What is Kayal in Geography?

Answer: In the Indian context, Kayal refers to the backwater (a part of a river/lagoon with less or no current), lying alongside the main channel. It is mainly separated from the sea by natural barriers like sandbars or barrier islands.

Complete Explanation

Kayal refers to the tranquil backwaters (shallow coastal lagoons or inlets) that are separated from the sea by sandbars or barrier islands. It is the calm stretches of water formed due to coastal processes and river deposits. These backwaters have both saltwater and freshwater. Therefore, it creates a special habitat that is rich in birds, fish, and aquatic plants. The famous backwaters, including the Ashtamudi and Vembanad lakes, showcase how Kayals are useful in irrigation, tourism, and fishing.

How are Kayals formed?

Kayals are formed when shore currents or wave action deposit sediments at the mouths of rivers. This creates low barrier islands that enclose parts of the sea or river. Later, it turns them into tranquil lagoons or backwaters.

Where can we see famous Kayals?

Now you know what is Kayal, in Geography. Let’s understand where we can see famous Kayals.

1. Kerala backwaters- Here you can see a 900 km network of lagoons, lakes, canals, and inlets running almost half the state’s length.
2. Vembanad Lake- This is India’s longest lake (about 96.5 km). It is also the largest backwater. It spans over 2,033 km².
3. Kayamkulam Kayal- This is a long brackish lagoon linked to the Arabian Sea. It is 30.4 km long and is known for its boat race.
4. Kavvayi Backwaters- This is the 3rd largest backwater in Kerala. It is popularly known for its islands, like the Valiyaparamba.
5. Ashtamudi Lake- This lake is known as the gateway to Kerala backwaters. The Ashtamudi Lake is 6.4 m deep. It is the deepest lake estuary in the state.

Also Read: Where is ‘Dudhsagar Waterfall’ situated in India

Why are Kayals important?

It is not enough to know ‘What is Kayal in Geography’. You also need to understand the significance of Kayal. Kayals are important for several reasons. These reasons are as follows-

1. Kayals are biodiversity hotspots. Here, freshwater meets seawater. Thus, it supports life of otters, mudskippers, turtles, water birds, crabs,  and unique plant life.
2. They are also popular for irrigation and fisheries.- The freshwater barrages like Thanneermukkom are also to be maintained with sweet water for farming. The backwaters can also sustain fishers.
3. It is also good for tourism and culture. For example, festivals like the Kayamkulam boat race are able to draw visitors. On the other hand, the houseboat cruises on Vembanad or Ashtamudi are also very popular.

As a class 8th student, understanding ‘What is Kayal in Geography’ improves your knowledge. It is also useful while you prepare for the exams.

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