Cherukunnapuzha

Cherukunnapuzha is a minor but ecologically significant tributary of the Mangalam River, flowing through the Alathur Taluk of Palakkad district in the south Indian state of Kerala. Although comparatively small in scale, the river forms an important component of the wider river network that ultimately contributes to the Bharathapuzha, Kerala’s second-longest river. Its hydrological course, connections with adjoining streams, and linkage with major river systems situate Cherukunnapuzha within the broader environmental setting of central Kerala.

Geographical Course and Hydrological Features

Cherukunnapuzha originates in the undulating terrain of Alathur Taluk, an area characterised by a mix of agricultural land, minor hill ranges, and village settlements. As the river progresses through its course, it merges with several small streams in the region. These converging water channels collectively develop into a more substantial flow that forms part of the Mangalam River system.
The confluence of Cherukunnapuzha with the Mangalam River occurs near the Mangalam Dam, a key irrigation structure in Palakkad district. This dam and the surrounding watershed form an essential part of local water management, supporting paddy cultivation and other agricultural activities in the region. The integration of Cherukunnapuzha into this system enhances the downstream water volume, particularly during the monsoon months when the tributaries experience increased flow.

Relation to the Mangalam River System

The Mangalam River, formed by the merging of Cherukunnapuzha with other regional streams, stands as the largest tributary feeding the Gayathripuzha River. It travels through varied landscapes, providing water resources to settlements, agricultural lands, and ecological habitats along its route. The alignment of Cherukunnapuzha with this river extends the hydrological influence of the smaller stream over a wider region.
From the point of confluence at Mangalam Dam, the Mangalam River continues towards Plazhi, a locality situated close to the boundary dividing Thrissur and Palakkad districts. This downstream journey is marked by gradual changes in terrain and land use, as the river moves from the more elevated zones of Alathur into the transitional plains leading towards central Kerala.

Linkage with Gayathripuzha and Bharathapuzha River Basins

Upon reaching Plazhi, the waters of the Mangalam River turn towards the Gayathripuzha, marking a significant shift in the river’s orientation and its integration into the larger river basin. The Gayathripuzha is one of the major tributaries of the Bharathapuzha, Kerala’s celebrated river known historically for its cultural, economic, and ecological significance.
At Mayannur, the Gayathripuzha merges with the Bharathapuzha, combining the waters originating from Cherukunnapuzha and various other tributaries. The Bharathapuzha then continues its westward journey before finally draining into the Arabian Sea. In this interconnected system, Cherukunnapuzha plays a contributory role in maintaining hydrological continuity across multiple districts and river networks.

Environmental and Regional Importance

The river’s presence supports a variety of ecological functions, including soil moisture retention, groundwater replenishment, and the maintenance of riparian habitats. The catchment area surrounding Cherukunnapuzha supports agricultural livelihoods, with crops such as paddy, coconut, and banana relying on seasonal water availability.
The broader Bharathapuzha river basin, to which Cherukunnapuzha ultimately contributes, has long been central to the cultural identity of Kerala. While Cherukunnapuzha itself may not hold direct cultural associations, its hydrological contribution forms part of the environmental framework sustaining settlements, agricultural practices, and local economies across Palakkad and Thrissur districts.