• Source:JND

Marine Drive Stones:  Have you ever walked along Mumbai's famous Marine Drive or heard about it? You might have been aware of the well-known humongous Tetrapod-Like rocks lined up along the seashore at Marine Drive. However, what are they? The hint is that they are not mere random stones, and they don't even look like usual stones. To your surprise, these stones on Marine Drive play a very essential role. Let's take a look and find out why these giant stones exist.

Why Are There Stones on Marine Drive?

The Stones On Marine Drive Are For Several Reasons:

1.  To Prevent Erosion:  The Arabian Sea is rising at the Marine Drive all the time. In the absence of protection, the waves would slowly wear away the land and even destroy the road. These stones work as a cushion, dissipating the energy of the waves before they hit the shore.

2.  Wave Energy Absorption:  The stones are particularly designed like tetrapods or concrete blocks so that waves do not just rebound back to the sea but break up on contact. This breaks the general energy of the waves and doesn't allow flooding to take place.

3.  Anti-Flooding During Monsoons:  Mumbai is hit by heavy monsoon rains every year, and they usually come with high tides. During times like these, the sea can show tendencies to push water onto the roads. These gigantic stones stop water from splashing directly onto Marine Drive, making it comparatively safer for pedestrians and vehicles.

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4.  Longevity of the Promenade:  Marine Drive was constructed during the 1920s and has stood as one of the well-known spots in the city for ages. The stones ensure their integrity lasts for decades by shielding the foundations from the sometimes deadly sea.

5.  Adding Beauty With Purpose:  The stones are purely there for functional reasons. However, over time, these stones have become an inseparable part of Marine Drive’s whole vibe. Mumbaikars and tourists sit at Marine Drive on these gigantic stones to enjoy the heartwarming sunsets, making them a silent but vital part of the city’s charm.

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Therefore, stones at Marine Drive are unsung guardians of Mumbai, protecting the city of dreamers from erosion, floods, and wave damage while quietly adding charm to the city’s popular Marine Drive.