CHAPTER 3

THE STUDY AREA

 CHAPTER 3

3.0 THE STUDY AREA

As discussed in the previous chapters, Kerala has numerous water bodies and
waterways that provide distinctive opportunities for specific waterfront development
projects and scope for local and regional waterfront planning. The state’s administrative
capital, Thiruvananthapuram City, and the larger district – Thiruvananthapuram District
also exhibit diverse geographical and ecological characteristics with its numerous
waterways and natural systems. An area - Thiruvananthapuram Urban Agglomeration
(TUA) - is defined within the larger district for the purpose of this thesis. This chapter
discusses relevant aspects of this study area. It gives a brief overview of the history,
growth and development of the city of Thiruvananthapuram; provides brief descriptions
and various statistical data; and describes the waters and types of waterfront areas of TUA
in greater detail. The purpose of this chapter is to identify opportunities and challenges
for waterfront developments in the study area.

3.1 Defining the Study Area

The following recalls the information presented in the introductory chapter: The
study area for this research is the Thiruvananthapuram Urban Agglomeration (TUA). It
is the jurisdiction of Thiruvananthapuram Development Authority (TRIDA) and consists
of the major urban center of Thiruvananthapuram Municipal (TVM) Corporation and 10
surrounding panchayaths. TUA has a total area of 296.17 Sq. Km and the total population
as per the 2011 census is 16, 79,754. This is an increase from the 2001 census (11,
40,205). (As per the 2011 census provisional data, the entire Thiruvananthapuram District
with a total area of 2,192 Sq. Km had a total population of 3,301,427, recording a growth
of 2.25% from 2001. The density of the district is 1,508 people per Sq. Km).
Thiruvananthapuram Urban Agglomeration (TUA) includes Thiruvananthapuram
Municipal Corporation, one out-growth (Tumba) and one census town (Kadakampally).
As per the 2011 Census, TUA had 51% of the total urban population of the entire district.
The 2001 Census TUA accounted for 27.5% for the same. However, TMC CDP (2006)
had presented that without taking into account the growth potential of the city-region and
changing development plans, the city-region and TUA urban areas had been showing a
declining growth rate. This may be an indicator of the growing sprawl into urban fringes,

51
thereby actually increasing the urbanization trends. Detailed investigation is required to
evolve an accurate picture of the urbanization of TUA.

Figure 3.1 below shows the study area with Local Body and Village boundaries
and major waterways of TRIDA.

Figure 3.1: Study Area

Map Compiled with primary survey by the Author.

The waters from the mountains towards the east flows through the entire district
to eventually join the Lakshadweep Sea. Major canals, lakes and rivers flow through the
entire district, and the long coastline and the Lakshadweep Sea is a shared resource. This
requires a brief overview of Thiruvananthapuram to understand the larger impacts on
TUA’s waterways and water bodies. Additionally, as the study area is a part of the larger
district and as the economies and watersheds of the entire region are tied together, a
summary of the district is essential. A separate section in in this chapter specifically looks
at some selected water bodies and their associated waterfront areas. This intends to present

52
a comprehensive cross-section of the characteristics, issues, and potential opportunities
for development and planning of typical waterfronts all across the study area.

3.2 History, Growth and Development of Thiruvananthapuram

A quick overview of defining events shows that Thiruvananthapuram’s rich

history includes being a holy place (Thiru – Anantha – Puram meaning: Abode of
Anantha or Lord Vishnu), believed to have grown around Sree Padmanabha Swamy
Temple, the diety of the royal family of Travancore; a coastal center in 1684 by the
English East India Company at Anchu Thengu (now Anjengo) 32 Km North of
Thiruvananthapuram; a royal city and region (strengthened by Maharaja Marthanda
Varma (1729-1758) who ruled a state called Travancore of which Tiruvananthapuram
was an integral part); a capital city (shifted from Padmanabhapuram by Rama Varma in
1780); and a center of art and intellect (Kerala, 2006). Many sources of literature
describe this history, growth and development of Thiruvananthapuram. Asiarooms.com
(accessed 2012), (Kerala, 2006), Kerala Tourism (n.d), and (TVM Corporation, 2012)
present it to be one of India’s most ancient cities. The maps in below show the evolution
of Thiruvananthapuram City.

Figure 3.2: Evolution of Thiruvananthapuram City

Source: TVM Corporation Master Plan (Draft) (2012).

