Assessment of land reclamation of wetlands: a case of vembanad wetland, Kerala

Abstract

Wetlands are areas of marsh, fen, peatland or water, whether natural or artificial, permanent or temporary, with water that is static or flowing, fresh, brackish or salt, including areas of marine water the depth of which at low tide does not exceed six metres Wetlands are among the world’s most productive environments. They are cradles of biological diversity, providing the water and primary productivity upon which countless species of plants and animals depend for survival. They support high concentrations of birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, fish and invertebrate species. Wetlands are also important storehouses of plant genetic material. Vembanad wetland is spread over the districts of Alappuzha, Kottayam, Ernakulam and Thrissur of Kerala. It is the longest water body in the country and largest in the state. It is a complex aquatic system of 96 km. long coastal backwaters, lagoons, marshes, mangroves and reclaimed lands, with intricate networks of natural channels and man-made canals. The Vembanad wetland is included in the ‘The List of Wetlands of International Importance’. The wetland is at the heart of Kerala Backwaters tourism with hundreds of kettuvallams (houseboats) crisscrossing it and numerous resorts nestling on its banks. Five rivers originating in the Western Ghats drain into this water body. The Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is located on the east coast of the wetland. Vembanad is famous for its scenic beauty and has become a major tourist attraction. This study is important as the Vembanad wetland is a habitat for many living organisms, provide livelihood to many people and is used for inland water transport. The aim of the study was to understand the rate of reduction in size for Vembanad wetland from 1966 to 2012 and find reasons behind the reduction. Literature study was done to understand more about this wetland, about wetland rules and Coastal Regulation Zone rules. Case studies done by various organizations and authors were taken in order to understand their analysis. The study was based on site visit and secondary data obtained from many sources. During the study many analysis were obtained. The rate of reduction was found by superimposing maps wetland of different periods. Further study was made in order to understand the reasons behind this reduction. The result of this was that, the reduction was mainly occurring in the Kochi city through land reclamation. Major reclamation was done for residential and industrial purposes.