KERALA LAND BUYER'S COMPANION HANDBOOK
Architect Shahdad Karim
PART II: Natural Factors
Chapter
12: Potential Risks like Landslides or Flooding
Check for any potential
risks like landslides or flooding.
If you are planning to buy a property in Kerala, it is essential to be aware of
the potential risks like landslides or flooding that could affect the safety
and value of the property. In this chapter, we will explore the risks of
landslides and flooding in Kerala and how homebuyers can check for potential
risks before making a purchase.
Landslides in Kerala
Landslides are a common occurrence in
Kerala, particularly in the Western Ghats region. The Western Ghats is known
for its rich biodiversity and scenic beauty. However, the region is also prone
to landslides due to its rugged terrain, heavy rainfall, and deforestation.
Landslides can be triggered by a
variety of factors, including heavy rainfall, soil erosion, and human
activities like mining or construction. When the soil on a slope becomes
unstable, it can give way and slide downhill, taking everything in its path
with it. Landslides can be extremely destructive and can cause significant
damage to homes and property.
It is essential to check for
potential landslide risks in the area. The first step is to research the
location of the property and the surrounding area. If the property you are
considering is located on a steep slope or in an area with a history of
landslides, it may be at risk.
The type of soil in the area can also
affect the risk of landslides. Certain types of soil, such as clay or silt, are
more prone to landslides than others. If the area has a high concentration of
these types of soil, it may be at risk of landslides.
Proper drainage is crucial in
preventing landslides. If the area has poor drainage or if the property is
located in a low-lying area that is prone to flooding, it may be at risk of
landslides.
Trees and other vegetation can help
stabilize slopes and prevent landslides. If the area has been deforested or if
there is a lack of vegetation, it may be at risk of landslides.
Human activities like construction
can also increase the risk of landslides. If there is a lot of construction
activity in the area, it may be at risk of landslides.
To check for potential landslide
risks in the area, you can consult with a local geologist or a civil engineer.
They can evaluate the property and the surrounding area and provide you with an
assessment of the risks. It is always better to be safe than sorry and taking
the time to assess the risk of landslides can save you a lot of trouble in the
long run.
Flooding in Kerala
Flooding is another potential risk
that homebuyers in Kerala should be aware of. The state experiences heavy
rainfall during the monsoon season, which can lead to flooding in low-lying
areas. Additionally, the state has several rivers and backwaters that can
overflow and cause flooding.
Flooding can cause significant damage
to homes and property and can also pose a risk to human life. If you are
planning to buy a home in Kerala, it is essential to check for potential flood
risks in the area.
The location of the property is an
important factor to consider when assessing the risk of flooding. Homes located
in low-lying areas or near rivers and backwaters are at a higher risk of
flooding. You should also check if the area has proper drainage systems and if
the property has adequate flood protection measures in place.
It is important to note that even if
the property is not located in a flood-prone area, it can still be at risk of
flooding if the surrounding area floods. Therefore, it is essential to check
the flood history of the area and if there have been any flood incidents in the
past.
One way to check for potential flood
risks is to consult with a local civil engineer or architect. They can evaluate
the property and the surrounding area and provide you with an assessment of the
risks. Additionally, you can also check with the local government authorities
and inquire about any flood control measures in place in the area.
Conclusion
Buying a home is a significant
investment, and it is essential to ensure that the property is safe and secure.
In Kerala, the risks of landslides and flooding are a concern for homebuyers,
particularly in certain areas of the state. Therefore, it is crucial to check
for potential risks before making a purchase.
When assessing the risks of
landslides and flooding, it is essential to consider the location of the
property, the type of soil in the area, the drainage systems, and the flood
history of the area. Consulting with local experts like geologists, civil
engineers, or architects can provide you with valuable insights into the risks
of landslides and flooding in the area.
Finally, it is also essential to ensure
that the property has adequate insurance coverage to protect against any damage
caused by landslides or flooding. Homebuyers should carefully review the
insurance policies and ensure that they cover these risks.
In conclusion, by taking the time to assess
the risks of landslides and flooding, homebuyers in Kerala can make an informed
decision and choose a property that is safe and secure.
