KERALA LAND BUYER'S COMPANION HANDBOOK
Architect Shahdad Karim
PART II: Natural Factors
Chapter
13: Wetlands, Water Bodies and Protected Areas
Check for the presence of
wetlands, water bodies, or protected areas nearby.
When you are looking to buy land in
Kerala, it is important to consider the presence of wetlands, water bodies, or
protected areas nearby. These areas are often protected by law to preserve
their natural habitat and ecological balance. As a potential landowner, you
should be aware of these protected areas and understand the regulations
surrounding them.
Wetlands are areas where water covers
the soil or is present at or near the surface of the soil for most of the year.
These areas provide a habitat for a variety of plants and animals, including
migratory birds, amphibians, and fish. Wetlands are also important for
maintaining the quality of water in rivers and lakes, and for controlling
flooding.
In Kerala, wetlands are protected
under the Kerala Conservation of Paddy Land and Wetland Act, 2008. This law
prohibits the conversion of paddy land and wetlands for non-agricultural
purposes. It also requires the government to identify and protect wetlands in the
state.
Water bodies such as lakes, ponds,
and rivers are also important natural resources that require protection. They
provide a source of drinking water, support fisheries and agriculture, and
provide recreation opportunities. In Kerala, water bodies are protected under
the Kerala Protection of River Banks and Regulation of Removal of Sand Act,
2001. This law prohibits the removal of sand from riverbanks and regulates the
activities that can take place in the vicinity of rivers and other water
bodies.
Protected areas are designated areas
of land and water that are set aside for the protection of biodiversity and
ecosystems. These areas include national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, and
biosphere reserves. Protected areas are important for preserving rare and
endangered species of plants and animals, and for maintaining ecological
balance.
In Kerala, there are several
protected areas, including the Silent Valley National Park, Periyar National
Park, and the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary. These areas are protected under the
Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, which prohibits hunting, poaching, and other
activities that can harm wildlife and their habitat.
When looking to buy land in Kerala, it
is important to be aware of the presence of wetlands, water bodies, and
protected areas. These areas are important natural resources that require
protection to maintain their ecological balance and biodiversity. Before buying
land, it is important to check with the local authorities and ensure that your
property is not in violation of any laws protecting these areas.
If your property is located near a
protected area or wetland, you may need to obtain special permits or
permissions to undertake any construction or development activities. These
regulations can vary depending on the specific location of your property and
the nature of the proposed development.
To avoid any legal hassles or fines, it
is important to work with local authorities and environmental experts to
understand the regulations and procedures surrounding the development of land
near protected areas and wetlands. This can help you make informed decisions
about the feasibility and potential impact of your development plans.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when buying land in
Kerala, it is important to be aware of the presence of wetlands, water bodies,
and protected areas nearby. These areas are important natural resources that
require protection, and their presence can impact your development plans. By
understanding the regulations and procedures surrounding the development of
land near these areas, you can make informed decisions and avoid any legal
hassles or fines.