53
 A few Panchayath areas like Kadakampally, Attipra, Ulloor and Nemom have
increased the city area form 74.93 sq. km in 1991 to 141.74sq km in 2000. The district
has major institutions like Kerala University, Karyavattom in its North West zone, the
Techno Park College of Engineering and Loyola College of social science in its South-
East zone, center for development studies, center for earth sciences studies and southern
air command at Akkulam on to the East. The secretariat is at the central area of the city.
Recreational centers such as zoos, museum, parks, open spaces and other social cultural
centers are also located in the central zone of the city. Comparatively less development
that has taken place along the South and South-East of the city except the Kovalam, a
major tourist destination. With the Vizhinjam port proposed as an international container
transshipment terminal, this area has been recognized to have future developmental
potential. Arabian Sea/ the Indian territorial waters called Lakshadweep Sea to the West,
and the hilly terrain to the East (Western Ghats) are major physical barriers for growth in
the East-West direction. International airport near the sea has also been a barrier for
development towards the North-Western zone of the city. Residential land use occupies
56% and paddy fields are converting into other uses (TVM Corporation, 2012). A feature
of the development pattern in the city is that development is higher on the land abutting
major city roads than compared to the
Figure 3.3: Location of Thiruvananthapuram
development in the central areas.

3.3 Geographical Setting

3.3.1 Location
Thiruvananthapuram city is located
in the Southern state of Kerala, in the
Indian subcontinent. This is a coastal
state located at 8.5oN 76.9o E on the
West coast, near the Southern tip of
mainland India. Thiruvananthapuram
is a coastal city with 78 Km (48M) of
coastline along the shores of
the Arabian Sea on the West. It is
surrounded on the other sides by
Thirunelveli, a district of Tamil Nadu
Source: Compare Infobase Pvt. Ltd. Map not to scale.
Complied by the Author.

54
state towards the East, Kollam district towards the Northern boundary, and Parassala at
the southern-most extremity. The district is 54 Km (34M) away from Cape Comorin
(Kanya Kumari), the southern peninsular tip of India. Figure 3.3 shows the location of
Thiruvananthapuram City, Thiruvananthapuram District and its boundaries.

3.3.2 Topographical Features Figure 3.4: Kerala Topography

Thiruvananthapuram district has a
distinctive geography; it is built on seven
hills and by the Arabian Sea. The region
can be divided into three geographical
regions, the lowlands, the midlands and the
highlands. The lowland is a narrow stretch
comprising of shorelines, rivers and deltas,
dotted with coconut palms. The midland
region comprises of low hills and valleys
adjoining the Ghats. The highlands form
the eastern suburbs of the city.
(Trivandrumtourism, 2012).

The Kerala Agriculture

Department lists that the region’s forests
are spread over 3 forest ranges: Source: www.mapsofindia.com.
Map not to scale. Complied by the Author.
the Kulathupuzha range in the North;
Palode range in the middle; and the Paruthipalli range in the South. These forests are
broadly classified into 3 categories: Southern tropical wet evergreen forests; Southern

Figure 3.5: Forests near TUA

Source: Compare Infobase Pvt. Ltd. Map not to scale. Complied by the Author.

55
tropical and Semi-Evergreen forests; and Southern tropical moist deciduous forests
(Keralaagriculture, n.d). Figure 3.4 shows Kerala’s topography and Figure 3.5 shows the
forest cover for the larger region around TUA.

The topography and the forest cover is very important with respect to the
waterways and waterfront areas in TUA. Not only does this scenario provide aesthetic
value, but it also affects the natural flow, capacity and quality of all the water bodies.
Most of the important rivers and lakes originate in the Western Ghats and flow down to
the sea through the urbanized regions. Additionally, the diverse mix of green-cover
including all the forest categories, agricultural lands, mangroves, and urban parks and
open spaces with waterways and canals etc. affect the quality and environs of the water
bodies.

Thiruvananthapuram Municipal Figure 3.6: Kerala

Corporation - City Development Plan (TVM Backwaters and Rivers
2012) lists 3 rivers in the district –Neyyar
(originating in Agastyamala, the second
highest peak in the Western Ghats), Karamana,
and Vamanapuram; 10 major backwaters, 6
lakes – Veli, Kadinamkulam, Anchuthengu
(Anjengo), Kaappil, Akathumuri, and the
Edava-Nadayara lakes; 1 fresh water lake at
Vellayani in Thiruvananthapuram taluk; and
major canals (todus) - the Ulloor thodu and
Pattom thodu join at Kannammoola and flow
through the Amaihachan thodu and empty into
the sea. The major storm water drainage in
the district are the Veli and Akkulam lakes, and Source: www.mapsofindia.com.
Map not to scale. Complied by the Author.
the Edayak and Vellayani lakes in the north and
south respectively. Karamana and Killi rivers from the north-east pass through the city
and meet Edayar Island and water lagoons in the south-west. The city itself has five canals
– Ulloor thodu, Pattom thodu, Vanchiyoor thodu, Thekkinakara thodu and the TS
(Trivandrum-Shornur) canal. Surface run-off flows into these canals and many natural

56
ponds. TS canal runs north-south through the western part of the city and connects
Akkulam and Edayar lakes.

