Thanneermukkom

Location
Thanneermukkom is a  village in Alappuzha District of Kerala on the banks of Vembanad Lake.

Thanneermukkom Bund
Thanneermukkom Bund or Thannermukkom Salt Water Barrier was constructed as a part of the Kuttanad Development Scheme. The huge construction was built across Lake Vembanad and divides the lake into two parts – one with brackish water perennially and the other half with fresh water.

Benefits of Bund
The division of the lake prevents the intrusion of salt water into the low-lying areas of Kuttanad and tidal action also. The construction of the bund also facilitated two crops of paddy in a year and was a big boon to the farmers of Kuttanad.

The shutters are opened during the monsoon in June and closed after a few months. This helps in controlling floods. The bund also facilitates road transportation and connects Kottayam and Alappuzha through the Thanneermukkam and Vechoor villages on either side of the bund.

Environmental Impact of  Bund
It has however also created ecological problems, primarily, affecting the plant species of water. The backwaters which were abundant with fish and part of the staple food of the people of the region require a small amount of salt water for their breeding. The salt water barrier has caused deterioration of the catch of fish in the region.

Tourism
Thanneermukkom, the starting point of the bund, is a beautiful village. The tranquil village next to the lake is dotted with many places of worship. Its rustic charm has made it a favourite stop for tourists. To facilitate their comfortable stay at the village, the Kerala Tourism Development Corporation has set up a resort with all modern amenities.

Related posts:

1. Vembanad Lake
2. Kuttanad