coastal districts

Andhra Pradesh is bracing for intensified rainfall as a low-pressure area is predicted to form over the Bay of Bengal around May 12. Thunderstorms with lightning and gusty winds are expected in coastal Andhra Pradesh, Yanam, and Rayalaseema. While maximum temperatures slightly dropped, humid conditions persist, causing discomfort.

Kovalam, a coastal constituency in Thiruvananthapuram, faces challenges like erosion, flooding, and unemployment despite its tourism economy. The UDF's M. Vincent won the 2021 election, highlighting persistent issues such as water scarcity, healthcare strain, and waste management that impact its residents and development.

Nattika, a Kerala constituency reserved for Scheduled Castes, remains an LDF stronghold, consistently electing CPI candidates. With a strong focus on fisherfolk welfare and coastal development, the seat has seen CPI victories since 2011. As the 2026 elections approach, Nattika faces challenges from UDF and BJP, with sea erosion and marine livelihoods expected to be key election issues.

A.K.M. Ashraf of the Indian Union Muslim League secured a decisive victory in the 2026 Kerala Assembly election for the Manjeshwar constituency, winning by 29,252 votes. This northernmost constituency, known for its diverse voter base and proximity to Karnataka, has historically seen close contests, making it a politically sensitive battleground.

Varkala, a Kerala constituency known for its cliffs and tourism, faces significant challenges including coastal erosion, urban flooding, and youth unemployment. The incumbent MLA, V. Joy of CPI(M), won the 2021 election by a considerable margin. For the upcoming 2026 polls, key candidates include V. Joy CPI(M), Varkala Kahar (INC), and Adv.

In Kerala's Parassala, CPI(M)'s C K Hareendran secured victory with 69,149 votes, defeating INC's Neyyattinkara Sanal by a margin of 15,013 votes. The constituency, characterized by its coastal border economy, faces challenges including coastal erosion, youth unemployment, and infrastructure deficits.

Chirayinkeezhu, a coastal-rural Kerala constituency, faces critical challenges ahead of the 2026 polls. Incumbent CPI MLA V. Sasi's victory in 2021 highlights a strong LDF presence. Key issues like coastal erosion, flooding, poor connectivity, youth unemployment, and infrastructure gaps are shaping the electoral landscape for candidates from CPI, INC, and BJP.

In Kerala's Kollam, INC's Adv Bindhu Krishna secured a victory over CPI(M)'s S Jayamohan by 16,830 votes. This urban-coastal constituency faces significant challenges including coastal erosion, flooding, youth unemployment, and infrastructure deficits, impacting its LDF-won economy.

In Eravipuram, RSP candidate Adv. Vishnu Mohan secured victory over CPI(M)'s M. Noushad by a margin of 8,803 votes. The constituency faces challenges including coastal erosion, flooding, and youth unemployment. Water supply issues and inadequate public transport also impact the region. These factors shape the political landscape of this coastal area.

Radhapuram, a coastal rural constituency in Tamil Nadu's Tirunelveli district, is represented by DMK's M Appavu, who won the 2021 elections. The area, known for agriculture and fishing, faces challenges including irrigation shortages, coastal erosion, and unemployment. Key issues also encompass rural electrification, healthcare, and improved road connectivity.

Kodungallur, a Kerala constituency, has a history of shifting political allegiances between Congress and CPI(M). Facing challenges like monsoon flooding, youth unemployment, and coastal environmental issues, residents are keen on development projects including river management and improved fisheries. The current MLA, E T Taison of CPI(M), secured a significant victory in 2021, highlighting the ongoing political dynamics.