ABSTRACTS
OF RESEARCH REPORTS - 2004 |
REPORT NUMBER: CESS-PR-01-2004 RIVER SAND MINING FROM PALAKKAD DISTRICT, KERALA Abstract Mining of river sand and gravel for various purposes has created serious conflicts in the environmental and socio-economic scenarios of our state. There have been numerous complaints from public as well as various NGOs against the indiscriminate sand mining. As directed by the Hon’ble High Court and the Government of Kerala, CESS has conducted many studies on sand mining and related environmental issues of various river basins of the state for laying down strategies for future mining. The present report is district-wise update of the various sand mining studies carried out over the years in the Palakkad district. As per CESS records, 20 local bodies located on either side of the Bharathapuzha (18) and Bhavani (2) rivers are engaged in instream sand mining. They together mine about 859 truck loads per day (tlpd) of sand through 94 kadavus. The quantity of sand mining is several folds higher than the natural replenishments and hence imposes severe environmental problems in the river basin environment. On the other hand, the sand mining provides employment opportunities to a considerable section of the labour force of the Palakkad district. Further, there is no viable alternative available to this crucial construction material for immediate use. Floodplain mining is also widespread in certain localities in the Bharathapuzha basin. Taking all these into consideration, a
resource allocation strategy that can balance the current demand and the
emerging environmental issues related to sand mining is worked out on
a river basin mode and recommended for consideration of the concerned
authorities for further action. A few additional suggestions are also
made for improving the overall environmental quality of the area. Funding agency : Local Self Government Investigator : Dr. D.Padmalal |
| REPORT NUMBER : CESS-PR-02-2004
RIVER SAND MINING FROM ERNAKULAM DISTRICT, KERALA Abstract Mining of river sand and gravel for various purposes has created serious conflicts in the environmental and socio-economic scenarios of our state. There have been numerous complaints from public as well as various NGOs against the indiscriminate sand mining. As directed by the Hon’ble High Court and the Government of Kerala, CESS has conducted many studies on sand mining and related environmental issues of various river basins of the state for laying down strategies for future mining. The present report is district-wise update of the various sand mining studies carried out over the years in the Ernakulam district. As per CESS records, 40 local bodies located on either side of the Muvattupuzha (19), Periyar (19) and Chalakudy (2) rivers are engaged in sand mining. They together mine about 4802 truck loads per day (tlpd) of sand through 99 kadavus. The quantity of sand mining is several folds higher than the natural replenishments and hence imposes severe environmental problems in the river basin environments. Sand mining provides employment opportunities to a considerable section of the labour force of the Ernakulam district. Further, there is no viable alternative available to this crucial construction material for immediate use. Taking all these into consideration, a
resource allocation strategy that can balance the current demand and the
emerging environmental issues related to sand mining is worked out on
a river basin mode and recommended for consideration of the concerned
authorities for further action. A few additional suggestions are also
made for improving the overall environmental quality of the area. Funding agency: Local Self Government Investigator: Dr. D. Padmalal
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REPORT NUMBER: CESS-PR-05-2004 RESULTS OF CRV SAGAR PASCHIMI 14th CRUISE PROGRAMME FROM VELI TO KARWAR Abstract Water temperature varied broadly from
28.8 to 30.20C and the rise is found in Funding agency Department of Ocean Development Investigators Dr. P.P.Ouseph et
al. |
REPORT NUMBER: CESS-PR-06-2004 UNDERSTANDING LIGHTNING ACCIDENTS TO ALLEVIATE THE HAZARD Abstract The project is aimed at investigating the lightning accidents in Kerala state and working out strategies for the alleviation of this natural hazard. For this, the past data on lightning is was collected from village office records, newspaper reports and all other possible sources. Cloud cover and thundercloud occurrence data were collected from the India Meteorological Department. The study has given the following information: 1. A Data Bank on past incidence of lightning
in Kerala showing the spatial and temporal distribution is made available. The possibility of a danger due to increase
in the number of cell phone transmission towers is also mentioned. Funding agency: Ministry of Home Affairs, Govt. of India and Department of Revenue, Govt. of Kerala Investigators: Dr. S. Murali Das (PI), Dr. G. Mohankumar and Dr. S. Sampath
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| REPORT NUMBER: CESS-PR-08-2004
REGIONAL TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE FOR COASTAL AND MARINE RESOURCES MANAGEMENT AND POVERTY REDUCTION IN SOUTH ASIA INDIA (KERALA) COMPONENT Abstract This project was a part of an international
initiative undertaken by the IUCN and executed in four south Asian countries,
namely, India, Maldives, Pakistan and Sri Lanka. Kerala was taken up for
the study with CESS as an implementing institute. The study covered situation
analysis of entire Kerala coast covering biophysical, socio-economic institutional,
policy and biodiversity issues. Six high priority areas were identified
based on this analysis with special reference to environmental degradation
and incidence of poverty. One of the high priority areas were identified
based on this analysis with special reference to environmental degradation
and incidence of poverty. One of the high priority areas (Alappuzha-Cherthala
area) was chosen for conducting detailed study, preparing ICZM and also
pilot testing. Series of reports presented in this volume have Funding agency: International Union for Conservation of Nature/World Conservation Union Investigators: Dr.K.Soman, Dr.Srikumar
Chattopadhyay, Dr.K.V.Thomas, Shri.B.Sukumar, Smt.Ahalya Sukumar, Shri.Shravan
Kumar, Smt.Mahamaya Chattopadhyay, Shri.C.K.Sasidharan, |
| REPORT NUMBER: CESS-PR-09-2004
DEVELOPMENT OF A BIOGEOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION SYSTEM FOR KERALA (BGIS) Abstract The BGIS is essentially a computer-based
system that makes use of GIS, Remote Sensing and RDBMS software on Windows
NT platform, for creation, updating and analysis of spatially indexed
bio-resources data with reference to their environment. The study area
covers Kollam, Pathanamthitta districts and the adjacent Periyar Tiger
Reserve of Idukki district. Digital map themes on relief, drainage, river
