How will a 300-metre retaining wall improve year-round fishing access?

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A 300-metre retaining wall will improve year-round fishing access by stabilising the Sungai Tering estuary and ensuring consistent navigability.

The construction of a 300-metre-long river bank retaining wall is a key component of the beach erosion control project at Kampung Tanjung Batu, Nenasi. Its primary purpose is to address the shallowness of the Sungai Tering estuary, thereby ensuring that local fishermen can access the sea consistently throughout the year. This intervention is designed to counteract the natural processes that lead to estuary silting and erosion, which can impede fishing operations.
Stabilising the River Bank and Managing Water Depth

The retaining wall functions by providing structural support to the river bank, preventing further erosion and sediment runoff into the estuary. By creating a more stable boundary, the wall helps to maintain a consistent depth within the estuary. This is crucial because natural fluctuations in tides, currents, and rainfall can cause sediment to accumulate, leading to shallower water that makes it difficult for boats to navigate. The engineering principle behind such a wall involves using robust materials, such as large stones for the base and outer layers, to withstand water pressure and scour, thereby preserving the designed depth of the waterway.
Mitigating Challenges for Fishermen

Historically, shallow estuaries present significant challenges for fishermen. During certain periods, particularly after heavy rainfall or during low tide cycles, the water depth in the Sungai Tering estuary can become insufficient for fishing vessels to pass through without grounding. This can lead to delays in setting out to sea, difficulties in returning, and in some cases, damage to boats that are pushed aground. The issue has been particularly acute for the nearly 30 fishermen in the area, who have experienced situations where they had to push their boats back to shore, directly impacting their livelihoods and income.
Ensuring All-Year-Round Access

The primary benefit of the retaining wall, therefore, is the establishment of a reliable navigation channel. By stabilising the estuary's edge and preventing infill, the wall contributes to the overall deepening and maintenance of the required water depth. This consistent navigability ensures that fishermen are not constrained by tidal conditions or seasonal sedimentation, allowing them to depart for and return from their fishing grounds without hindrance, regardless of the time of year. The project also includes deepening the estuary to a depth of 1.5 metres, further enhancing its usability for marine traffic.

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How will a 300-metre retaining wall improve year-round fishing access?

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