Abstract:
Coastal erosion is an environmental issue that has been aggravated by
anthropogenic activities, leading to a worrying situation in the coastal zones of Sri
Lanka in recent decades. The present study attempted to determine the community
perception and awareness of coastal erosion in the South Eastern coastal region
around Oluvil, Sri Lanka. 120 residents of Oluvil were selected following a
random sampling method to conduct a survey using a structured questionnaire in
2020. The survey results revealed that 95% of the residents were aware of the
coastal erosion while 50% were extremely concerned about it, particularly because
it has worsened over the last 10 years. Awareness was significantly correlated with
the level of education of the residents. About 77% of residents noted that coastal
erosion in the last ten years had rapidly increased. Construction of the Oluvil
fishery harbour was believed to be the major cause of coastal erosion in Oluvil,
with 81% of respondents strongly agreeing in this regard. Further, 88% of
residents believed that the existing conservation measures were not providing
effective protection from coastal erosion. Many of the affected people had
suggested permanent closure of the harbour as a measure to address coastal
erosion. Knowledge and awareness about conservation measures to control coastal
erosion were limited. It is suggested to provide adequate knowledge and awareness
through training, workshops, and campaigns in future to protect their livelihoods
and the local economy from the effects of coastal erosion. The findings of the
study would be helpful to the responsible authorities and government to adopt
appropriate measures to minimize the impacts of coastal erosion in Oluvil.
