IRN- KERALA

21 organisations, movements and activists are associated with Save Idukki campaign. One fellow is associated full time with the programme. Besides this, many environmentalists, social workers, nature lovers, literacy workers, and government officials etc. based in Ernakulam and Idukki districts lend support to this campaign.

The Periyar dam and other small dams built over the river Periyar and its tributaries along with the surrounding industries have caused enormous environmental degradation in the region especially in Idukki district. Encroachments on the riverbanks and in forestlands are another major issue. Idukki being a hilly terrain landslide, soil erosion is common in the region. The region is also earthquake prone. Chemical pesticides and fertilizers used in the estates and orchards have further contributed to the problem. SIC aims at protecting and reducing pollution of the rivers in Idukki district in Kerala.

Through the PSP process many of the issues in the region were debated and discussed with the local communities. The activities cover 8 blocks in the district.

INTERVENTIONS, IMPACT AND ISSUES

- 22 SHGs formed.

- Good rapport and support from environmental, activists and movement based groups.

- District level networking of youth groups.

- Local forest department officials supportive to a certain extent.

- Able to mobilise local resources (food, providing accommodation, publication and finances) for all the programmes.

- Detailed study and documentation on the Periyar River done and published.

- People’s organisations and groups strengthened.

- It is a vast area and there is only one fellow who has to manage the entire programme.

- Idukki being a hilly area transport and travel are a problem.

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