Policy review and suggestions for improvements to coastal structures in Sri Lanka : a case study in Kirinda and Hikkaduwa Areas | |
| Author | Pemasiri, Darshani Tharanga |
| Call Number | AIT Thesis no.NR-04-01 |
| Subject(s) | Coastal zone management--Sri Lanka Environmental protection--Sri Lanka |
| Note | A thesis submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science, School of Environment, Resources and Development |
| Publisher | Asian Institute of Technology |
| Series Statement | Thesis ; no. NR-04-01 |
| Abstract | Sri Lanka is blessed with a scenic, diverse and resource rich coastal area. Many people depend on these resources for their livelihoods. Coastal Structures, one of the most important parts of the coastal region, are strongly connected with local people's usual live pattern and livelihoods. Due to mal-function of these structures, people are severely affected because their properties and livelihoods are under threat. Nevertheless, coastal habitats, scenic and historical sites are also affected by adverse impact of coastal structures. Having identified this issue and few other critical issues, Coast Conservation Department, initiated the Coastal Zone Management Plan (CZMP) in 1990. The management tools brought by CZMP, address these issues in efficient manner. However, still some implementation gaps and scope for further improvements can be identified in policy documents, especially in the issue of coastal structures. The study was conducted in Southern province of Sri Lanka, Kirinda and Hikkaduwa. Kirinda has a fishery harbor. Hikkaduwa has a series of coastal protection structures. The environmental and socio-economic problems caused by mal-function coastal structures were detected through household surveys. Factors that had been neglected in designing of existing structures, and that, to be considered in designing of future structures have been revealed through the study. Integration of indigenous knowledge together with engineering knowledge is highlighted throughout the study. In addition, the existing policies prevailing on coastal structures are reviewed against selected evaluation criteria for its sufficiency. In order to design a coastal structure in its optimum performance, which satisfies the environmental, social and economic aspects, it is essential to follow comprehensive coastal engineering management approach. It is the responsibility of coastal engineers as coastal managers, to implement this concept more robustly for the betterment of Coastal Zone Management in future. |
| Year | 2004 |
| Corresponding Series Added Entry | Asian Institute of Technology. Thesis ; no. NR-04-01 |
| Type | Thesis |
| School | School of Advanced Technologies (SAT) |
| Department | Department of Development and Sustainability (DDS) |
| Academic Program/FoS | Natural Resources Management (NRM) |
| Chairperson(s) | Shivakoti, Ganesh P.; |
| Examination Committee(s) | Sutat Weesakul; Shipin, Oleg V.; Gautam, Ambika P. ; |
| Scholarship Donor(s) | Government of Netherlands;Asian Institute of Technology Fellowship; |
| Degree | Thesis (M.Sc.) - Asian Institute of Technology, 2004 |