A Study on the Geo-Environmental and Social Impacts of Koottickal and Kokkayar Landslides

Abstract

Many countries allocate significant resources and labour to mitigate natural hazards, particularly landslides, due to their potential for casualties, property damage, and loss of life worldwide. Over the years, geotechnical and environmental investigations have been conducted to gain a better understanding of landslides. Heavy rain on October 16th, 2021, triggered a devastating landslide in Kerala. Thirteen people were killed, and significant damage was caused by the landslides in Koottickal (Kottayam) and Kokkayar (Idukki). Two separate landslides were reported in Plappalli and Kavali, destroying three shops and three houses. In addition, two footbridges and five bridges were structurally damaged. The study explores the geo-environmental and social characteristics of this catastrophic event due to the heavy rainfall and infiltration around highly fragile and vulnerable geographical surroundings. An environmental Study of the Koottickal and Kokkayar landslide examined the adverse effects on the environment, focusing on the sediment transport that destroyed flora and contamination of water resources that resulted in water pollution. As a result of analysing primary and secondary data, the effects of the landslide have been identified to some extent. Social impacts of the Koottickal landslide have been discussed considering the future development of Koottickal and Kokkayar village as a tourist destination, maintaining the diversity of flora and fauna, and conserving the water source, the perennial river Manimala, which keeps the village a fertile land. Geotechnical and environmental characteristics of the soil are examined in the study. It aims to contribute to a better understanding of landslide dynamics, help formulate effective mitigation strategies, and promote sustainable development practices in landslide-prone areas.