The Flat-Top Sada of Konkan

The Flat-Top Sada of Konkan

Sub: Geo

Sec: Indian Physical Geo

Why in News

• The sada, unique flat-top lateritic plateaus of the Konkan region, have recently been the subject of biodiversity and ecosystem studies.

Konkan Sada:

• Konkan lies between the Arabian Sea and the Western Ghats, transitioning into flat-topped plateaus (sada) in Ratnagiri district.
• Sadas are formed through centuries of erosion and resemble the Kaas Plateau in Satara district, known for its rocky terrain.
• Sadawaghapur Plateau: Situated on the Tarle-Patan road in Patan tehsil of Satara district, this plateau is renowned for its vibrant wildflower blooms during the monsoon season, attracting tourists and nature enthusiasts.
• Barsu Sada: Located near Rajapur in the Ratnagiri district, Barsu Sada is notable for its ancient petroglyphs, offering insights into prehistoric human activities in the region.
• Study (2022–2024) recorded 459 plant species, including 105 endemic species.
• Monsoons transform the barren sada into a lush habitat for unique vegetation.
• Documented 31 reptile species, 13 amphibians, 169 bird species, and 41 mammal species.
• Vulnerable Indian flapshell turtle (Lissemys punctata), leopards, jackals, and migratory birds.
• Villages on the sada access water through open wells, springs, and perennial streams.
• Highly weathered lateritic soil acts as a natural rainwater catchment, replenishing groundwater.
• The region hosts 10,000-year-old geoglyphs, showcasing early human creativity.
• Locals practice traditional, pesticide-free farming of rice and millets (Eleusine coracana) on small sada patches during monsoons.
• Laterite stone extraction is a significant threat to the sada’s integrity.
• Being labelled as ‘wasteland’ in the Wasteland Atlas hinders its protection and recognition.

Indian Flapshell Turtle (Lissemys punctata):

• IUCN Status: Vulnerable
• Native Range: Found across South Asia, including India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and Bangladesh.
• Prefers freshwater ecosystems like ponds, rivers, marshes, and lakes.
• National Parks in India:
  • Keoladeo National Park (Rajasthan)
  • Kaziranga National Park (Assam)
  • Sundarbans National Park (West Bengal)

Geoglyphs:

• Large designs or motifs created on the ground, typically by removing soil or using rocks to contrast with the surrounding terrain.
• Found in Barsu Sada and other parts of the Konkan region, Maharashtra.
• Dates back approximately 10,000 years. Provides insights into prehistoric human life and their cultural expressions.