Study of Vulnerabilities and Capacities for Natural Coastal Hazards in Negombo, Sri Lanka

Abstract

Vulnerabilities and capacities for natural coastal hazards (Tsunami, Cyclone, Flooding, Sea level rise and Salt water intrusion) of selected GN divisions of Negombo, Sri Lanka were studied, estimated and gradient maps were prepared using the software Arch GIS. Descriptive qualitative research methods were mainly used to develop a data base under three categories: personal profile, capacity and vulnerability which was quantified to produce five personal profile indicators, PPI) , nine capacity indicators (Nano Capacity Indicators (NCI) and ten vulnerability indicators (Deca Vulnerability Indicators (DVI) respectively. Capacity and vulnerability ranking of selected GNs was carried out. Accordingly, Thalahena has the highest capacity strength and the second lowest vulnerability strength. Also, Kapungoda has the highest vulnerability strength with the lowest capacity strength. Unemployment rate of 18% and education level below ordinary level of 14%, were the two key factors to be addressed seriously in terms of enhancing capacities and decreasing vulnerabilities of Negombo DS. Providing information for policy developers is also important as lack of proper drainage system in Negombo DS was 96%, especially in proper land use planning and development. Statistical analysis revealed a moderate positive relationship between Infrastructure and Educational level, Technology vs Age Range,Cope up vs Age Range and Cope up vs Educational Level. A positive weak relationship between wealth vs Educational Level, Technology vs Educational Level and Information vs Status. And also a very weak negative relationship between Awareness vs Gender and a very weak positive relationship between Information vs Educational level and Institutional vs Educational level were identified.