Thu Jan 23 14:36:16 UTC 2025: ## Devastating Tidal Flooding Cripples Coastal Ernakulam

**Kochi, Kerala, January 23, 2025** – Severe and increasingly frequent tidal flooding is wreaking havoc on coastal communities in Ernakulam district, Kerala, forcing families from their homes and raising serious concerns about public health and the environment. The intensity and duration of the flooding have dramatically increased, with water remaining stagnant for up to three hours, compared to the previous 15-20 minutes. This phenomenon, known as high tide slack, is poorly understood and unpredictable.

The impact is widespread, affecting over 12,000 hectares of land, including crucial Pokkali farms and Ramsar sites. Thousands of households in Kochi Corporation and 20 panchayats have been inundated, with some families abandoning their homes due to the constant threat of contaminated water and the near-impossible cleanup process. Residents report contaminated drinking water, damage to property, and the loss of livelihoods, particularly in the fishing industry. A 15-year-old has already contracted leptospirosis, a waterborne disease, prompting fears of a wider health crisis.

Local bodies are struggling to cope, calling for the state government to classify tidal flooding as a disaster to unlock greater resources and coordinated action. A meeting of local bodies resulted in a resolution to this effect, and proposals for dredging and other mitigation measures are being developed. However, the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) suggests a focus on long-term mitigation strategies, including improved land-use planning and risk-informed development.

Experts from INCOIS highlight the role of swell surges, amplified by climate change and sea-level rise, in contributing to the prolonged flooding. They emphasize the need for regular alerts and improved understanding of these phenomena. Health officials warn of the potential for outbreaks of waterborne diseases and other health issues related to prolonged exposure to floodwaters and displacement. Further concerns are raised about the potential negative impact of unscientific dredging.

The situation highlights a complex interplay of environmental factors, inadequate infrastructure, and the limitations of local governance in addressing a crisis of this magnitude. While the Kochi Corporation claims to have addressed land-use regulation in its master plan, many feel a more comprehensive, statewide approach is necessary to mitigate the ongoing disaster and protect the affected communities.

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