Kerala Declares Tidal Flooding a State-Specific Disaster

Kerala has declared tidal flooding along its coastline a State-specific disaster, enabling victims to receive financial assistance under the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF). The decision marks the first time in India that tidal flooding has been officially recognised as a disaster category by a State. The move follows repeated instances of sea water ingress causing loss of life, property, and livelihoods in vulnerable coastal regions.

What Is Tidal Flooding?

Tidal flooding in Kerala occurs when the Arabian Sea temporarily rises above a defined threshold, inundating low-lying coastal areas. Unlike cyclone-induced storm surges, this phenomenon takes place twice daily and intensifies during full and new moon phases.

The situation worsens when high tides coincide with coastal storms and spring tides. Seawater enters inland through rivers, backwaters, and canals, increasing both the depth and spread of flooding. Nine coastal districts are particularly vulnerable to such recurrent sea incursions.

Legal Basis Under Disaster Management Act

Ordinarily, only extreme natural events qualify for assistance under SDRF norms. Since tidal rise is a routine phenomenon, it was not previously covered. However, Section 2(d) of the Disaster Management Act permits a State to classify a natural event as a disaster if it causes substantial damage to life, livelihood, and property.

Kerala invoked this provision, arguing that coastal high-tide flooding exceeds normal limits in many areas. The declaration ensures compensation and relief measures for affected families, similar to those provided during floods or cyclones.

Why Kerala Is Uniquely Vulnerable

Kerala’s coastal topography increases exposure. Parts of Alappuzha district, including the Kuttanad region, lie below sea level. Kochi city is barely above sea level, making it susceptible to seawater intrusion beyond the high tide line.

Areas such as Vypin, Chellanam, Edakochi, Perumbadappu, and Kumbalanghi frequently experience tidal flooding. Around 10% of the State’s population is estimated to be affected. Siltation of rivers, reduced water-carrying capacity, and construction in floodplains aggravate the problem. Unlike monsoon floods, tidal flooding can occur year-round.

Important Facts for Exams

• Section 2(d) of the Disaster Management Act allows States to declare State-specific disasters.
• Spring tides occur during full and new moon phases.
• High Tide Line (HTL) demarcates the maximum reach of sea water.
• Kuttanad region in Kerala lies below sea level.

Other State-Specific Disasters in Kerala

Kerala has previously notified coastal erosion, lightning, strong winds, soil piping, heatwave, sunstroke, sunburn, and human-wildlife conflict as State-specific disasters. Recently, the shipwreck of MSE Elsa 3, which capsized 14.6 nautical miles off the Kerala coast in May 2025, was also declared a State-specific disaster due to environmental and economic risks.