basin, administrative and forest boundaries, transport network, geology,
soil, land use/land cover, vegetation, rainfall, temperature, number of
rainydays, potential evapotranspiration, etc are prepared and included
as GIS layers. Database on bio-resources has been developed in Oracle
using data collated from herbarium, museum records and literature following
a conventional classification. The database is then geocoded and integrated
with map themes in MapInfo GIS core. The BGIS has been customized to facilitate
easy query processing and retrieval of information about the species and
their environment. This can be effectively used for biodiversity related
studies and is helpful in documentation, conservation, monitoring and
management of bio-resources. The BGIS developed is a model for biodiversity
studies and it may be extended to the entire State. Funding agency: Kerala State Council for Science, Technology & Environment Investigators: Shri V.N. Neelakandan (PI), Dr. C.N. Mohanan, Shri B. Sukumar
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REPORT NUMBER CESS-PR-10-2004 COMAPAS – HOTSPOT MONITORING AT KOCHI DURING 2003 Abstract Generally, the hydrobiological
conditions of Kochi estuary are greatly influenced by seawater intrusion
and influx of river water. The study was also revealed the same. The water
temperature ranged from 27 to 320C in the nearshore and in the offshore
it ranged from 25 to 310C. The salinity values ranged from 14.8 to 33.2
and that of pH ranged from 7.58 to 8.28. The lowest suspended solids observed
at offshore samples and the hgighest at nearshore. Significant seasonal
fluctuations in the values of dissolved oxygen, both at surface and bottom,
was seen in the estuarine samples with the lowest oxygen content, which
may be attributed to the decomposition of organic matter. The low salinity
was observed during May and maximum during December, decreased the fresh
water inflow and tides. The low phosphate content was observed during
may and maximum during December, decreased the fresh water inflow and
tides. The low phosphate content was favoured by high suspended sediment
load and high iron content, coupled with low salinity and high oxygen
condition of nearshore water. The concentration of dissolved and sedimentary
trace metals are in the form of fine grade suspended particular matter
from various industrial effluents. In nearshore samples, the lowest primary
productivity was reported during December and the highest value during
May and in offshore samples. When compared to offshore studies, nearshore
recorded the minimum primary productivity all season and this may be due
to harbour activities and high suspended loads. The highest concentration
of surface photosynthetic pigment chlorophyll a was noted during June
in offshore samples where as the lowest was noted in the nearshore during
November. IN nearshore samples, the maximum phaeophytin value was noticed
during May and the lowest value during December and in offshore samples.
The lowest chlorophyll and phgaeophytin value was observed in nearshore
samples except in December. Offshore study during June reported the highest
standing crop phytoplankton. Among phytoplankton general Asterionella,
Chaetoceros, skeletonema were the dominent forms observed during the entire
study. Relatively low phytoplankton count was noticed in the nearshore
samples of all seasons and this may be dur to salinity fluctuation and
the marginal stress resulted from the fresh water input. The lowest zooplankton
biomass was reported in the offshore studies during May. The maximum zooplankton
count was bobserved in the nearshore samples and the minimum was observed
in the offshore during November. Barmouth region was reported the minimum
zooplankton density when compared to the offhsore which may be dur to
the dredging activities in this region. The fish catches from the estuary
mouth showed more species diversity, Mugil cephalus, arius sp., Carangoides
malabaricus and stolephorous commersonii were the major species identified.
Highest concentration of lead was noted during December in the whole body
of Donax sp while the highes cadmium concentration of lead was noted during
December in the whole body of donax sp while the highest cadmium concentration
was reported in the whole body of Crassostrea madrasensis in the same
survey. Highest mercury concentration was noticed in the ctenedia of Crassostreas
madrasensis during June 2003. In the nearshore water samples, maximum
TVC was recorded during June and the maximum count during November and
in the sediment samples, its range was 2400 to 74600 cfu/h. In the offshore
waters, TVC recorded in the lowest count at 5 km during December and the
maximum at 1 km bottom during June and in sediment the range was 1300
to 62500 cfu/g during Novemeber and December respectively. TC,FC,ECLO
was not recorded during all seasons, but their presence was reported during
November only, The same trend was also showed in sediment samples. Sediments
generally didnot recorded SFLO and PALO and was rarely enumerated from
the nearshore samples during Novermber. Generally Shigella and Proteus,
Klebsiella like organisms were reported their maximum count from nearshore
samples in all the seasons. Funding agency: Kerala State Council for Science, Technology & Environment Investigators: Shri V.N. Neelakandan
(PI), Dr. C.N. Mohanan, Shri B. Sukumar |
REPORT NUMBER CESS-PR-11-2004 COMAPAS – MONITORING ALONG KAVARATTI ISLAND-LAKSHADWEEP SEA Abstract Hotspot study at lagoon indicated
that dissolved oxygen concentration in surface waters fluctuated widely
(3.1 to 4.9 mg/l) whereas Nitrate nitrogen (3.16 to 4.22 umol/l) and inorganic
phosphate (1.85 to 2.16 umol/l) also didnot vary considerably. This shows
that during the period in lagoon water quality fluctured in terms of dissolved
oxygen. There was slight increase in dissolved oxygen content in surface
waters off Helipad transect than the Light house transect indicating low
contamination at Helipad transect. The Nearshore water of Lighthouse recorded
higher nitrate nitrogen and inorganic phosphate indicating waste input,
but offshore waters generally showed healthy trend. Slight increase was
observed in the concentrations Inorganic phosphate (1.5 to 2.73 umol/l),
total nitrogen (5.12 to 10.66 umol/l) during the study. The phytoplankton
density varied from 2630 to 4730 no/l and zooplankton from 363 to 430
no/m3 indicating lower density of phytoplankton in lagoon than the open
sea. (Light house- 3530 to 6260 and Helipad – 3320 to 6630 no/l).
Zooplankton, in turn,m showed more or less similar distribution indicaing
active phytoplankton as well as detritus feeding of the zooplankton in
the lagoon. TVC broadly varied from 4430 to 12300 cfu/ml in surface waters
at lagoon whereas sediment county felicitated from 400 to 16600 cfu/g.
Across the coast distribution showed maximum TVC from nearshore waters
of Lighthouse where as total coliforms from Helipad nearshore showed higher
count indicating the prevalent faecal contamination at the region. Funding agency: Department of Ocean Development, New Delhi. Investigators: Dr. P.P. Ouseph et.al.
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REPORT NUMBER CESS-PR-13-2004 FIELD INVESTIGATIONS FOR COLLECTION OF MACROSCOPIC AND GEOLOGICAL DATA ON GROUND DEFORMATION, FLUCTUATION IN WATER LEVEL AND OTHER RELATED INCIDENTS IN KERALA Abstract Several unusual geological incidents have occurred in Kerala State in two distinct active phases i.e. February to March, and June to November 2001. In the first active phase (February-March 2001), fluctuation in water levels, wavy formations and spouting up of water in the open wells, cracks in the buildings, perceptible fissure in the ground, shaking of trees/bushes and enhanced microearthquakes activity have occurred. Collapse of shallow open wells, draining of water, lowering of water level, land subsidence, ground fissures and further increased microearthquakes activity were the dominant incidents in various parts of the State during the second active phase (June-November 2001). These two active phases are separated by a long quiescence phase of about three months (06 March-31 May 2001) with the occurrence of only two incidents. A database is compiled incorporating a total of 612 incidents occurred at 499 different locations during the period. The intensity and frequency of these incidents including microearthquakes activity had declined to background level till November 2001. A few earthquakes (M~3) occurred during 2002 & 2003 are confined to the southern and northern Kerala regions only. The incidents are distributed almost throughout the Kerala state with a few clusters. Sudden spurt of these unusual geological
incidents over the preceding background level seems to be triggered by
a single cause of internal geodynamic processes probably due to creep
of crustal block along certain active fault in Central Kerala region.
It is inferred that rapid ground vibrations/movements had occurred at
several occasions during February to November 2001 possibly due to crushing
of fault surfaces during movement of crustal block. Due to this process,
uplift and tilt of the ground might have taken place resulting in various
forms of land deformation and anomalies in groundwater. The present chain
of events, when examined with the dilatancy diffusion model, reflects
preparatory stage of a large earthquake. An east-west trending elliptical
potential zone (enclosed by 75.8-77.1 0E; 10.3-11.3 0N) has been delineated
using the most direct expression of ground deformations and anomalies
in groundwater occurred during the period in Malappuram, Trichur and Palakkad
districts for possible location of future earthquake activity and related
premonitory signatures. It is visualized that the E-W/NW-SE trending faults
within this zone (76.0-76.8 0E; 10.7-10.9 0N), with which Coimbatore earthquake
was associated, might be an active fault along which accumulation of tectonic
stress is continuing. This view is also supported by the observed patterns
of precursory swarm/anomalous seismic activity occurred from 12 December
2000 to 6 October 2001. A NW-SE trending preparatory zone (1.9x1044 km2)
extending from Calicut to Kottayam is delineated using the spatial distribution
of swarm events/anomalous seismicity. The observed swarm sequence is being
followed by a long quiescence phase from the termination of this activity
on 6 October 2001. The precursory gap period for Kerala region (already
29 months have elapsed) seems to be much longer than the precursory gap
period estimated for Latur earthquake (10 ½ months). Funding agency: Department of Science & Technology Investigators: Dr. H.N. Singh (PI) and Shri. John Mathai
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REPORT NUMBER: CESS-PR-14-2004 (COMAPS) HOTSPOT MONITORING AT VELI DURING 2003 4TH SURVEY TO 6TH SURVEY Abstract During three hourly studies,
the pH at Effluent Discharge Point broadly varied form 1.97 to 5.01, the
lowest during December and the higherst during June. The trrend showed
that the effluents contain sufficient quantity of acid without any treatment.
At 1 km offsjopre, therw was slight reductuinb in pH during Hune and December
indicating seaward surface movement of the effluents. Salinity did not
show considerable fluctuation, but lowe value during the January at the
nearshore statiobs. Dissolved oxygen at EDP renained comparitively lower
during the entire period of the diurnal sampling in January, though the
influence was not seen much during the later studies. The DO might have
been itilized for the oxidation of gerrous iron to ferric and similar
variation processes. Nitrate nitrogen was considerablu high at EDP during
January than in the offsjhore stations. This might be due to the general
depletion of nutrients after monsoon. Inorganic phosphorus concentration
also showed similar influence. Primary productivity and corresponding
chlorphyll generation in the EDP was very low indicating the overall stress,
the effluents pose to the system. In consonance with nutrients content,
the productivity and chlorophyll showed drop across the coast during the
post monsoon period. TVC at EDP broadly varied from no growth to 4920
cƒu/ml in nearshore water, the lowest during January and highest
during December. Sediment TVC fluctuated from NG to 14800 CFU/g December.
The highest count was noticed during June in offshorestations. TVC varied
from 1310 (3 km) during December to 8000 CFU/ml (3 and 10 km) during June.
The sediment TVC across the coast stations varied from 4300 (1 km station
during June) to 60000 CFU/g (3 km during December) showing that impact
of the effluent did not affect the sediment, at large, irrespective of
seasons. Funding agency: Department of Ocean Development Investigators: Dr. P.P. Ouseph et.al
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REPORT NUMBER: CESS-PR-15-2004 COASTAL OCEAN MONITORING AND PREDICTION SYSTEM (COMAPS) HOTSPOT MONITORING AT MANGALORE 2003 5TH SURVEY TO 7TH SURVEY Abstract The pH at the estuarine surface
was largely alkaline in nature irrespective of peiods-pre and post monsoon
seasons. It showed narrow inter survey fluctuation (7.52 during March
to 8.1 during December). Dissolved oxygen also followed similar pattern.
