PCB plans digital mapping of Periyar
The Hindu
It aims to help researchers come up with projects to address pollution of the river
The State Pollution Control Board (PCB) plans to carry out digital mapping of canals and drains leading to the Periyar as part of the proposed Periyar Action Plan.
Mapping will be done along the three stretches of the river that include Idukki, Idukki-Ernakulam border (Neriamangalam) to Aluva and Mangalapuzha branch in Thrissur district and Aluva to Eloor ferry, covering industrial areas in Eloor, Edayar, and Kalamassery.
Data from digital sources like Google Earth and Geographical Information System (GIS) will be used to map the canals and drains flowing into the river along these stretches. The land use pattern and sources of pollution could be identified using the data. It will be mapped digitally to help researchers and local bodies come up with restoration and remedial plans under the Periyar Action Plan.