Addressing cross cutting issues- Field visit to Riparian Ecosystem

This field visit to the Kunthippuzha River Basin focuses on exploring the structure, function, and significance of riparian ecosystems, which serve as vital ecological corridors connecting terrestrial and aquatic habitats. Through guided observation and interactive learning, participants will examine cross-cutting environmental and socio-economic issues influencing riverine landscapes, including biodiversity loss, water resource challenges, community dependencies, invasive species threat, and climate change impacts. The visit aims to bridge classroom knowledge with real-world ecosystem understanding, encouraging informed conservation action and sustainable management of freshwater resources.

Date: 1 December 2025 Time: 9:30 AM Location: Kunthippuzha River Basin A field study programme focusing on “Addressing Cross-Cutting Issues in Riparian Ecosystems” was successfully conducted at the Kunthippuzha River Basin. The visit aimed to provide participants with practical exposure to the ecological characteristics and conservation significance of riparian zones. During the visit, participants observed how riverine vegetation is shaped by natural hydrological processes such as flooding. Floods deposit new alluvial soil or remove vegetation from older surfaces, creating open spaces suitable for seedling establishment. Floodwater can also clear organic litter, exposing mineral soil that supports the germination of pioneering species. This dynamic process allows both resilient native plants and opportunistic invaders to colonize newly available habitats. The group also noted the absence of typical riparian vegetation in areas with high human interference, which underlines the significant impact of anthropogenic disturbance on ecosystem health. Overgrazing, land-use alteration, and trampling by livestock were identified as major pressures that hinder the regeneration of native riverbank species. Such disturbances further facilitate the spread of invasive alien plants, particularly Chromolaena odorata, which aggressively colonizes open and degraded riparian areas, reducing biodiversity and altering natural ecological functions. In addition to vegetation observations, the team examined freshwater biodiversity, bank stability, and local community dependence on the river. Discussions highlighted the cross-cutting issues of pollution, habitat degradation, climate vulnerability, and the need for sustainable livelihood practices. The field programme enhanced students’ ecological observation skills, promoted collaborative learning, and strengthened awareness of riparian ecosystem conservation. Overall, the visit effectively connected theoretical learning with real-world environmental challenges and reinforced the importance of protecting freshwater habitats like the Kunthippuzha River.