Question

Which river, also called Kallayi Puzha and Choolikanadi, has gold deposits along its banks and was the focus of Kerala’s first major environmental struggle?

• A. Chaliyar
• B. Pamba
• C. Chalakudy
• D. Neyyar

Answer 1

Answer:

A. Chaliyar

• Correct Answer : Option A) Chaliyar River

• The Chaliyar River, also known as Kallayi Puzha and Choolikanadi, is one of the major rivers flowing through northern Kerala. This river became historically significant due to two main factors mentioned in the question:

• Gold deposits: The Chaliyar River is known to have gold deposits along its banks. These deposits were historically significant and contributed to the economic importance of the region.

• Environmental struggle: The Chaliyar River was the site of Kerala's first major environmental movement, known as the "Chaliyar Struggle" or "Chaliyar Satyagraha." This struggle began in the late 1970s against the pollution caused by the Gwalior Rayons factory (later known as Grasim Industries) at Mavoor. The factory was discharging effluents into the river, causing severe water pollution and health issues for local communities. This environmental movement lasted for about two decades before the factory eventually closed in 2001.

• The struggle is considered a landmark in Kerala's environmental history and one of the first major organized environmental movements in the state, bringing attention to industrial pollution and its impact on water bodies and local communities.