The Impact of coastal erosion on Dwellers in the vicinity of the zone: The case study of the Kalu Ganga Estuary

Abstract

Accented Coastal erosion has become the main environment a problem around. Many people around the world suffer from coastal erosion. The objective of this research is to identify the impact of coastal erosion on the life of people. The study area selected for the above research is the Kalutara North Grama Niladhari Division situated near the Kalu Ganga estuary. Data were collected through questionnaires from 30 randomly selected individuals. This information was also verified through a field study and group interviews. The Google Earth Pro was used to highlight the timely changes in localities. Tables, charts, and maps are presented using software such as MS Excel, Geographic Information System (GIS) to analyze the above information. The major cause of this problem is the estuary extensive enlargement of flood control, but the sand mining of the Kalu Ganga may not be sufficient to create a natural dune, and the operation of the sea waves also a reason for this issue. According to the data analysis, it has been identified that there is a huge impact on the lives of people living in the Kalu Ganga estuary. 70% of those surveyed identified that fishing and tourism had a major impact. Thus According to minimize the aforementioned impact on these people, they need to create other employment opportunities. The rules to reduce coastal erosion should be strengthened and the public should be made aware of these issues.