Wetlands

Kerala, famed for its verdant landscapes, is blessed with an abundance of wetlands. Encompassing roughly one-fifth of the State’s land area, these wetlands encompass a remarkable diversity. Marshes, waterlogged areas, vast polders (paddy fields) bordering backwaters, serene lakes  and the unique Myristica Swamps nestled within the Western Ghats all contribute to this rich tapestry. Kerala have wetlands of international and national significance, such as Vembanad-Kole, Ashtamudi and Sasthamcotta lakes, designated as Ramsar sites.

These wetland ecosystems play a vital role, supporting countless people through the provision of essential goods and services. Unfortunately, rapid urbanisation have encroached upon these wetlands in the past, fragmenting their natural connectivity and destroying vegetation. While the exact rate of wetland loss remains unquantified, the qualitative degradation is somewhat evident. Pollution, eutrophication (excessive nutrient levels), encroachment, reclamation for development, mining and biodiversity loss are the primary threats to these ecosystems.However, over the past five years, several management programs have been initiated to ensure sustainable wetland management.

The State Wetland Authority Kerala (SWAK), established under the Department of Environment, oversees wetland management. SWAK focuses on policy development, regulatory frameworks, integrated management, capacity building, research and awareness. It collaborates with various stakeholders to ensure the sustainable use and protection of these valuable ecosystems.

Further, the Kerala State Council for Science, Technology and Environment (KSCSTE) has developed management plans for key lakes like Vembanad, Sasthamcotta and Ashtamudi. There’s also active involvement from NGOs in monitoring and conservation efforts. Community-based organisations across the state are playing a crucial role in raising awareness and advocating for wetland protection.

Kerala boasts of more than 200 wetland areas, covering about one-fifth of the State’s land area. The State consists a network of 44 rivers, with three flowing eastward. Two of these, Bharathapuzha and Periyar, exceed 200 kilometers in length and hold the distinction of having the largest catchment areas. In the past, administrative boundaries for districts and villages often disregard natural water basin boundaries, making effective water resource planning at the watershed level challenging. However, of late, the thought process has changed and watershed level planning is being taken into account during the conception of any project.

The rivers of Kerala, along with dams, reservoirs and bridges, play a crucial role in irrigation, transportation and tourism. Hydroelectricity is another key benefit derived from these rivers. However, siltation is a growing concern for some older dams. Water sharing agreements exist, with rivers like Chalakudy and Periyar supplying water for irrigation in neighboring Tamil Nadu. Many smaller reservoirs serve as drinking water sources for towns.

Kerala has a limited number of inland lakes, with Pokkode, Sasthamkotta and Vellayani being notable examples. Sasthamkotta lake, a tributary of the Kallada River, provides drinking water to Kollam town. However, its water level is declining, raising concerns about future shortages. Large dams like Mullaperiyar and Idukki capture most of the Periyar River’s water. While Idukki generates hydroelectric power, the water is then released into the Muvattupzha river. Ithikkara River stands out as the sole river in Kerala without dams.

Ponds are typically found in areas facing seasonal water scarcity. These ponds can be linked to irrigation canals or associated with places of worship, often well-maintained. Another type of pond collects water in valleys for dry season irrigation. A comprehensive inventory of all ponds and tanks is crucial for proper water resource management. Finally, disused quarry ponds, often filled with freshwater, offer potential for various uses, including fish farming.

Kerala’s once robust network of canals, historically used for transportation throughout the State, has fallen into disuse due to the rise of road, rail and air travel. Steps are being taken to revive the network of canals.

Understanding and managing Kerala’s water resources effectively requires acknowledging their complexity and interconnectedness. Balancing the needs of irrigation, power generation, transportation, ecological health and the livelihoods of local communities remains an ongoing challenge. Collaborative efforts between government agencies, NGOs and local communities are essential to ensure the sustainable management of this vital resource.