The lowest DO (4.13 mg/l) was noticed during December. There was clear
influence of fresh water during all the surveys, the surveys indicating
low salinities -9.4, 16.6 and 18.7 respectively. Across the coast, there
was no considerable fluctuation in pH and DO. In case of salinity, 1 km
sample showed lower ranged (24.2 to 28). Nutrients, in general showed
similar distribution from 1 to 10 km stations. Primary productivity recorded
higher values during March in the estuary across the coast also productivity
was highest during pre-monsoon (March). November and December surveys
did not show much difference in productivity. Chlorophyll value ranged
from 0.41 to 1.56 mg/m3 and the minimum observed during November and December
and the maximum during March. Phytoplankton count ranged from 1160 to
12565 nos/l and the minimum was recorded during December and the maximum
during March. Zooplnkton biomss ranged from 0.01 to 0.26 ml/m3 and the
minimum was recorded during November and the maximum during March. The
total viable count broadly varied from 64 to 17000 cƒu/ml, the lowest
during 6th survey and the highest during 6th survey and highest during
the 5th survey. In sediment, the distribution was between 14700 and the
31.6x104 cƒu/g, the lowest in November and highest in December. Across
the coast, highest count was noticed at 10km offshore during March. The
general variation was between 175 to 2700 CFU/ml in water and 14.8x103
to 3x105 cƒu/g (3 km) in December. Funding agency Department of Ocean Development Investigators Dr. P.P. Ouseph et.al |
REPORT NUMBER: CESS-PR-16-2004 WATERSHED BASED AGRICULTURE DEVELOPMENT PLANS FOR THE TRIBAL SETTLEMENTS OF THIRUVANANTHAPURAM DISTRICT Abstract Tribal hamlets of similarity in agriculture
practices and socio-cultural aspects that are distributed in a micro watershed
are clustered together to draw development formulations based on the scientific
studies carried out in the settlement areas of Thiruvananthapuram district
from 1999 onwards. A new agricultural development strategy has been evolved
exclusively for these tribal hamlets for getting maximum income and employment
opportunity from the available land base through integrated farming techniques
including crop, livestock, apiary and allied complementary sectors. Type of Report: Final Report (Volume-19 A&B) Funding Agency: Department of Scheduled Tribes Development Investigators: Dr.V.Nandakumar(PI), Dr.P.Rajendran, Dr.K. Narendra Babu, Dr.S.Chandrakaran, Shri.V.M.Abdul Hakkim, Shri. S. Sidhardhan and Shri. K. Raju
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REPORT NUMBER: CESS-PR-17-2004 TERRAIN CHARACTERISTICS AND SOIL DEGRADATION STUDIES IN THE FOREST ECOSYSTEM ADJOINING IDUKKI RESERVOIR Abstract The Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary forms the catchment of one of Kerala State’s most vital reservoir cum dam systems. The power requirement of Kerala is very much dependent on Idukki hydro-electric project. Disturbances due to human activity such as cultivation in the catchment arms and felling of forest trees are causative factors for aggravating soil erosion in the Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary. Soil manipulations in plantation of cardamom, coffee, tea and eucalyptus in areas adjoining the reservoir has also added to the problem of erosion and siltation of the reservoir. A system of priority determination for catchment treatment based on terrain evaluation, application of USLE along with fieldmeasurements are attempted and soil conservation measures in such priority areas are proposed to effectively control soil degradation in the Idukki Wildloife Sanctuary. Type of report: Final Report Funding agency: Department Scheduled Tribes Development, Government of Kerala Investigators: Dr. V. Nandakumar (PI), Dr. P. Rajendran, Shri. K. Raju
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REPORT NUMBER: CESS-PR-18-2004 EVALUATION OF NUTRIENT BUDGET OF THE RIVERS AND ADJOINING BACKWATER – NEARSHORE SYSTEMS OF KERALA Abstract Nutrients originating from natural as well as man made activities discharge through rivers and estuaries into oceans. Presence of nutrients in sufficient amount can enhance the productivity of the system, which is essential for the multiplication of fish and other aquatic species. There are many controlling factors that enhance or deplete nutrient fluxes. Anthropogenic activities impart quantitative variation in the net transfer of nutrients and micronutrients, as well as make qualitative changes in water bodies. A study was conducted to assess the spatial and seasonal variations of water quality and nutrient fluxes through the seven rivers in the hinterland areas of Vembanad estuary. The study revealed that during monsoon period the flux rate of all nutrient species of N, P and Si are very high, as compared to non-monsoon period. The study evaluated impact of sand mining on nutrient fluxes. It is found that the TSS content of water during monsoon period is very high with respect to the non-monsoon value. But, in non-monsoon water, the quantity of P and Fe per unit weight of TSS was considerably high compared to monsoon water. This could be in deep pits that are produced in intensive sand mining areas due to trapping of nutrients at higher levels along with TSS because of the low/non flow of water. Type of report: Final Report Funding agency: CESS Investigator: Dr. K. Narendra Babu (PI)
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REPORT NUMBER: CESS-PR-19-2004 RIVER SAND MINING FROM IDUKKI DISTRICT, KERALA Abstract Mining of river sand and gravel for various purposes has created conflicts in the environmental and socio-economic scenarios of our state. There have been numerous complaints from public as well as various NGOs against the indiscriminate sand mining. As directed by the Hon’ble High Court and the Government of Kerala, CESS has conducted many studies on sand mining and related environmental issues of various river basins of the State for laying down strategies for future mining. The present report is district-wise update of the various sand mining studies carried out over the years in the Idukki district. As per CESS records, a total of 31 local bodies located on either side of the Manimala (1) and Pambar (2) rivers are engaged in sand mining. They together mine about 476 truck loads per day (tlpd) of sand through 228 kadavus. The quantity of sand mining is several folds higher than the natural replenishments and hence imposes severe environmental problems in the river basin environment. On the other side, the sand mining provides employment opportunities to a considerable section of the labour force in the Idukki district. Further, there is no viable alternative available to this crucial construction material for immediate use. Taking all these into consideration, a
