Settlement Distribution and Coastal Vulnerability in the Andaman Islands: A Spatial Analysis

Abstract

The Andaman Islands, located in the Bay of Bengal, represent one of India’s most hazard-prone coastal environments. Their proximity to the Andaman–Sumatra subduction zone exposes them to recurrent seismic activity, tsunamis, and coastal flooding. This study employs Geographic Information System (GIS) techniques to analyse the spatial distribution of settlements and to assess coastal vulnerability. Using open-source datasets, including digital elevation models (DEM), tsunami event points, population density, and built-up areas, multi-hazard vulnerability maps were generated. Buffer zones of 500 m, 1 km, and 2 km were created around tsunami points to represent varying degrees of risk, while elevation data below 10 m were classified as highly susceptible. The overlay of these datasets reveals that several major settlements, particularly around Port Blair, fall within critical hazard zones. The results emphasise the essential role of GIS in disaster preparedness, coastal planning, and building resilient island communities.