Abstract:
Though these islands are situated in close proximity to the mainland, they are not connected to the main land by road or bridge access. Therefore these islands has remained under developed with the population not being able to enjoy either the economic or social benefits of the development that is continuously taking place in the mainland. The inhabitants have remained cut off from the mainstream of life in almost all respects and live in comparative poverty.
The inhabitants have to face the difficulties spawned by their seclusion every day. For they have to depend on the Ernakulam mainland for their medical, educational and employment needs. It is estimated that around 40,000 people cross the backwaters to reach the mainland every day by ferry service alone. The people also have to frequently resort to
country crafts for their commuting purposes. Thousands of students, workers and office going people from the islands are dependant on the ferry service for their daily journeys to the mainland and back.
