Varkala Cliff: A Geo-Heritage Site at Risk

Varkala Cliff: A Geo-Heritage Site at Risk

Sub: Env

Sec: Climate Change

Why in News

• The National Green Tribunal (NGT) recently called for a status report from the Geological Survey of India (GSI) and other authorities on the deteriorating condition of Varkala Cliff, a geo-heritage site in Kerala. Concerns have arisen due to the impact of unregulated tourism and climate change on the sensitive geological formation.

About Varkala Cliff:

• Varkala Cliff, located near Thiruvananthapuram in Kerala, is the largest geo-heritage site in the state.
• It was designated as India’s 27th National Geological Monument in 2014 by the GSI.
• The cliff offers stunning views of Varkala Beach and serves as a unique feature in Kerala’s otherwise flat coastline.
• The cliff is part of the Warkalli Formation, dating back to the Mio-Pliocene epoch (5.3 million years ago).
• Layers of laterite, sandstone, and carbonaceous clay form its structure, creating a rich ecosystem with diverse microhabitats.
• The sandstone beneath acts as an aquifer, supplying high-quality water to nearby areas.
• The cliff is a hub for tourism, often called a ‘mini-Goa’ for its unpolluted and serene environment.
• It is also significant historically, as Sri Narayana Guru promoted his inclusive religious philosophy here.

Factors Leading to Degradation:

• Unregulated Tourism: Unplanned development on the cliff has led to extensive unauthorized construction, including resorts, cafes, and parking spaces.
• Coastal Erosion and Climate Change: Large-scale port constructions at Kovalam and Vizhinjam have worsened coastal erosion, making Varkala a refuge for displaced tourists.
• Waste Mismanagement: Many eateries lack proper waste disposal systems, leading to wastewater seepage that erodes the cliff base.
• Violation of Regulations: Varkala is part of the Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) 3B, restricting construction within 200 meters of the High Tide Line.

What Are Geo-Heritage Sites?

• Geo-heritage sites are locations of geological significance that provide insights into the Earth’s evolutionary history, natural processes, and cultural connections.
• These sites are invaluable for scientific research, education, and tourism. They often feature unique geological formations, fossil beds, mineral deposits, and other significant landforms.
• The Geological Survey of India (GSI) is the primary authority for identifying and safeguarding these sites to preserve them for future generations.

Geo-Heritage Sites in India: