Abstract:
Flood is the most frequently experienced natural hazard in Sri Lanka that can affect the socio-economic
status of the number of communities living in flood-prone areas in the country. Kaluganga (River Kalu)
valley is situated in the wet climatic zone of Sri Lanka which experience severe monsoon rainfall. The
lower valley of Kaluganga is highly prone to frequent flash floods. Villagers living in GN Divisions in
lower valley of Kaluganga have been facing number of socio-economic problems due to these frequent
floods. Adaption to frequent floods is highly essential and a challenging issue. A study was conducted
to explore the magnitude of the socio-economic impacts caused by floods and the manner in which the
villages adapt themselves to the situation. Paraduwa and Diyagama GN divisions situated in lower
valley of Kaluganga are the most affected areas. Therefore Paraduwa and Diyagama GN Divisions were
selected as study area for this study. 90 households out of 613 families in these two GN Divisions were
selected as the sample by using simple random sampling technique. A household survey was conducted
using structured questionnaires and the data was analyzed qualitatively and simple statistical parameters
were used. It was revealed that, seasonal floods directly affect the household of the above mentioned
GN Divisions. According to the socio-economic assessment, 79% of the people are employed as
labourers in sectors such as sand mining (45%), masonry (27%), rubber industry(12%), carpentry(8%)
and related industries and most of the people are engaged in agriculture. Damages to agricultural
activities and damages to their houses and working places are crucial issues. Results showed high
adaptation in terms of housing construction measures, moderate adaptation for crop adjustments and
protection of valuables while low adaptation in keeping boats. There are number of social problems
faced by the villages such as insecurity, spreading of diseases, disturbances to education of children and
mental depression. Deterioration of water quality and sanitation facilities are also serious problems. It
can be concluded that villages should further strengthen to enhance their adaptation capacity as well as
to overcome above mentioned problems faced by them during the times of floods