TUA’s navigable waterways add to the water transportation corridors. Figure 3.7
shows the backwater transportation network of Kerala till Kollam, which is a part of the
National Waterway III.

Figure 3.7: Backwater Transport Network - Kerala

Source: Compare Infobase Pvt. Ltd. Diagram not to scale.

Complied by the Author.

57
 As seen in all the maps, TUA is located next to the Lakshadweep Sea and
surrounded by seven hills on its Eastern side, the physical growth of TUA and
surroundings are dictated by the geography. Major transportation corridors, with larger
development in few nodal points also direct the city’s growth. With the city located on
the southernmost part of the state, its major transport corridors radiate toward the North
and North-East of the city.

Figure 3.7 highlights the parallel Figure 3.8: West Coast Canal –
linkages of road and water transportation. Proposed National Waterway III
Considering the history of TUA’s waterways
for water transportation, and looking at the
continued water transportation at the local
level from primary surveys, the official
backwater transportation network could be
extended from Kollam to include TUA.
Figure 3.8 shows the proposed Waterways
III till Kollam, situated 130 km north of
Thiruvananthapuram.

In light of these observations

regarding the water transportation in Kerala
and TUA, it is worth recalling an initial
discussion in the introductory chapter that
Thiruvananthapuram city and its waterways
Source: www.mapsofindia.com. Map not to
have been already recommended to being scale. Complied by the Author.

part of the proposed National Inland Water Way-3 which extends from Kollam.
Analyzing existing land uses, TVM Corporation (2012) presents that 7% of
Thiruvananthapuram district has water bodies, and with associated land uses between 8%
(Paddy fields – these are generally in water environs) and 10% (Parks and open spaces –
through primary surveys, it is seen that many of these areas have waterfronts and water
bodies), and only 3% is occupied by transportation (including the airport). This shows
that water has tremendous potential to be developed for transportation, waterfronts and as
urban public spaces. Appendix – I shows existing land uses, Appendix – IIa shows
tributaries of TUA, and Appendix – IIb shows road transportation networks.

58
3.4 Climatic Factors
Thiruvananthapuram district’s climate is considered to be hot-tropical. The
different forest categories all across the district not only add to the green cover but also
affect the climate favorably and induce rains. Although the low lying and coastal areas
are generally hot, the areas in the Western Ghats/mountain ranges experience cold
weather. The mean maximum temperature is 95 °F (35 °C) and the mean minimum
temperature is 69 °F (20 °C). December to February are the coolest months. The average
temperature goes down to 69 °F (20 °C) in these months. These months are generally
considered to be winter. The summer season is from February till May. The average
temperature goes up to 95 °F (35 °C) in these months.

The relative humidity is generally high with the Lakshadweep Sea towards the
West, and the district stretching North-South. The humidity reaches to about 95% during
the South-West monsoon. The South-West monsoon is from June to September and is the
main rainy season as district receives most of its annual rainfall in this season. The second
rainy season is the North-East monsoon. It is from October to November. The district also
gets thunderstorm rains in the pre-monsoon during April-May. The total annual average
rainfall in the district is about 1,500 mm (59 in) per annum.

3.5 Population Growth

In Kerala the population is equally spread across the entire area of the state. The
migration to urban centers is not substantial. However, daily commutation is more from
the surrounding regions to the urban centers. As per 2001 Census, urban population of
Kerala is 26 percent of the total population and the State ranks twelfth in urbanization rate
in the country. The urban population of Thiruvananthapuram district is high at 34 percent
of the total population. Table 3.1 compares the 2011 population of India, the state
(Kerala) and the district (Thiruvananthapuram).

Table 3.1: Population Comparisons – Total and Urban, 2011

Density
Area Urban %
Name 2011 Total (per
(Sq.km) Population Urban
Sq.km)
India - Country 3287240 1,210,569,573 382 3,77,105,760 32
Kerala - State 38863 3,33,87,677 859 82,66,925 40
Thiruvananthapuram
2192 33,01,427 1508 17,79,254 54
- District
Source: Census of India, 2011. Complied by the Author.

