Investigation of Bolgoda lake to establish a ferry service for University of Moratuwa

Abstract

Colombo is one of the major cities which has a high population density with a smaller number of transportation facilities over many years. Even though it has a good canal system, waterway transportation is not implemented for no reason. With the idea of establishing a ferry service from the University of Moratuwa to Panadura along the Bolgoda lake, our research was carried out to determine the main parameters relevant to the aim of the project. Prioritise factors considered are Bolgoda lake bathymetry, identification of restricted areas, highly sensitive areas, material type to be dredged, and possible locations for terminals. Initially, the research area was narrowed down from the boatyard of the University of Moratuwa to the Vijayarama temple. There are several ways to determine the bathymetry of a water body, and echo-sounding techniques were used in our research. Bathymetry of the region was determined with cut volume to be dredged to make the ferry path safe using "Hondex PS 7" echo sounder and Surfer software. "ArcGIS" software was utilised to generate maps, and "Slope W" software was used in analysing dredge slope and its stability. The research was carried out during the dry season, and the water level was indicated as 4.2 m on the gauge at the bridge.