| Stability studies Conducted by the National Centre for Earth Science Studies and the National Centre for Coastal Research. Recommendations to stabilize the cliff using soil-binding plants, coir mats, and improved drainage systems. Experts suggest banning vehicle traffic near the cliff and forming a task force to protect this heritage site. |
- Varkala Cliff, located about 40 kilometres from Thiruvananthapuram in Kerala, is a scenic and geologically significant site. It offers breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea.
- The 6-km-long, 30-meter-high cliff formation dates back 23 million years, as per the Geological Survey of India.
- In 2014, the Geological Survey of India declared the red cliffs at Varkala the 27th National Geological Monument to pave the way for a national geo-park.
- Varkala is Kerala’s only beach with such a cliff, making it unique in a state known for its flat shoreline.
- Recently, concerns about the cliff’s stability have grown due to erosion. Various spots on the cliff have started caving in.
- Pruning of tree branches near the cliff edge has also been done to prevent further erosion.
- The cliff has a strong laterite layer on top but is underlain by softer sandstone and carbonaceous clay, leading to instability.
- Inadequate drainage systems and the weight of structures on top exacerbate the erosion.
Dig Deeper: List all the Geo-Heritage sites of India.