59
 Table 3.2 compares the 2001 population of India, the state (Kerala) and the district
(Thiruvananthapuram).

Table 3.1: Population Comparisons – Total and Urban, 2001

Density
Area Urban %
Name 2001 Total (per
(Sq.km) Population Urban
Sq.km)
India - Country 3,166,391 1,028,737,436 325 2,84,995,688 28
Kerala - State 38863 31,841,374 819 8,266,925 26
Thiruvananthapuram
2192 32,34,356 1476 10,91,661 34
- District
Source: Census of India, 2001. Complied by the Author.

There is a steady increase in urban population and urbanizing areas across Kerala
and Thiruvananthapuram District is not an exception. The district’s percentage of urban
population is higher than the state and national percentage. The sprawl and increase in the
boundaries of the district could be a reason for the higher urban population. TVM
Corporation (2012) supports this observation: in 1966, the city had a total area of 74.86
Sq.km, which increased to 141.74 Sq.km in 1990. In 2012, the total area was 215.86
Sq.km, which has been divided into 100 wards. TUA’s population has also experienced
steady growth along with increased urban area. Table 3.2 shows decadal comparisons of
the population for Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram District and TUA.

Table 3.2: Decadal comparison of population –

Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram and TUA
1991 2001 2011
Name Status
Census census Census
Kerala State 2,90,98,518 3,18,41,374 3,34,06,061
Thiruvananthapuram District 29,46,650 32,34,356 33,01,427
Urban
TUA – Study Area 8,26,225 8,89,635 16,79,754
Agglomeration
Source: Census of India. Complied by the Author.
Census of India also notes: The revised definition of urban agglomerations in Kerala led to results
for 2011 that are not comparable with previous census results, and with agglomerations in other
Indian states.

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 Thiruvananthapuram district has five urban areas namely, the Municipal
Corporation of Thiruvananthapuram, and the Municipal towns of Neyyattinkara,
Nedumangad, Attingal and Varkala. The statutory towns are located along the major
transportation corridors, with the towns of Neyyattinkara and Attingal along the NH-47
at about 20 km and 28 km to the south and north respectively from Thiruvananthapuram
city. Nedumangad town is about 20 km to the north east side of the city along Shencottah
road and Varkala town is at 40 km to the north – west along broad gauge railway line
(City Development Plan).

3.6 Waters bodies of TUA

TUA has many types of water bodies and water environments: 2 major lakes -
Veli, Akkulam; 1 fresh water lake at Vellayani; 2 rivers - Karamana and Killi; 5 major
canals – Ulloor thodu, Pattom thodu, Vanchiyoor thodu, Thekkinakara thodu and a part
of Parvathy Puthanar or the TS (Trivandrum-Shornur) Canal; 4 major storm water
drainages - Veli and Akkulam lakes in the North, and the Edayar and Vellayani lakes in
the South; and numerous ponds, streams and smaller canals in the neighborhoods all
across TUA. Plates 3.1, 3.2 and 3.3 show the different types of water bodies and their
environments with a variety of built elements and public spaces.

Plate 3.1: Navigable canal with access to the water.

Source: Author

61
 Plate 3.2: Padmanabhaswamy Temple Pond

Source: Author

Plate 3.3: Kovalam Beachfront resort

Source: Author

A note on TS Canal (Tiruvananthapuram/Trivandrum Shornur Canal, also called

as the Parvathy Puthanar) - This canal is part of the West Coast Canal (WCC) system
spanning a total length of 560 Km (KSIDC, n.d). It runs parallel to the National Highway
Bypass Road, starting from Kovalam, a few kilometers south of TUA, through the western
part of the city connecting Edayar and Akkulam Lakes, and eventually joins the
Ashtamudi Lake in Varkala District through the Varkala Tunnel.

The availability of major transportation corridors and importance with respect to

tourism, marketing facilities, religious institutions etc. has accelerated the development
of these urban centers. The increased urbanization is in direct conflict with natural water

62
resources. Although water has always been an integral part of TUA’s urban landscape,
the increase in population has combined with a lack of adequate urban utilities has exerted
enormous pressures on the natural water resources.

3.6.1 Urban Water Bodies, Water Supply and Drainage

Urban Water Bodies: As mentioned above, TUA has varied water bodies. These
contribute to a unique urban environment that is unparalleled in India. The vast majority
of these water bodies (including navigable waterways) are interconnected across TUA
and the larger region. This scenario not only creates an idyllic landscape in many
neighborhoods, but they also provide various opportunities for planning and urban design.
Plate 3.4, 3.5 and 3.6 show few more types of urban water bodies and their surroundings.

