Treats on Coastal Belt

 

Sea erosion has today become one of the grave problems for Sri Lanka. Our country is an island surrounded by the Indian Ocean. There are many miles of corals near the coast line in the sea. Although, coral reefs are beautiful, they are very dangerous because, many verieties of poisonous creatures live in and around the coral reefs. Local as well as foreign tourists come to the South Hikkaduwa which is famous for coral reefs. These coral reefs are near the coast line and protect beaches from pounding waves. Where there are reefs beaches are safe. Corals help protect natural vegetations and coconut plantation in the beach. When there are no reefs and beaches are narrow the land is in danger. Here natural vegetation and plantation are destroyed.In certain places not only houses but also whole villages are completely destroyed. So we must protect our beautiful beaches and coral reefs. However, fishermen and tourists who come from other countries break these nice corals. They want to sell or to take their home these coral reefs. Shore dwellers who are careless, break corals and make lime and cement. As a result, coral reefs are getting destroyed gradually. It helps stop sea erosion and washing away beaches and lands. In certain places such as Hikkaduwa and Beruwela sea erosion is very serious today. The government spends a lot of money to protect the beaches. If breaking of reefs is not stopped soon it will lead to many serious problems. Therefore, it is our duty to protect the corals and reefs.