sandy
coastline in the world. In
Mauritius it is gaining more and
more concern due to the 2005 2012
economic importance of coastal
tourism. Previous studies have
shown that beach erosion and
coastline retreat have become a
major problem to the island.

2013
2011

What we propose?
Current pattern
Beach profiling Habitat cover

Profile 1 - Mont Choisy

6

5
Height variation to horizon / m

4
Dec-11
3
Mar-12
2 Jul-12

1 HWM

0
0 10 20 30 40 50 60
Distance/m

The results of the three studies proposed above are displayed on a GIS layer for a more comprehensive understanding of the
erosion phenomenon. The analysis, interpretation and monitoring of the beach-lagoon system interaction will be completed by
adding available data of the bathymetry of the lagoon and of the state and evolution of the reef-lagoon ecosystem. The output
will enable the decision makers to take the most appropriate decisions in managing and monitoring the beach-lagoon areas in
accordance with the economic development of the Republic of Mauritius.

Conclusion
The project addresses the issue of beach erosion, which is not a one time/one period effect. Erosion is a consequence of the
variability of our environment; and since the environment is continuously evolving, the issue needs to be continuously
monitored. Consequently this project is meant to continue with a regular monitoring of the state of the beaches and lagoons, and
be extended to other regions in the Republic of Mauritius.
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