Plate 3.4: Charachira Pond.

Plate 3.5: Killiyar.

Source: Both photographs by the Author

63
 Plate 3.6: Shangumugam Beach

Source: Author

Some of the more important waterways and water bodies are being used in
different ways. The Shagumugam beach, Veli, Akkulam and Vellayani Lakes are
popular tourist destinations and provide economic and environmental benefits; the
Padmatheertham Tank/Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple Pond has religious
significance; the waters around Edyar Island and the Vizinjam Port has economic
development potential; the 78 km long coastline has a number of fisheries of which
Varkala, Anchuthengu, Poonthura, Vizhinjam and Poovar are some of the main
centers; and numerous neighborhood ponds and canals offer environmental and urban
aesthetic benefits along with opportunities for development as urban social spaces.

Water Supply: Karamana River with Peppara dam and Aruvikkara reservoir is
the main source of water supply. Peppara dam supplements water from the Aruvikkara
reservoir. In 2006 the water supply for the city and adjoining panchayats provided 190
mld of water as against a demand of 246 mld (TMC CDP, 2006). 81% of the population
depend on Kerala Water Authority (KWA) for their daily water, 9 water treatment plants
are functioning around the city, and Thiruvananthapuram Water Supply Scheme (TWSS)
has an installed capacity of 237MLD with a gap of 137MLD between production and
demand (TVM Corporation, 2012). The total demand shows an increase of 128MLD since
2006. KWA (n.d) also lists the availability of bottled water and water supply via tankers.

Drainage and Sanitation: Although the city had a network of underground

sewage system in 1945, which has been extended during different planning periods till

64
2010 to cover a total of 7 blocks, it has become inadequate to meet the current needs of
the entire city (KWA, n.d). The collected sewage is treated and disposed at a sewage farm
at Valiathura. However, the vast majority of sewage is let out from private properties
including residential and commercial uses into the surrounding water ways and standing
water bodies.

3.6.2 Attributes of Waterfronts and Waterfront Developments in TUA

All the different types of urban water bodies in TUA referred to here have various
waterfront areas. These waterfronts also exhibit a variety of characteristics with respect
to their built/natural environments. They embody the attributes of waterfronts identified
in the introductory chapter: They are urbanized/semi-urbanized areas with a variety of
land uses; they exhibit identifiable interactions between water and land uses; there are
many types of water bodies; the boundaries and shorelines may not be clearly defined in
many locations; jurisdictional boundaries of the lakes, canals and larger waters like the
sea are shared with neighboring districts, states and international water territories; and
there are many socio-economic and cultural influences. Plates 3.7-3.14 below provides
an analysis of the TS Canal through historic images. As this canal runs North-South
through TUA, the photos also portray a cross-section of the entire study area.

Plate 3.7 and 3.8: Waterfront areas then and now - Along TS Canal

Plate 3.9 and 3.10: The Vallakadavu Boathouse

Plates 3.7-3.10: Source: scorpiogenius.com. Compiled by the Author.

65
 Plate 3.11 and 3.12: Waterfront areas then and now - Along TS Canal

Plates 3.13 and 3.14: The famed Varkala Tunnel

Plates 3.11 – 3.14: Source: scorpiogenius.com. Complied by the Author

In the above images, comparing historic pictures and information with present day
images and information, Scorpiogenius.com (2009) shows that these old urban waterfront
areas were clean, navigable and well maintained. The deterioration and neglect have been
highlighted in contemporary pictures.

The waterfront areas along TS Canal and other navigable rivers had jettys and
boat/ferry stops. Loading and unloading facilities were available at Chackai and
Vallakkadavu (City Development Plan – Thiruvananthapuram). Built in 1820, the
Vallakadavu Boathouse was the hub of cargo and passenger transport for Travancore
State. The boathouse served as the starting point of journeys on the TS Canal. There were
long stretches of steps leading into the water to enable public access. The distinctive
sloping roofs, the long stretches of steps and other elements of vernacular styles gave
unique architectural character to the waterfronts. An active water transport with
economic, cultural and social activities gave life to the waterfront at the old boathouse. It
is now restored by TRIDA without any developed waterfront activity. The famed Varkala
Tunnel on the TS Cannel is now clogged with silt and invaded by weeds. The silting of
the canal has raised the water level under the tunnel. The structure of the tunnel is also

66
not maintained anymore. All the images above show the once vibrant urban waterfronts,
which are neglected now.

