The Libyan coast extending between Ras Al-Zour in Tripoli and Ras Al-Masn in Al-Khums: Among the manifestations of its modern geomorphological dynamism during the period from 1965 to 2015

Abstract

The Libyan coast, stretching from Ras ez-Zor in Tripoli to Ras al-Masin in Al-Khums, is undergoing dynamic geomorphological changes. These changes are the result of physical and chemical interactions caused by wave energy, ocean currents, and wind on the rock formations, leading to spatial alterations in the coastline. The region has also seen various engineering projects that have inevitably impacted the coastal environment. This research aims to investigate the repercussions of these interventions. The research aims to identify recent dynamic geomorphological changes and their associated risks, employing a descriptive analytical approach and field observations supported by photographs and illustrative maps. Today we face numerous risks associated with human activities aimed at achieving economic benefits through the establishment of infrastructure projects, many of which are characterized by their haphazard nature. This has negatively impacted the coastline, increased its erosion and degradation rates, and exposed these projects themselves to deterioration. Among these activities are ports, tourist facilities, the exploitation of beach sands, and summer residences built at the expense of beach dunes. This has narrowed the natural space for marine physical movement, thus affecting the position of the coastline in terms of change or stability. Changes in the position of the coastline were monitored from 1965 to 2015 using remote sensing (RS), geographic information systems (GIS), and field indicators to determine current morphological dynamics. Maps and diagrams were obtained by comparing aerial photographs from 1965 with Google Earth satellite imagery from 2015 over a period of more than 50 years, illustrating the coastline's position. Generally, the coastal areas whose dynamics were studied exhibit imbalances in sedimentary balance, with signs of degradation due to various factors. These factors have led to increased susceptibility to erosion, causing changes in the coastline's position, particularly in areas affected by human intervention. The study concluded with several key findings, most notably a significant retreat of the coastline during the aforementioned period, with the overall rate of retreat due to erosion estimated at approximately 25 meters. The annual rate of advance or movement resulting from sedimentation was also noted.