Coastal Odisha Systematics Mapping, Monitoring and Observations for Sustainable Development

Institution: Indian Institute of Technology Bhubaneswar

Department: School of Earth, Ocean & Climate Sciences

Coordinator: Dr. Syed Hilal Farooq

Co-Investigators

• Dr. Raj Kumar Singh
• Dr. Debadatta Swain
• Dr. Y. K. Singh
• Dr. Ashim Sattar
• Dr. Bankim Chandra Mahanta
• Dr. Soumyashree Debasis Sahoo
• Dr. Dipanjan Dey

Objectives

• Comprehensive mapping and monitoring of Odisha's coastal marine bioresources
• Assessment of ecosystem health at key bioreserve hotspots along Odisha's coastline
• Skill development, knowledge sharing, and capacity building

Key Deliverables

• Digitally mapped inventory of Odisha's coastal and submerged bioresources within 5 km on either side of the coastline
• Interactive high-resolution maps for planners, researchers, and conservation agencies
• Baseline dataset on coastal biodiversity including hotspot identification and carbon sequestration potential
• Standard sampling protocols and user-friendly instruments for underwater sediment and water sample collection
• Documentation of submerged bioresources through underwater photography and expert identification
• Policy-ready report on ecosystem health and climate mitigation potential of Odisha's coast
• Workshops, hands-on training modules, and technical support for capacity building and policy formulation