Synthesis of Coastal Processes in Southwest Coast of Sri Lanka

Abstract

The main objective of this paper is to identify the factors contributing in changing

the beach morphology in the Southwest coast of Sri Lanka. Data collected on 16

selected variables, which are directly related to the coastal processes along the

Southwest coast of Sri Lanka. Measurements have been taken from 50 locations

along the Southwest coast from Colombo to Matara with intervals of two miles

distance. Collected data has been analyzed by using following statistical methods:

(i) correlation methods and (ii) Principal Component Analysis.

The analysis of data clearly revealed that the main factors contributing to change

are (1) the depth of the shore (2) beach angle and (3) width of the beach of the

Southwest coast of Sri Lanka.