Other neighborhood water bodies and their waterfronts are also neglected and are
deteriorating. Silting, overgrowth of water hyacinth, direct sewage discharge into the
water bodies, polluted urban waters, lack of waterfront spaces for the public, and lack of
maintenance characterize the water bodies. Garbage dumping, inaccessible and neglected
waterfronts, etc. can also be seen. Rediscovery and redevelopment proposals have begun
with all the development plans and master plans identifying the need to restore TUA’s
waterways and waterfronts (For examples, see: TVM Corporation, 2012). Plates 3.15-
3.18 show the current condition of a number of water bodies.
Plates 3.15, 3.16, 3.17 & 3.18 (Clockwise):
Thekkinamkara Thodu, Ulloor Thodu, Sreevaraham Pond and the T. S canal.

Source: All Photographs by the Author.

3.7 Selected water bodies and waterfront areas of TUA for detailed study

Physical surveys and research for this paper identified 19 water bodies and their
environs for detailed study and to waterfront development. They are (in alphabetical
order): Akkulam Lake, Charachira Pond, Edayar Island, Karamana River, Killiyar,
Kovalam, Pattom Thodu, Padmanabhaswamy Temple Pond (Padmatheertham tank),
Shangumugham Beach, Sree Varaham Pond, Thekkinamkar Thodu, Thiruvallom, T.S

67
Canal, Ulloor Thodu, Vallakkadavu Boat Jetty, Vandhiyoor Thodu, Veli Lake, Vellayani
Lake, and Vizhinjam.

These have been carefully selected as they represent a cross-section of all the
different types of water bodies and associated environs in the study area. The selected
examples have lakes, rivers, in-land canals, ponds, constructed tanks, natural harbor,
coastlines, beach fronts, and an existing port. The selection of this diverse range of
examples also provides a typical study for the larger district, and in fact for other city-
regions of Kerala. Additionally, these water bodies and waterfronts exhibit a wide range
of characteristics, stages of planning, and stages of development or deterioration: similar
to the Vallakadavu Boathouse and TS Canal, some of the water bodies and waterfront
areas had seen better times with extensive usage and vibrant economies but have
deteriorated now; some of these examples continue to be used for tourism and recreation,
and the lakes continue to be a source of water for the district.

Figure 3.9: Location of the selected water bodies in TUA

Source: Google Maps. Scale: Not to scale. Compiled by the Author.

68
3.7.1 Details of the selected water bodies and waterfront areas

Tsukio (1984) as citied in Dong (2004) classified waterfront plans into three
categories: conservation, redevelopment and development. Conservation reuses and
restores existing or old waterfront properties by calibrated design and planning decisions.
Redevelopment aims to convert and revive harbors into new facilities. Development
creates new waterfronts for the present needs of an urban area and can include reclaiming
land from the sea or surroundings areas without any earlier waterfront uses.
The characteristics of the selected waterfront sites lend well to all these three
categories. They have been selected due their current economic, social and cultural
importance. The following details of each site provides an understanding of the above,
and highlight some of the impacts on the water bodies. The selected water bodies and
waterfronts are listed in alphabetical order.
1. Akkulam Lake: The Akkulam Figure 3.10: Akkulam Lake
Lake is one of the major lakes of
TUA and an extension of the Veli
Lake. It is a popular picnic
destination easily accessible by Akkulam Lake

road. However, it is getting

increasingly polluted as the city’s
waste reaches the Lake through the
Amayizahanjan and Ulloor canals.
Inland waterway connects the lake to
Figure 3.11: Charachira Pond
the sea. The waterfront areas along
the backwaters are not planned with
public access, and the open spaces
are not well maintained. The lake
surroundings need urban design
guidelines and regulations for new
constructions. Charachira Pond

2. Charachira Pond: This is a

constructed pond surrounded by
residential land uses. It is surrounded All satellite Maps: Source: Google Maps.
Scale: Not to scale. Compiled by the Author.

69
 by roads and does not have a buffer from the traffic or a dedicated space for the
public to walk around the pond. As the photographs show, the old embankment is
crumbling and the water is polluted.
Figure 3.12: Edayar Island
3. Edayar Island: Located 7Km from
the city, the island is home to 500
people and covers an area of 2SqKm
Edayar Island
(Kerala Travel Tourism, n.d). It is
situated near the Poonthura estuary,
is under Thiruvallam Corporation
and is within the Coastal Regulation
Zone (CRZ). The Karamana River
wraps around the island and the TS
canal ends into it. With its location
Figure 3.13: Karamana River
and ambience, the presence of
beaches and lagoons, the island has
resort tourism potential.

