Let us see what is a barrier island, and why Sriharikota is chosen for rocket launch by ISRO.
By definition, a barrier island is a long broad sandy island lying parallel to a shore that is built up by the action of waves, currents, and winds and that protects the shore from the effects of the ocean.
Barrier islands include sandy beaches, forests, and marshes on the bayside. Despite the volatility of this coastal environment, plants and animals, including rare and endangered species, make their home on barrier islands.
Let us find out why Sriharikota is chosen to launch rockets by ISRO.
Sriharikota is located in Andhra Pradesh. It is a barrier island, off the coast of Bay of Bengal, where ISRO's rockets are launched. Now, the reason why Sriharikota is chosen to launch rockets is because it is located nearer to the equator. Near the equator there is an additional velocity, and the rocket launched from the east - coast gets benefited from it.
Since the launching of a rocket also involves a lot of risk, it is imperative that the area must not be inhabited, should there be any accidents.
One more reason is that it is accessible by land, water, and air, which makes it easier to transport the heavy equipment needed.
To know more, click here: Why-are-all-satellites-and-missiles-launched-from-the-east-coast