Why Do Major Cities Thrive Along Coasts Despite Natural Disasters?

The abundance of resources and transportation makes coastal cities appealing, even despite natural disasters more prevalent in these areas. Rivers and seas have served as natural pathways for trade, linking interior regions with the outside world since ancient times. This article explores why cities are established along coasts, examining historical and contemporary factors that influence such decisions.

Resources and Transportation

The resources available in coastal cities are diverse and abundant. The ocean provides a rich variety of foods, including sea creatures, as well as fertile land for cultivation of plants. This abundance supports the local population and boosts economic activity through trade.

Transportation by water has long been the most efficient method to move goods and people. Rivers and seas serve as natural highways, enhancing the ease of trade and communication between regions. Major cities are often found where these rivers meet the sea, facilitating both domestic and international trade.

The Historical Context

When the cities were established, the only available means of transportation were ships. This made ports the logical choice for setting up cities. They could transport goods to interior regions upstream, though this required significant effort and resources. Thus, they were often established at the nearest port facilities, ensuring the ease of access to the sea and subsequent expansion.

Trade Routes and Economy

Major cities come up on major trade routes. Seaborne trade has historically been larger and more prominent than overland trade. This led to the development of major ports, which became centers for trade and commerce, eventually evolving into major cities.

Urban Development and Modern Protection

Today, coastal cities are more protected against major natural disasters such as cyclones and tsunamis. For example, Chennai's long coastline offers a unique setting for diving and snorkeling, but it is not frequently utilized. Many inhabitants, especially those living in inland areas, have a fear of water, which is somewhat paradoxical given the modern protection and benefits of coastal living.

India's experience with natural disasters highlights this paradox. While coastal regions face some risks, the majority of the country's casualties from flooding occur in interior areas like Bihar and Assam. Modern cities are equipped with infrastructure that mitigates the risks of natural disasters, whereas poverty, hunger, and lack of proper healthcare pose far greater threats to daily life.

Advantages of Coastal Cities

Coastal cities offer a myriad of advantages, including:

Access to the Outside World: Coastal cities provide direct access to the global market through their ports. Commerce and Jobs: Their harbors bring in a significant amount of commerce and create numerous employment opportunities. Fish as a Source of Food: Abundant fish supply is a significant food source for coastal communities. Industrial Placement: Industries prefer to locate near ports where they can import materials, fabricate products, and export them. Weather and Entertainment: Coastal cities benefit from moderated weather and numerous entertainment options due to the ocean.

Given these advantages, it is understandable why cities continue to thrive and develop along coasts, even in the face of potential natural disasters.

In conclusion, the combination of abundant resources, efficient transportation, historical trade routes, modern protection measures, and numerous advantages makes coastal cities a preferred location for urban development despite the challenges posed by natural disasters.