4. Karamana River: Karamana Karamana River

River with Peppara dam and
Aruvikkara reservoir is the main
source of water supply to the entire
district. However, most of its
waters are increasingly polluted by
Figure 3.14: Killiyar
urban areas through which it flows,
outgrowth of vegetation, vehicular
pollution from the roads around it,
Killiyar
and neglect from authorities to
maintain its entire stretch.

5. Killiyar: It is the main tributary of

Karamana River and originates from
Nedumangadu (fringe area adjacent
to TUA). The famous Attukal
All satellite Maps: Source: Google Maps.
Temple (of the Guiness Book of Scale: Not to scale. Compiled by the Author.

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 Worlds Records fame) is situated in the vicinity of this river. This river has
numerous bridges, abuts main roads, and is surrounded by residential and
commercial land uses. Big bill boards and signages spoil the urban aesthetics of
this beautiful river. Seawage outflows, garbage and overgrowth of vegetation,
impact its quality. Figure 3.15: Kovalam

6. Kovalam: An internationally
famous beach with calm waters,
Kovalam has three adjacent
beaches. The beach complex Kovalam
includes budget cottages,
Ayurvedic resorts, convention
facilities, shopping areas, and
yoga centers (Kerala Tourism,
n.d).

7. Pattom Thodu: Located within 5 Km. North of the CBD, in one of the most
popular suburbs of the city, it Figure 3.16: Pattom Thodu
has mixed use. It is surrounded
by many residential layouts. It
faces the same issues as other
Thodus (canals) in TUA;
garbage, sewage outflows, Pattom Thodu
neglect, many billboards and
signage, and deterioration of
bridges and embankments. All satellite maps: Source: Google Maps. Compiled
by the Author. Scale: Not to scale
8. Padmanabhaswamy Temple
Pond (Padmatheertham tank): Located in the Sree Padmanabhaswamy temple
complex, this tank is considered to be one of the oldest temple tanks in TUA.
Efforts have been periodically made to revive and restore its waters (The Hindu,
2007). As the tank has considerable religious and cultural importance, waterfront

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 development at this tank can Figure 3.17: Padmanabhaswamy Temple Pond
add significant value. Along
with cleaning the water, the Padhmanabhaswamy
Temple Pond
tank can be architecturally
restored and new
developments can be
planned to be non-intrusive
and non-polluting.

9. Shangumugham Beach:
Shangumugam beach is also a
popular tourist destination. Figure 3.18: Shangumugam Beach

TVM Corporation (2012)

recognizes a potential for
sustainable development and
Shangumugham Beach
eco-tourism in this area. Public
facilities are limited and the
beachfront is not designed for
waterfront usage. It has the
potential to be transformed into a vibrant public space, while still preserving the
natural environs.

10. Sree Varaham Pond: The largest Figure 3.19: Sree Varaham Pond
temple (Sree Varaham Temple)
tanks in TUA, this pond is said to be
more than 5,000 years old. This
tanks restoration was initiated by the
Public Works Department of
Thiruvananthapuram in early 2000s. Sree Varaham Pond
This pond hosts a popular boat race
called Vallamkali. The temple and
adjacent areas of the pond faces
All satellite maps: Source: Google Maps.
garbage issues despite its religious Compiled by the Author. Scale: Not to scale.

and cultural importance. Urban

72
 design also does not relate to the beauty of this pond and this calls for design
sensitivity. The periphery of the pond has the iron railings and rubble walls of the
temple property, followed by parking and service industries like car washing,
mechanic garages, etc. This contributes to the pollution of the pond. Pedestrian
paths and trails around the pond and removal of the small scale service industries
can enhance the waterfront all around the pond

11. Thekkinamkar Thodu: This Figure 3.20: Thekkinamkara Thodu

canal is mostly surrounded by
paddy fields, coconut plantations
and wet lands, and it is adjacent
Thekkinamkara Thodu
to busy highway corridors. The
highway leads South towards
Kanyakumari and on the North
towards Attingal (prominent
waterfront destination). This
canal has a low key but eco-sensitive characteristic. The waterfront areas exhibit
natural environment and does not have urban pollution like the other examples.
Conservation and preservation work can be implemented easily.

