Georgia launches major drive to save coastline from erosion

Georgia is preparing a large-scale project to protect its coastline, beaches and coastal infrastructure from accelerating erosion, with the Asian Development Bank set to provide a $2.5 million loan for the project’s preparation.

As Caliber.Az reports, citing Georgian media, the Roads Department has launched an international tender to select a consulting company that will conduct detailed studies and develop engineering designs. The tender will remain open until October 2, with field research scheduled to begin in spring 2027.

Over nine months, specialists will survey approximately 115 kilometres of coastline affected by storms, rising sea levels and declining sediment flows from rivers. Kobuleti has already been identified among the areas most vulnerable to coastal erosion.

The study will include comprehensive geodetic surveys both on land and underwater, focusing on coastal currents, hydrodynamics, seabed conditions and sand composition.

Based on the findings, experts will assess a range of potential measures, including artificial beach nourishment, breakwaters and other coastal protection structures. Proposed solutions will be evaluated based on technical effectiveness, cost, environmental impact and aesthetic considerations.

The project will also incorporate climate-change projections, including potential sea-level rises through 2050 and 2100 and the possibility of increasingly severe storms.

The final package will include technical specifications, cost estimates and engineering drawings. These documents will serve as the basis for subsequent international tenders for the construction of coastal protection infrastructure.

By Vafa Guliyeva