Mechanism, Studies Vital for Protecting Kochi’s Coastal Areas, Says Historian

KOCHI:
The current assessment of Kochi’s vulnerability to submersion is alarming, and it is vital to begin scientific studies and develop effective preventive measures, said writer and local historian Bony Thomas.

Thomas was speaking at ‘The Soil Assembly Meeting’ held on the sidelines of Kochi-Muziris Biennale (KMB 2025-26) of the Kochi Biennale Foundation (KBF) here.

“The Port of Muziris, which existed in the present Kodungalloor, was completely lost by the sea in the flash flood that occurred in 1341. When Muziris was ravaged, Kochi evolved as a major port,” he noted.

The islands near Kochi have many anecdotes related to past floods.

Thomas said several floods and disasters, including tsunamis, have impacted the area. He pointed out that the expansive coastal region at Fort Kochi, where thousands used to gather to burn “Pappanji” (a large effigy of an old man set ablaze in Fort Kochi on New Year’s eve as part of the Cochin Carnival) until a decade ago, has now changed into a small mound of soil

According to him, Kochi has lost kilometres of land in the last decade alone. The phenomenon Vrischika Veli occurs every year, leading to floods on the islands near Kochi Port. Its impact is worsening each year, causing canals to be inundated and resulting in waterlogging on roads, he said.

Thomas added that these climatic changes must be addressed seriously by taking stringent measures to conserve the earth.

The Soil Assembly Meeting, curated by renowned environmentalist and artist Meena Wari, aims to discuss the relationship between art and the environment and thereby bring about holistic change in society by bringing together artists and researchers from around the world.