Riverbank Erosion in the Bengal Delta : An Integrated Perspective

This book discusses the issue of riverbank erosion and its associated causes, risks and social challenges in the Bengal Delta. The book covers the physical processes and indicators of riverbank erosion such as sediment flux and channel morphology, the anthropogenic and natural causes of erosion, the social consequences that afflict vulnerable communities who depend on the delta for their livelihoods, and potential solutions to harmful erosion processes such as bioengineering methods and increased community governance through a socio-hydrological approach. Though the Bengal Delta is one of the most populated regions in the world, few publications exist that discuss riverbank erosion as a major threat to environmental and livelihood sustainability in a comprehensive manner. The book will fill this gap in research for students and researchers in geography and environmental sciences, and will engage regional planners, decision makers and policy makers to further their understanding of the complex social and environmental aspects of the Bengal Delta associated with persistent and worsening riverbank erosion.