12. Thiruvallom: This is a portion Figure 3.21: Thiruvallom

of the Karamana River. On the
banks of Thiruvallom, the
historically important
Archeological Survey of India Thiruvallom

(ASI) site of Sree

Parasuramaswamy Temple is
located. The temple is said to
date back to the 12th-13th Century
All satellite maps: Source: Google Maps. Compiled
and belongs to Lord Parasurama
by the Author. Scale: Not to scale.
(main diety) is one of the ancient
temples of South India. This tributary thus has religious importance and is the site
to numerous religious gatherings.

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13. T.S Canal: The canal Figure 3.22: TS Canal
has been discussed in
detail earlier. It has
tremendous potential for
T.S.Canal
water transportation and
public access. TS canal
can be joined with the
National Waterways 3 to
extend it till Kovalam.
Canal-front walkways and trails, and other community spaces can be developed
to be used by residents of the surrounding neighborhoods.
Figure 3.23: Ulloor Thodu
14. Ulloor Thodu: The
Balasurahmanyaswamy Temple
is located in the vicinity of Ulloor
Thodu. This Thodu is in the
vicinity of Trivandrum Medical Ulloor Thodu

College, which is the biggest

referral hospital of Trivandrum
making it a major medical hub of
the entire district. It is well
connected with residential and
Figure 3.24: Vallakkadavu Boat Jetty
commercial land use. The Thodu
itself faces similar urban
pollution and impacts to its
waters and the waterfronts all
along the canal is neglected.
Vallakkadavu Boat
15. Vallakkadavu Boat Jetty: This Jetty
waterfront and its conditions
have been discussed in detail
earlier in this chapter.
All satellite maps: Source: Google Maps. Compiled
by the Author. Scale: Not to scale.
Scale: Not to scale

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16. Vanchiyoor Thodu: Figure 3.25: Vanchiyoor Thodu
Historically, it was the district
headquarters. It is the legal hub
even now with the district
courts. Characteristically, it
has residential and office
Vanchiyoor Thodu
complexes to serve the
functions of the court and
administration. It is one of the
most polluted urban canals. Anecdotally, this research found that property values
are coming down due to the pollution, smell and water clogging issues of the canal.

17. Veli Lake

Figure 3.26: Veli Lake
The lake offer economic and
environmental benefits to the
entire TUA. Along with STPs
and water treatment facilities, Veli Lake
lakefront development projects
have to be articulated with
clear visions. As a popular
backwater destinations and picnic spots, Akkulam and Veli Tourist Villages
(Kerala Tourism, n.d), and the District Tourism Promotion Council’s Boat Club
can be developed into better destinations (Mathew, 2013a) and (Mathew, 2013b).

18. Vellayani Lake: The name Figure 3.27: Vellayani Lake

means ‘largest fresh water
lake’ in the local language
from time immemorial.
During the course of this
research, people mentioned Vellayani Lake
that the water was once so
clear that their elderly
All satellite maps: Source: Google Maps. Compiled by
family persons recall seeing
the Author. Scale: Not to scale.
pebbles in the lake bed.

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 Characteristics of the Vellayani Lake adjoining areas consist of open spaces,
paddy fields, coconut cultivations, and a Government Agricultural University with
its own lands for farms. This lake is a source of potable water to the entire district.
It is affected by illegal sand-mining, improper drainage system, and imbalances in
the natural eco-system. Also contributing to the destruction is the fact that some
portion of the lake has been filled in with official approval to construct a bund-
road.

19. Vizhinjam Figure 3.28: Vizhinjam

Despite a vast
coastline with port
facilities at
Valiyathura and Vizhinjam

Vizhinjam, port
activities require
revival. Vizhinjam is a All satellite maps: Source: Google Maps. Compiled by the
harbor with a light Author. Scale: Not to scale.

house, and is believed to have been an ancient port. An International Deep-water

Container Transshipment Terminal at Vizhinjam has been proposed by various
development plans (VizhinjamPort.org, n.d) and (Kerala Ports, n.d). Vizhinjam
can be developed as an important harbor front with supportive land uses.

It is worth noting that the international airport is located near to the Akkulam-Veli
lakes, Shangumugam beach, and is next to the TS canal and the NH4 (National
Highway4) Bypass road. This unique location generates exciting opportunities
like eco-tourism, sustainable developments, and many types of community spaces
at the water. This chapter sets the stage for a discussion on types and
characteristics of waterfronts, the environmental issues facing TUA’s waterways
and water bodies, and the adoption of an ecological framework for the thesis in
the next chapter. Photographs of all the selected waterfront sites and their environs
are provided in Appendix – IIIa, IIIb and IIIc.

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