Adopt a River

Kerala, with its rich cultural heritage, has always placed immense importance on every aspect of life, including the preservation of human, floral, and faunal communities. Historically, riverine communities in Kerala depended on rivers for their livelihood, transportation, and cultural activities such as rituals and festivals. This close relationship had a significant impact on river health. However, as technology and urbanization progressed, the bond between riverine communities and rivers weakened. The reliance on rivers for transportation and livelihood diminished, and festivals and rituals associated with rivers, like boat races, have become less common, now limited to a few areas.

Boating, particularly using traditional wooden boats (Vallam in Malayalam) and snake boats (Chundan Vallam in Malayalam), has historically influenced river hydrology. These boats, originally designed for quick manoeuvres in narrow waters and agile wartime navigation, have evolved into cultural symbols representing community pride and regional identity. Boating connects people with nature, allowing them to appreciate the beauty of the outdoors. Historically, riverine communities have deeply integrated non-mechanized country boats into their daily lives, using them for transportation, floating markets, and cultural events. These boats facilitate efficient movement, enabling commerce and connectivity within and between villages. Floating markets bring goods directly to people, fostering local economies and entrepreneurship. The traditional craftsmanship of these boats preserves cultural heritage, while their environmentally friendly operation minimizes pollution. Additionally, country boats enhance community resilience by providing mobility during natural disasters and serving as platforms for mobile education and healthcare services. This sustainable practice underscores the community’s harmonious relationship with the river and their environment.

In Kerala, boating has been one of the oldest modes of transportation, contributing to the cleaning of waterways and enhancing water flow. Nonetheless, the construction of small bridges across rivers has reduced the prevalence of boating.

The Tropical Institute of Ecological Sciences (TIES) is working to raise awareness among communities about the importance of sustainable boating practices to enhance both cultural and ecological values. By promoting these practices, TIES aims to restore the cultural significance of boating while protecting and improving river health.

The term "Riparia" beautifully embodies the essence of "along the river margin." Riparian vegetation collectively refers to the array of plant life thriving along these river margins. This unique zone, bridging the aquatic and terrestrial realms, boasts distinctive features such as hydric soil, a rich diversity of flora and fauna, intricate community structures, and symbiotic relationships. It stands as an exceptional habitat, catering to a multitude of both aquatic and terrestrial creatures, including several species that use the area for breeding.

Riparian trees serve as guardians against highland runoff, assuming a vital role in the filtration, interception, and deposition of soil particles. In doing so, they effectively combat erosion and offer stability to the riverbanks. Tragically, this invaluable ecosystem has fallen victim to various development activities.

TIES, with its Adopt A River project, determined to safeguard these precious habitats by introducing native riparian trees. In a heartwarming show of unity, students from National Service Scheme Volunteers of JJMHSS, Yendayar; DBHSS, Kavumbaghom; and NSSHSS, Vaipur, along with the local community, planted a total of 150 riparian trees, spanning six distinct riparian species. These included Crateva magna, Chrysopogan zizanioides, Terminalia arjuna, Bambusa bambos, Humboldtia vahliana, and Ochreinauclea missions.

Engaging in this project was a momentous occasion for many, as it served as their very first introduction to the river that meandered through their beloved hometown. For the students involved, this experience was nothing short of transformative, forging a deep and lasting connection with the natural beauty of their surroundings. Notably, the local community also rallied together, demonstrating their unwavering commitment to protect the invaluable vegetation that graced the riverbanks. To ensure the safety and growth of each planted sapling, dedicated tree guards were meticulously placed around every plant, underscoring the collective responsibility for the environment. The project's impact extended to critical locations, with the Sasthamkoickal region, the picturesque Keecherivalkadavu bridge area, and the scenic Yendayar to Koottickal region emerging as primary sites for planting these saplings, strategically chosen to maximize their ecological contribution to the riparian zone.