Kerala's First Spring Census Highlights Top Districts and Water Resource Insights
In a landmark report released by the Union Ministry of Jal Shakti on Monday, the first-ever spring census in Kerala has identified Malappuram, Thiruvananthapuram, and Kannur as the districts with the highest number of springs. This comprehensive survey, part of a national initiative to document water sources, provides crucial data on the distribution and usage of springs across the state.
District-Wise Breakdown of Spring Counts
According to the census, Kerala boasts a total of 4,333 springs. Malappuram leads with 709 springs, followed closely by Thiruvananthapuram with 633 and Kannur with 572. In stark contrast, Alappuzha has the fewest springs, with only 24 recorded. These water sources are predominantly found in the tropical and hilly landscapes, especially concentrated in the rugged terrains of the Western Ghats and midland districts.
Characteristics and Usage of Springs
The report details that 53.3% of the springs, amounting to 2,310, are free-flowing, while 46.7% or 2,023 slowly seep out of the ground. A significant 77% of the springs, or 3,335, are perennial, which is considered a positive indicator for the state's water security. Approximately 30% of these perennial springs are utilized by people for various purposes.
In terms of usage, residents are the primary users of water from 59.7% of the springs, non-residents account for 33.5%, and wild animals access 6.8%. However, a notable concern is that 63.4% of the springs, or 2,688, are located on private land, which could pose challenges for management and conservation efforts.
Geological Formation and Conservation Efforts
Springs in Kerala are formed due to unique geological features, including thick lateritic caps and fractured crystalline rocks, combined with heavy monsoon rainfall. Lal Thompson, superintendent hydrogeologist and nodal officer of the National Hydrology Project, emphasized that the government has proposed a draft policy to address the risks faced by these springs.
He stated that this census marks the first inventory of its kind, and a protocol along with standard operating procedures will be finalized. These measures aim to facilitate further data collection and enhance the management of springs to ensure their sustainability.
National Context and Future Steps
This pioneering census was conducted by the state groundwater department as part of the Union Ministry of Jal Shakti's broader initiative to document water sources nationwide. Other states such as Tamil Nadu, Bihar, Karnataka, Ladakh, and Sikkim have also completed their spring censuses, while the remaining states are yet to finish the process.
The report concludes that despite the high number of springs on private land, 91.5% do not face immediate resource threats, indicating a relatively stable condition. However, ongoing monitoring and policy implementation will be crucial to protect these vital water sources for future generations.
