Kerala Declares Tide Flooding a State Disaster

In a landmark decision, Kerala has declared tide flooding a state-specific disaster, marking the first instance of such a notification in the country. The state government made this declaration due to the significant and persistent coastal flooding along its approximately 590 km shoreline, with nine of its 14 districts situated on the coast. This phenomenon occurs when tidal waves breach the legally defined High Tide Line, with risks amplified during spring tides, especially in vulnerable low-lying regions like Alappuzha and Ernakulam.

Previously, routine tidal rises were not categorized as disasters under State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) norms, hindering financial aid. However, leveraging the Disaster Management Act, Kerala now formally recognizes 'coastal high-tide flooding/sea incursion' as a disaster. This allows financial assistance to be provided to the lakhs of affected individuals, addressing issues like seawater entering residential areas through rivers and backwaters. Contributing factors include land use deficiencies and siltation, exacerbating flooding that now occurs with greater frequency and intensity.

Unlike rainfall-dependent floods, tidal flooding can happen year-round, underscoring the importance of this declaration. The move ensures that victims of coastal high-tide flooding receive support comparable to those affected by other natural disasters under SDRF guidelines. This strategic notification aims to provide much-needed relief and support to the approximately 10% of the state's population impacted by these recurring events.