PLANNING FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT OF KUTTANAD WETLAND REGION, KERALA STATE

Abstract

Water is one of the most precious resources known to man. Wetland regions, natural and artificial, form the basis for purification of water and soil resources. However, with increased unplanned urbanization and lack of crucial facilities such as waste disposal and water resource management, these wetland regions are under severe threat. The study area, Kuttanad Wetland Region, is one such site which is known as the Rice Bowl of Kerala. The region has been witness to various government schemes and projects being implemented in the name of 'mitigating agrarian distresses'. In reality, the situation has not witnessed a dramatic change owing to a lack of cohesiveness in the planning and a single comprehensive plan for the region. The thesis assesses the present situation of the region and identifies problems within the region. Planning strategies are suggested including problem identification through literature surveys, first hand surveys and expert discussions. The lacuna in key infrastructure is assessed and forecasting is conducted for future requirements along with documentation using Geographical Information System (GIS) of the existing condition. The author has made recommendations regarding policy planning strategies for the wetland region along with possible directives for the future developments.