GEOMORPHOLOGY AND TERRAIN CHARACTERISTICS OF VAMANAPURAM RIVER BASIN, SOUTHERN KERALA, INDIA

摘要

The geomorphology and terrain characteristics of Vamanapuram River Basin (VRB) on southwest coast have been studied. The geomorphologic units delineated in VRB are low rolling terrain, moderately undulated terrain, hilly area, highly undulated terrain, coastal plain, flood plain, isolated hill, backwater system (Kayal), scarp slope and beach (in the order of decreasing abundance). The main physical and anthropogenic factors controlling ground water potential in VRB are highlighted. The ground water potential of different geomorphologic units in VRB is examined. The qualitative studies reveals that ground water in the different geomorphologic units except in the coastal plain contains chemical constituents and is within the maximum permissible limit proposed by the WHO and Bureau of Indian Standards, and the water is suitable for drinking water purpose.