**2.1 Geology and geomorphology**

The geology of hinter land consists of Quaternary alluvium, laterites and Triassic sandstones. The Precambrian Basement gneisses, amphibolites and

**Figure 2.** *Geomorphology of the study area.*

migmatised pelitic schists are observed. Above these rocks recent alluvial sediments are deposited [14]. The coastal stretch, for some extent is rigorous and laterally compacted by sand. The total area is noticeable with different geomorphological features like asymmetrical sandbars/sand dunes, salt affected lands, mud flats, mangroves, aquaculture ponds etc., (**Figure 2**). The coastal fringe shows dendritic to subdendritic drainage patterns.