resource allocation strategy that can balance the current demand and the
emerging environmental issues related to sand mining is worked out on
a river basin mode and recommended for consideration of the concerned
authorities for further action. A few additional suggestions are also
made for improving the overall environmental quality of the area. Funding agency: Local Self Government
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REPORT NUMBER: CESS-PR-20-2004 DEVELOPMENTAL PRIORITY REPORT OF THE TRIBAL SETTLEMENTS OF PATHANAMTHITTA DISTRICT Abstract As part of the watershed studies project a major inventory creation initiative was undertaken in the tribal hamlets of the five southern districts of Kerala. In tune with this a detailed quality of life study of the tribals of the Pathanamthitta district was also undertaken from 2002 onwards. The report presents details of one thousand three hundred and twelve households in forty tribal hamlets of Pathanamthitta district. The tribal settlements of the district have been classified into low, medium, high and hotspots based on developmental priorities. Some of the important developmental indices like educational facilities, housing, literacy, land holdings, occupation, sanitation, availability of drinking water etc. have been analysed for classifying the hamlets. Type of report: Final Report (Vol.20) Funding agency: Department Scheduled Tribes Development, Government of Kerala Investigators: Dr. V. Nandakumar (PI), Dr. P. Rajendran, Dr. K. Narendra Babu, Dr. S. Chandrakaran, Shri. V.M. Abdul Hakkim, Shri S Sidharthan, Shri. K. Raju, Shri. C.E. Ajith Kumar
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REPORT NUMBER: CESS-PR-23-2004 WATERSHED BASED AGRICULTURAL DEVELOPMENT PLANS FOR THE TRIBAL SETTLEMENTS OF KOTTAYAM DISTRICT Abstract Tribal hamlets of similarity in agriculture
practices and socio-cultural aspects that are distributed in a micro watershed
are clustered together to draw developmental formulations based on the
scientific studied carried out in the settlement area of Kottayam district
from 1999 onwards. A new agricultural development strategy has been evolved
exclusively for these tribal hamlets for getting maximum income and employment
opportunity from the available land base through integrated farming techniques
including crop, livestock, apiary and allied complementary sectors. Type of report: Final Report (Vol.21) Funding agency: Department Scheduled Tribes Development, Government of Kerala Investigators: Dr. V. Nandakumar (PI), Dr. P. Rajendran, Dr. K. Narendra Babu, Dr. S. Chandrakaran, Shri. V.M. Abdul Hakkim, Shri S Sidharthan, Shri. K. Raju, Shri. C.E. Ajith Kumar
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REPORT NUMBER: CESS-PR-24-2004 DEVELOPMENTAL PRIORITY REPORT OF THE TRIBAL SETTLEMENTS OF THIRUVANANTHAPURAM DISTRICT Abstract As part of the watershed studies project a major inventory creation initiative was undertaken in the tribal hamlets of the five southern districts of Kerala. In tune with this a detailed quality of life study of the tribals of the Thiruvananthapuram district was also undertaken from 2002 onwards. The report presents details of one thousand three hundred and twelve households in forty tribal hamlets of Thiruvananthapuram district. The tribal settlements of the district have been classified into low, medium, high and hotspots based on developmental priorities. Some of the important developmental indices like educational facilities, housing, literacy, land holdings, occupation, sanitation, availability of drinking water etc. have been analysed for classifying the hamlets. Type of report: Final Report (Vol.20) Funding agency: Department Scheduled Tribes Development, Government of Kerala Investigators: Dr. V. Nandakumar (PI), Dr. P. Rajendran, Dr. K. Narendra Babu, Dr. S. Chandrakaran, Shri. V.M. Abdul Hakkim, Shri S Sidharthan, Shri. K. Raju, Shri. C.E. Ajith Kumar
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REPORT NUMBER: CESS-PR-26-2004 SHORELINE MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE WEST COAST OF INDIA Abstract A project on shoreline Management along the munambam –Kayamkulam stretch of West coast of India was taken up fppr DOD in January 2003. The progress report of the project for the financial year 2003-04 is presented in this report. The characteristics of wind, wave and current date were studied for the coast using secondary data. It is seen that the predominant wind direction is W-NW while the nearshore wave directions are 245-2500 N in non-monsoon period. The lonshore currents are southerly during monsoon and northerly during non-monsoon period. A study of the coastal geomorphology based on secondary data and field visits shows that the coast has distinct geomorphological characteristics. The coast is noted for the occurrence of unique mud banks. Estuaries, kayals and lagoons occupy most of the eastern margins of the coast. An analysis of long-term shoreline change using satellite data of 2000 with reference to topographic sheets of Survey of India shows that during the 15-year period, erosion was dominant in the Thottapally – Aleppey sector while accretion was overwhelmingly dominant in the zone north of the Cochin inlet. The status of coastal protection along the coast has been documented from field visits. It is seen that coastal protection adopted in the study area is mostly seawall. Although groins are available in Njarakal, Fort Cochin and Anthakaranazhi, all the groins except those at Fort Cochin region are completely damaged. The shoreline mapping using DGPS was taken up during the year. 5 PRPs were selected in the studu are agiving due consideration to the diffetent criteria for selection of these points. Locations were fixed for 10 SRPs from kayamkulam to Anthakaranazhi by static survey for short time intervals. Shoreline mapping by RTK method was carried out for the Kayamkulam to Alleppey stretch. A study of Socio-Economic aspects of the study area shows that the high density of population and increasing demand on land are the major problems facing this coastal stretch. The presence of seawalls has caused tremendous degradation in the aesthetic of the coastal zone and also caused increase in the accumulation of solid wastes. The details of offshore measurements are other field programmes carried out during the pre-monsoon season are also repeated. Type of report: Annual Report 2003-04 Funding agency: Department of Ocean Development Investigators: DrN.P. Kurian, Dr.K.V. Thomas, Dr. K.K.Ramachandran, Dr.T.S.Shahul Hameed, Abhilash.P.Pillai, Kalaiarasan.P, Rajith.K, Murali Krishnan.B.T, Indulekha.K.P
