Ecology, Environment and Conservation Paper

DECEMBER 26TH, 2004 TSUNAMI STRUCTURAL AND GEOTECHNICAL DAMAGES IN THE DISTRICTS OF CUDDALORE AND NAGAPATTINAM EAST COAST OF TAMIL NADU, INDIA

K. Ayyappan and K. Thiruvenkatasamy

Abstract

This paper presents an overview of structural and geotechnical damages in east coastal region of Tamil Nadu due to December 26, 2004 tsunami. The tsunami hit Indian coastal region; it severely damaged the Cuddalore and Nagapattinam coastal area. Damages are mostly involved to structural and geotechnical aspects, damages of brick masonry and concrete roof structures, damage to compound walls, collapse of adobe houses, damage to bridge structure and damage to road. It was observed that there was significant damage to roads and lifeline structures. This study analyzes the various damages caused by tsunami. Further, this paper discusses about causes of damage and remedial measures to avoid those in the future.