SURROUNDED BY WATER, QUENCHING FOR THIRST: DRINKING WATER ISSUE IN NORTH KUTTANADU, A SPECIAL REFERENCE WITH KAVALAM

Abstract [English]

Kuttanad, often known as the "rice bowl of Kerala," is a 900-square-foot delta region on the west coast of Alappuzha, with coordinates of 9.3428 degrees N and 76.4240 degrees E. Add diversity to the environment by incorporating Greenland, patches, fisheries, flora, wildlife, rivers, ponds, and backwaters. The only area in all of India below sea level that reclaims and converts polders, wetland areas, and backwater areas for paddy farming is Kuttanad. Every topographical configuration in Kuttanad has advantages and disadvantages. Specifically, the study examines the effects of textile washing and untreated sewage outflow on the water availability and quality in the region caused by human activities. The study analyses the quality of the water, conducts community interviews, and conducts field surveys to evaluate the extent of pollution and its impact on the local populace. The findings demonstrate the pressing need for all-encompassing measures to address the root causes of the water contamination in Kavalam Kuttanad. It is recommended that the initial steps in lessening the situation involve the implementation of awareness programs that promote acceptable water use habits in conjunction with an effective wastewater treatment infrastructure. Additionally, community involvement and stakeholder engagement are essential to ensure the sustainability of long-term solutions.