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REPORT NUMBER: CESS-PR-27-2004 COMAPS- RESULT OF CRV SAGAR PASCHIMI 15TH CRUISE PROGRAMME FROM VELI TO KARWAR Abstract Water temperature varied broadly from 24 to 290C and the rise is found in Veli. pH, salinity and DO across the coastal waters of Veli to Karwar segment didnot show considerable fluctuation except a drop in pH at nearshore of Veli. The lowest salinity was noticed in the estuarine waters at the Kochi due to the influence of freshwater. Dissolved Oxygen broadly varied from 3.8 mg/l (nearshore of Veli) to 5.27 mg/l (Neendakara, 5 km). Nitrate nitrogen recorded the lowest value (3.69 µmol/l) at 10 km offshore at Calicut and highest value (5.37 µmol/l) at Kochi estuary. Inorganic phosphate widely fluctuated from 0.91µmol/l (3 km off Neendakara) to 2.35µmol/l (Veli estuary). In sediment texture analysis, the maximum percentage of sand 94.5 was observed at Veli nearshore and the minimum 15.5 was at Kochi. The lowest value of slit 2.1 was obseved at Veli and the highest 48.21 was at Kochi. The highest value of organic carbon content 5.41 mg/g was noticed a tKochi. The maximum values of sediment Lead, cadmium and mercury was observed at Kochi indicate the impact of industrial wastes. The highest productivity and chlorophyll was recorded at 3 to 5 kms off Karwar and Kochi respectively. Total Viable Count (TVC) in surface waters recorded the highest count (25000 cƒu/ml) at 5 km of Calicut. In sediment, 5 km of Kochi enumerated the highest count (9X105 cƒu/g). Coliforms are found generally confined to the nearshore region, the highest being from nearshore of Karwar. Total vibrios were noted the maximum from offshore samples of Veli. Bacterial activity is more in Kerala coast and productivity off estuarine transects are seemingly higher than other transects. Type of report : Project Report Funding agency : Department of Ocean Development Investigators : Dr. P. P.
Ouseph et.al |
REPORT NUMBER: CESS-PR-28-2004 GIS BASED SEISMIC HAZARD MICROZONATION FOR KOCHI CITY USING GROUND – SHAKING SITE EFFECTS DATA Abstract Development of seismic Microzonation of a region essentially incorporates several parameters with site response data as the base parameter. Site response data indicates intensity of ground shaking that can be expected in an earthquake at a particular site and its impact on communication network, business centers, population, engineering activities etc. The site response data at a number of locations are to be corroborated with local geology, sediment thickness, geotechnical parameters, seismogenic sources (faults/folds) etc. for understanding extent of damage and seismic risk assessment due to ground shaking. Under the proposed work, we have prepared maps of the Kochi city with themes such as transport network, drainage, waterbodies, landuse and general geology. These are scanned, geo-referenced, digitized, edited and integrated in GIS environment. These individual map layers constitute the digital base map of the Kochi city to be used for representing site response data and preparation of the microzonation map. Type of report: Annual Progress Report for First Year (2003-2004) Funding agency: State Committee on Science, Technology and Environment Investigators: Dr. H.N. Singh, Shri. V. N. Neelakandan and Shri. V. Shravankumar
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CESS-PR-29-2004 MASTER PLAN FOR THIRURANGADI BLOCK Abstract Participatory approaches in natural resource
management are increasingly being criticized for their tendency to neglect
power relations and conflicts of interests. Negotiation approaches have
been proposed as a strategy to overcome such shortcomings. Initiating
negotiations on soil/ water conservation at plot level had resulted in
a set of action plans in each panchayats in Thirurangadi Block. This report
presents an analytical framework for analyzing such participatory approaches
in natural resource management (NRM). The concepts of participatory NRM
and capacity building of human resources are applied to analyze the role
of the stakeholders involved and their role in developing action plans. Type of report: Final Technical Report Funding agency: Centre for Development Studies Investigators: Dr. Terry Machado, Shri. Kutty Ahmed Kutty, Shri. Sasidharan.C.K, Shri. Motilal.M and Oommen John
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REPORT NUMBER: CESS-PR-30-2004 COMPARISON OF INDIAN (CHAVARA) AND BANGLADESH (COX’S BAZAR) ILMENITES IN THE PROCESS OF UPGRADING INTO SYNTHETIC RUTILE Abstract Indian (Chavara) and Bangladesh (Cox's Bazar) ilmenite deposits vary to a large extent in terms of mineralogy, chemical composition and degree of weathering. Accordingly, the Synthetic Rutile produced from these deposits do vary in its physical and chemical characteristics. The quality of the product reflected in the content of TiO2 and other minor constituents depends on the raw mineral quality and on the processing route being followed in the beneficiation of the ilmenite. The Synthetic Rutile produced from Indian and Bangladesh ilmenite has been compared based on various critical parameters and also on its suitability as the feedstock for chloride route of pigment manufacture. Type of report: Final Technical Report Funding agency: Centre for Development Studies Investigators: D.S. Suresh Babu, A.S.W. Kurny, P.N. Mohan Das, K.H. Bhat, Narayanaswamy |
DEVELOPMENT PRIORITY REPORT OF THE TRIBAL SETTLEMENT OF KOLLAM DISTRICT; WATERSHED STUDIES IN SELECTED DISTRICTS OF KERALA WITH SPECIAL EMPHASIS ON TRIBAL SETTLEMENTS Abstract As part of the watershed studies project a major inventory creation initiative was undertaken in the tribal hamlet of the five southern districts of Kerala. In tune with this a detailed quality of life study of the tribals of the Kollam district was also undertaken from 2002 onwards. The report present details of tribal hamlets of Kollam district. The tribal settlements of the district have been classified in to low, medium, high and hotspots based on developmental priorities. Some of the important development indices like educational facilities, housing, literacy, land holdings, occupation, sanitation, availability of drinking water etc. have been analyzed for classifying the hamlets. Type of report: Final Technical Report Funding agency: Department of Scheduled tribes development, Govt. of Kerala Investigators: Dr. V. Nandakumar, Dr. P. Rajendran (KAU), Dr. K. Narendra Babu, Dr. S. Chandrakaran (NIT, Calicut), Shri. V. M. Abdul Hakkim (KAU), Shri. S. Sidharthan, Shri. K. Raju, Shri. C.E. Ajith Kumar (KAU)
