The Bay of Bengal is the northeastern part of the Indian Ocean, bounded on the west and northwest by India, on the north by Bangladesh, and on the east by Myanmar and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Here are some detailed aspects about the bay:
Geography
- The bay spans an area of approximately 2,172,000 square kilometers.
- It is bordered by the Himalayan Mountains to the north, which feed into the rivers that flow into the bay.
- Its depth varies, with the deepest point being the Swatch of No-Ground, reaching over 2,600 meters.
History
Environmental and Climatic Conditions
- The bay is known for its monsoon-influenced climate, with significant seasonal variations in wind and sea conditions.
- It experiences frequent cyclones, especially during the pre-monsoon and post-monsoon periods.
- The Bay of Bengal hosts a unique marine ecosystem, including coral reefs, mangroves, and several endangered species.
Economic and Strategic Importance
- The bay supports major ports like Kolkata Port (formerly known as Calcutta Port) in India and Chittagong Port in Bangladesh, playing a vital role in international trade.
- It's rich in natural gas reserves, particularly around the Andaman Sea.
- The region is also critical for fisheries, with countries like Sri Lanka and India relying heavily on its resources for livelihood and food security.
Challenges
- Environmental degradation due to pollution from industrial, agricultural, and urban sources is a major concern.
- Climate change impacts, including rising sea levels and increased cyclone frequency, pose threats to coastal communities.
- Maritime security is another issue, with piracy and smuggling being prevalent in some areas.
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See Also