Image Source: Brendanpuck
About Thanneermukkom Bund
The Thanneermukkom Bund, located in Alappuzha district of Kerala, is one of the largest mud regulators in India. Built across the Vembanad Lake, it is a vital infrastructure project designed to control tidal action and prevent saltwater intrusion into the fertile paddy fields of Kuttanad, Kerala’s renowned “Rice Bowl.” The bund plays a crucial role in agriculture, water management, and local livelihoods, while also being a notable landmark for travelers exploring the backwaters of Alappuzha.
Geography
Location: Situated at Thanneermukkom in Alappuzha, the bund separates the freshwater zone from the brackish water area of Vembanad Lake.
Length: Approximately 1,252 meters (4,108 feet).
Design: Constructed as a mud dam with sluice gates, it regulates the flow of water between the lake and the sea.
Purpose: Primarily built as part of the Kuttanad Development Scheme to allow year-round cultivation of rice in the low-lying paddy fields of Kuttanad.
The Thanneermukkom Bund divides Vembanad Lake into two sections:
Freshwater Zone – Supports irrigation and farming activities in Kuttanad.
Brackish Water Zone – Maintains the natural saline ecology near the coast.
Agricultural and Economic Importance
Kuttanad’s below-sea-level farming depends heavily on the bund. By preventing saltwater intrusion, the Thanneermukkom Bund enables:
Double and triple paddy cropping annually in Kuttanad.
Expansion of rice cultivation, boosting Kerala’s food production.
Support for freshwater aquaculture, including fish and prawn farming, which sustains local livelihoods.
The bund has transformed the hydrology of Vembanad Lake, making agriculture more reliable and profitable for thousands of farmers in the region.
Tourism and Attractions
Thanneermukkom Bund is not only a functional structure but also a popular tourist destination:
Sightseeing – The scenic view of the vast lake, paddy fields, and backwaters makes it a favorite spot for photographers.
Birdwatching – Migratory and resident birds often visit the surrounding areas, especially during the winter months.
Boat Tours – Visitors can explore the backwaters near the bund and enjoy houseboat cruises along Vembanad Lake.
Nearby Attractions – Proximity to Alappuzha town, Kumarakom, and Kuttanad paddy fields makes the bund a convenient stop for tourists exploring the Kerala backwaters.
Environmental Concerns
While the Thanneermukkom Bund benefits agriculture, it has also created ecological challenges:
Disrupted fish migration – Prevents prawns and certain fish species from moving upstream, affecting local fisheries.
Weed growth – Promotes the growth of invasive water hyacinth in freshwater zones.
Reduced natural flushing – Leads to stagnation in certain areas, affecting water quality.
Impact on biodiversity – Alters the natural ecology of Vembanad Lake, causing imbalances in aquatic life.
Efforts are ongoing to balance agricultural needs with ecological preservation, including controlled opening of sluice gates and regular removal of water hyacinth.
Best Time to Visit
November to February – Pleasant weather for sightseeing, photography, and boat trips.
Sunrise and Sunset – The lake views from the bund offer stunning reflections, ideal for nature enthusiasts and photographers.