Geography and Map
1. Geographical Features and Boundaries
Spread across an area of 23.35 square kilometers, Desamangalam Grama Panchayat features a diverse terrain comprising hills, steep slopes, and flat agricultural plains. Numerous natural streams flow through the region and drain into the Nila River (Bharathapuzha). The soil profile varies across the landscape, with laterite soil (red soil) predominantly found on the hillsides, and fertile alluvial and clay soils occupying the lowlands and plains.
Boundaries:
- East: Vallathol Nagar Grama Panchayat and the Bharathapuzha River
- West: Thirumittacode Grama Panchayat
- South: Varavoor Grama Panchayat
- North: Bharathapuzha River
2. Water Resources and Ecological Challenges
The Bharathapuzha River forms a major natural border for this scenic panchayat, which is characterized by undulating hills, valleys, and streams. While the river serves as a vital source of water management, the region faces a unique seasonal challenge:
- Monsoon Runoff: During the rainy season, the entire volume of rainwater received over this terrain drains rapidly into the river and flows into the Arabian Sea within 24 hours.
- Summer Water Scarcity: Due to this rapid runoff and lack of sustained water retention, the region experiences acute water scarcity during the peak summer months.
- Recent Mitigation: However, with the successful completion of the Chengamanad Kunnu (Chenganamkunnu) Regulator, water availability in the Bharathapuzha has significantly improved, ensuring a steady water supply.
3. Agriculture and Land Use
The ongoing democratic decentralization initiatives in Kerala have immensely accelerated the developmental progress of this region. At a time when food security is being seriously deliberated, boosting agricultural production has become imperative for sustainable progress.
The current land-use distribution for agriculture within the Panchayat is as follows:
| Land Category / Cultivation Type | Area (in Hectares) |
|---|---|
| Paddy Cultivation (Wetland) | 310 Ha |
| Homestead Cultivation (Dryland) | 340 Ha |
| Cultivable Fallow Land (Wetland) | 5 Ha |
| Cultivable Fallow Land (Dryland / Homestead) | 30 Ha |
| Uncultivable Fallow Land | 10 Ha |
4. Demographic Profile
The total population and social structure of Desamangalam Grama Panchayat are detailed below:
- Total Population: 24,754
- Female: 12,521
- Male: 12,233
Social Categories:
- Scheduled Caste (SC) Population: * Total: 3,754 (Females: 1,914 | Males: 1,840)
- Total SC Households: 470
- Scheduled Tribe (ST) Population: * There is 1 Scheduled Tribe family consisting of 4 members.
