The Bharathapuzha

 Bharathapuzha, also known as the Nila River, is the second-longest river in Kerala, India, and one of the most iconic and culturally significant rivers in the state.



Geography and Course

Bharathapuzha originates from the Anamalai Hills in the Western Ghats and flows through the districts of Palakkad, Thrissur, and Malappuram before emptying into the Arabian Sea. The river is approximately 209 kilometers long and has a drainage area of around 6,186 square kilometers.



Tributaries

Bharathapuzha has several tributaries, including:



1. *Gayathripuzha*: Originates from the Anamalai Hills and joins Bharathapuzha near Palakkad.

2. *Kurumali River*: Joins Bharathapuzha near Thrissur.

3. *Kanjirappuzha*: Joins Bharathapuzha near Mannarkkad.



Cultural Significance

Bharathapuzha has immense cultural significance in Kerala, particularly in the regions through which it flows. The river is revered as a sacred entity and is associated with several myths and legends.



Temples and Festivals

There are several temples and festivals associated with Bharathapuzha, including:



1. *Thiruvilwamala Temple*: A famous temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, located on the banks of Bharathapuzha.

2. *Karthika Deepam*: A festival celebrated on the banks of Bharathapuzha, where devotees light lamps and offer prayers to the river.

3. *Valluvanad Boat Festival*: A festival celebrated on the banks of Bharathapuzha, where traditional boats are decorated and raced.



Irrigation and Agriculture

Bharathapuzha is a vital source of irrigation for the regions through which it flows. The river supports a wide range of crops, including:



1. *Rice*: The primary crop cultivated in the regions surrounding Bharathapuzha.

2. *Coconut*: A major crop cultivated in the regions surrounding Bharathapuzha.

3. *Spices*: A variety of spices, including pepper, cardamom, and ginger, are cultivated in the regions surrounding Bharathapuzha.



Environmental Concerns

Bharathapuzha faces several environmental concerns, including:



1. *Pollution*: The river is polluted by industrial effluents, agricultural runoff, and domestic waste.

2. *Sand Mining*: Excessive sand mining has led to erosion of the riverbanks and degradation of the ecosystem.

3. *Climate Change*: Climate change has altered the river's flow patterns, affecting agriculture and irrigation.



Conservation Efforts

Several conservation efforts are underway to protect Bharathapuzha, including:



1. *River Conservation Plan*: A comprehensive plan to conserve the river and its ecosystem.

2. *Watershed Development*: Efforts to develop and protect the watershed areas surrounding the river.

3. *Community Engagement*: Initiatives to engage local communities in river conservation and management.



In conclusion, Bharathapuzha is a vital and culturally significant river in Kerala, supporting agriculture, irrigation, and a wide range of ecosystems. However, the river faces several environmental concerns, and conservation efforts are necessary to protect and preserve this iconic river.

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