News
Study suggested for Dehiwala-Mount Lavinia coast damage
View(s):The coastal belt between Dehiwala and Mount Lavinia has been badly damaged by heavy coastal erosion. And among the most heavily affected is the area near the Kinross Club.
Coconut trees have toppled, and buildings built near the beach are crumbling as the sand beneath buildings has washed away.
Jehan Peiris, a PADI Master Scuba Diver Trainer and BSAC Open Water Instructor, has been diving since 1973 in the area. He says he has seen significant changes along the coast as well as underwater in and around the coral reefs and shipwrecks off Colombo. The water and marine conditions have changed.
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Buildings on the brink, and some washed away
“Water energy seems unpredictable, the currents unusual, perhaps due to changes around the coastline. Also considering the status globally with drift pattern changes and weather pattern changes, global warming and many other factors that have affected the ocean and marine life in Colombo, the water seems more turbid than what it was decades ago,’’ he said.
Mr Peris is also appealing to the youth to be involved.
“In this case, to re-survey and research in detail what we can collectively do to remedy the situation we face, sea erosion is certainly something to research, and we could look at how we could counter it,” he said.
He had heard of suggestions about artificial reefs and barriers as well as mangrove patches along the coastline. He appealed to the youth to come up with ideas and strategies.
The Department of Coast Conservation and Coastal Resource Management said it is involved in short-term solutions, but data are needed to frame long-term solutions.
The Department’s Director General, Prof. T.B. Turney Pradeep Kumara, said the sea erosion in Dehiwala and Mount Lavinia is seasonal, so sandbags will be placed temporarily.
He said that for a long-term solution, a science-based approach is needed along with a comprehensive scientific study. Data and environmental assessments are needed regarding actions taken to reduce sea erosion.
Studies can be done, but there are no funds, he said.
He welcomed educating the youth of the prevailing situation and getting them involved in finding solutions, but before that, the scientific approach should be taken.
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