Kerala, the first Indian state to greet the monsoon, receives over 3000 mm of rainfall annually. Yet towns like Thrithala have long struggled with water scarcity. Wells dry up by December, forcing residents to rely on water tankers—while floods wreak havoc during the rainy season. Poor water retention, degraded rivers, and unsustainable land use are at the root of the problem. Local volunteer Neeraja Ramadas explains how unchecked development has disrupted natural water cycles, leaving communities vulnerable to drought and deluge.

Grassroots action for sustainable water 

The Susthira Thrithala initiative was launched in 2022 with a bold vision to conserve water, restore rivers, and promote sustainable agriculture. Led by volunteers like Neeraja and supported by local farmers, women’s groups, schools and authorities, the project has built ponds, tanks, and rainwater harvesting systems across the region. Child care center staff have been trained to maintain rainwater systems and recycle waste. School rooftops funnel rain into percolation tanks, and small forests have been planted to slow runoff. 

Region sees groundwater levels rise  

The government is enabling workers from the MGNREGA rural employment scheme to take part in the infrastructure projects and help clean up waterways. According to restoration expert Vasudevan Pillai, clearing clogged waterways has already raised groundwater levels by 10%. Farmer VV Balachandran, once dependent on tankers, can now cultivate coconut beyond March thanks to rising groundwater.