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REPORT NUMBER: CESS-PR-33-2004 DEVELOPMENT PRIORITY REPORT OF THE TRIBAL SETTLEMENT OF IDUKKI DISTRICT; WATERSHED STUDIES IN SELECTED DISTRICTS OF KERALA WITH SPECIAL EMPHASIS ON TRIBAL SETTLEMENTS Abstract As part of the watershed studies project a major inventory creation initiative was undertaken in the tribal hamlet of the five southern districts of Kerala. In tune with this a detailed quality of life study of the tribals of the Idukki district was also undertaken from 2002 onwards. The report present details of tribal hamlets of Idukki district. The tribal settlements of the district have been classified in to low, medium, high and hotspots based on developmental priorities. Some of the important development indices like educational facilities, housing, literacy, land holdings, occupation, sanitation, availability of drinking water etc. have been analyzed for classifying the hamlets. Type of report: Final Technical Report Funding agency: Department of Scheduled tribes development, Govt. of Kerala Investigators: Dr. V. Nandakumar, Dr. P. Rajendran (KAU), Dr. K. Narendra Babu, Dr. S. Chandrakaran (NIT, Calicut), Shri. V. M. Abdul Hakkim (KAU), Shri. S. Sidharthan, Shri. K. Raju, Shri. C.E. Ajith Kumar (KAU) |
REPORT NUMBER: CESS-PR-34-2004 BIOMASS RESOURCE ASSESSMENT STUDY OF KUNNATHUNAD AND PARUR TALUKS, ERNAKULAM DISTRICT, KERALA Abstract The present study deals with a detailed study on the biomass source and availability of Kunnathunadu and Parur taluks of Ernakulam district. An attempt has also been made to assess the surplus biomass availability in these areas. The study reveals that the Kunnathunadu taluk with an area of 431 km2 and 250 agro-based industrial units generates an amount of 664991 tons of biomass every year. The estimated biomass availability in the Parur taluk (area 194 km2 and 35 agro-based industries) comes to about 263459 tons/year and 477022 tons/year for the Kunnathunad taluk and 20074 tons/year and 243385 tons/year for the Parur taluk. The agro-industries in the study area include veneer units, match industries, rice mills, saw mills and coir-defibering units; of which the former four categories dominates in the Kunnathunadu taluk and later two dominates in the Parur taluk. Out of the total annual biomass availability , an amount of 284934 tons is estimated as surplus in the Kunnathunadu taluk and 69198 tons in the Parur taluk. The surplus biomass available in these areas can be used as an alternate source for energy generation in the coming years. Type of report: Project Final Report Funding agency : Centre for Development Studies Investigators: Dr. D.
Padmalal, Smt. K. Maya and S. Sreebha |
REPORT NUMBER: CESS-PR-35-2004 REMOTE SENSING AND GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SYSTEM APPLICATION IN GENERATION AND SYNTHESIS OF ENVIRONMENTAL STATISTICS Abstract This project is sponsored by the Central Statistical Organisation, Govt. of India. It has demonstrated utility of applying RS-GIS in generation of environmental statistics with specific examples from Ittikara drainage basin, Kerala. Data sources include Remote Sensing data products, topographical maps, other thematic maps, primary survey and various other data generating organizations. In all 38 tables are prepared covering the sectors like land, water, landuse, environmental issues and demography. A panchayat level environmental data matrix is prepared. The environmental atlas contains 29 maps presenting various themes. Another 10 maps are prepared following a grid cell approach, dividing the entire area into 500m x 500 m grids and computing data on various parameters for each grids. An environmental data matrix id prepared ar the grid cell level. Appendices contain selected block level data and a training module for RS-GIS application to extract environmental statistics. Type of report : Final Technical Report Funding agency : Central Statistical Organisation, Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation, Govt. of India Investigators : Srikumar Chattopadhyay, Mahamaya Chattopadhyay, Sreelekha.C and Vivek K.S.
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LANDSLIDE MITIGATION STUDY IN LANDSLIDE PRONE AREAS OF PATHANAPURAM TALUK, KOLLAM DISTRICT Abstract Terrain evaluation was carried out in the Edamon, Aryankavu and Tenmala villages of Pathanapuram Taluk, Kollam district to identify landslide prone areas. Thematic maps related to terrain parameters such as slope, drainage, landuse, relative relief were prepared using GIS and conventional methods. Out of the total 360 sq.km about 3.76 sq.km is found to be critical and 70.54 sq.km area has been identified as highly unstable. The moderately unstable area constitutes 151.24 sq.km and moderately stable and stable areas constitute 96.46 and 38.00 sq.km respectively. It implies that about 1.04% of the study area is falling in the critical zone. About 19.59% of the study area is falling in the highly unstable category. It means about 20% of the study area needs careful handing as far as slope stability is concerned. Analysis indicate that places such as north flank of Nagamala, Tooval mala Tenmala-Ottakkal, west Thirthankaramala near Aryankavu, Peak 222 near Ambanadu Ar, Thunnaattumala, Rishimala, Kalangamalateri, Karithod north, Minulli Ar, etc indicate special attention as far as vulnerability is concerned. Dewatering methods such as opening of stream-channels and poorly defined drainage channels (hollow sections), providing drainage to terraces, strengthening of toe and other slope-cut portions are suggested to stabilize critical and highly unstable slopes. Type of report: Project Report Funding agency: Revenue Department, Government of Kerala Investigators: Shri. G. Sankar, Shri. John Mathai and Shri. S. Sidharthan
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REPORT NUMBER: CESS-CRZ-01-2004 DEMARCATION OF HIGH TIDE LINE AND COASTAL REGULATION ZONE FOR THE PROPOSED THOPPAYIL SLUM IMPROVEMENT SCHEME AT KOZHIKODE BEACH Abstract The Kozhikode Corporation proposes the construction of an open stage and a playground along the Kozhikode coast for the improvement of a slum at Thoppayil under the Thoppayil Model Slum Scheme. Demarcation of CRZ for the sites was done on cadastral maps. The HTL and LTL were identified in the field based on geomorphic signatures and demarcated on base maps. Both the sites are in CRZ II. The site being landward of many existing houses, the construction of open air stage is a permissible activity. The site does not harbour any ecosystems eligible to be categorised as CRZ I(i) and hence the construction of playground is also a permissible activity.
