Abstract
This research aimed to apply the geospatial techniques and Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) approach to find vulnerable areas in terms of flooding in the Neluwa area, Sri Lanka. The study incorporated nine relevant criteria for the vulnerability classification under three sub-criteria; the built environment, physical environment, and socio-economic environment. Under the built environment, road networks and buildings were chosen as sub-criteria. The Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), slope, elevation, water bodies, and stream density were taken as physical criteria. Land use and population density were considered as socio-economic criteria. All the criteria are set correctly in raster data, and their contents were well adduced. The study consisted of the use of different levels of criteria and combinations of different processes. The analytical results reveal that 14.24% and 30.24% of the total area are at a very-high risk and high risk for flooding, respectively. Only 5.17% of the land was classified as a risk-free area. Eastern, central, and western divisions of the study area are highly vulnerable to floods due to their low slopes. Based on the produced maps, the spatial extents and levels of risk were systematically identified. Data obtained through qualitative judgments related to the field were validated based on the approach used. The potential of this approach is effective in assessing the spatial vulnerability of these flood-affected areas. Using such criteria and a model-based approach will be constructive in identifying different flood scenarios and in providing a remunerative guideline for potential anticipatory measures and better land-based planning in the area.