Type of report: CRZ Status Report Investigators: Dr. K.V. Thomas, Dr. N.P.Kurian, Shri.D.Raju and K.O.Badrees
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REPORT NUMBER: CESS-CRZ-03-2004
Abstract Swargam Resorts Pvt Ltd. proposes the construction of a resort at Chethi in Alappuzha district. Demarcation of CRZ for the sites was done on cadastral maps. The HTL and LTL were identified in the field based on geomorphic signatures and demarcated on base maps. The site comes under CRZ III with a NDZ of 200m landward of HTL. The site does not harbour any ecosystems eligible to be categorised as CRZ I (i). The construction of resort landward of the NDZ is a permissible activity subject to conditions. Type of report: CRZ Status Report Investigators: Dr. K.V.
Thomas, Dr. N.P.Kurian, Shri.D.Raju and K.O.Badrees |
REPORT NUMBER: CESS-CRZ-04-2004 DEMARCATION OF HIGH TIDE LINE AND COASTAL REGULATION ZONE FOR PROPOSED RESORT DEVELOPMENT AT PARAVUR THEKKUMBHAGAM BEACH Abstract It is propsed to set up a resort close to
the Thekkumbhagam beach bordering the Type of report : CRZ Status Report Funding agency: Investigators : Dr. K.V. Thomas, Dr. N.P.Kurian, Shri.D.Raju and K.O.Badrees
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REPORT NUMBER: CESS-CRZ-05-2004 DEMARCATION OF HIGH TIDE LINE AND COASTAL REGULATION ZONE FOR THE PROPOSED PROPOSED FISHERY HARBOUR AT THALAI Abstract The Harbour Engineering Department, Government
of Kerala proposes to establish Type of report: CRZ Status Report Investigators: Dr. K.V. Thomas, Dr. N.P.Kurian, Shri.D.Raju ,Shri. K.O.Badrees, Shri. M.V.Vinod, Toji Jose and Sreejesh.
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REPORT NUMBER: CESS-CRZ-06-2004 DEMARCATION OF HTL, LTL AND CRZBOUNDARIES FOR THE TELECOMMUNICATION CABLE ENTRY POINT AT VERSOVA, MUMBAI, MAHARASHTRA STATE Abstract Reliance Communication Infrastructure
Ltd (RCIL) drawn up plan to deploy an Type of report: CRZ Status Report Investigators: Dr. K.V. Thomas, Dr. N.P.Kurian, Shri.D.Raju ,Shri. K.O.Badrees, Shri. Toji Jose and Shri. Sreejesh. |
REPORT NUMBER: CESS-CRZ-07-2004 DELINEATION OF HTL, LTL AND CRZBOUNDARIES FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF JETTY ON KUNDALIKA RIVER BANK AT SANEGAV Abstract Esquire Shipping & Trading Pvt. Ltd,
Mumbai proposes to construct and maintain Type of report: CRZ Status Report Investigators: Dr. K.V. Thomas, Dr. N.P.Kurian, Shri.D.Raju ,Shri. K.O.Badrees, Shri. Toji Jose and Shri. Sreejesh. |
REPORT NUMBER: CESS-CRZ-13-2004 CRZ STATUS REPORT FOR THEERAPATHAM PROJECT AREA THIRUVANANTHAPURAM Abstract Govt. of Kerala proposes urban regeneration and development of a tourism corridor along the coastal zone extending from Kovalam to Veli in Thiruvananthapuram district. It includes improvement and revival of Veli - Akkulam Lake and Parvathy Puthan Ar canal and establishment of tourism and urban recreation facilities. The site is covered in Map No. 3, 4, 5 and 6 of the Coastal Zone Management Plan of the State (CZMP, 1995). Demarcation of CRZ for the site was done on large scale maps of 1:4000. The HTL and LTL were identified based on field signatures and demarcated. The CRZ is 500 m landward of the HTL for the coast and it is 100 m or less for canal, river and backwater banks. The CRZ categories are recommended based on the CZMP and field information. The CRZ consists of CRZ I (i), CRZ I (ii), and CRZ II and CRZ III Type of report : CRZ Status Report Investigators : Dr. K.V. Thomas, Dr. N.P.Kurian, Shri.D.Raju ,Shri. S. Mohanan, Shri. M. Ramesh Kumar Shri. K.O.Badrees, Shri. Toji Jose, Indulekha.K.P, Deepa Varghese.G.S and Shri. M.C. Sreejesh
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REPORT NUMBER: CESS-CRZ-14-2004 DEMARCATION OF HIGH TIDE LINE AND LOW TIDE LINE FOR THE PROPOSED COAL BERTH NEAR KOLI GATE BOUNDARY OF TPCL AT TROMBAY Abstract Tata Pwer Company Ltd, Trombay proposed to construct a coal berth at Trombay in Maharashtra. The site is on the banks of Trombay Channel which is part of Thane Creek. Demarcation of CRZ for the site was done on a base map in 1:4000 scale. The HTL and LTL were identified in the field based on geomorphic signatures and demarcated on base maps. The project site is in the CRZ II. The turning circle and approach channel are in CRZ I(ii). A part of the project site is within the mangrove buffer zone. Type of report : CRZ Status Report Investigators : Dr. K.V.
Thomas, Dr. N.P.Kurian, Shri.D.Raju , Shri. K.O.Badrees, |