History of Block Panchayat
History of Block Panchayat
The Erattupetta Block is a region situated in the eastern part of Kottayam district, bordering Idukki district.The Erattupetta Block comprises a land area of 282.51 sq. km, sharing borders with Idukki district to the east and the Pampady, Lalam, and Kanjirappally blocks to the north and south.This block comprises areas situated at elevations ranging from approximately 800 to 3,200 feet above sea level. The landscape is characterized by a mix of hills, slopes, and valleys. Generally, the terrain features high hills and slopes, with the elevation being higher in the east and sloping down towards the west. The Western Ghats and the contiguous Peermade hill ranges define the boundaries of the block panchayat.This block comprises eight panchayats, including five that fall under the highland agro-climatic zone. According to the 2011 census, the area within the block's boundaries has 27,090 households and a population of 127,352.Geology Based on the terrain, the land can be classified into three categories: hills, valleys, and the *Idanad* (midland region) situated between them. The *Idanad* accounts for three-sevenths of the total area. Sandy soil and rocky outcrops are found here, along with occasional patches of black soil; notably, clay is virtually absent from this region. The primary soil types include laterite, alluvial soil, well-drained soil, and sandy soil.Land Use In this region—characterized by fertile soil suitable for agriculture and rainfall exceeding the state average—90 percent of the population is engaged in farming or agriculture-related occupations. Major crops include rubber, black pepper, coconut, cocoa, arecanut, tapioca, elephant foot yam, taro, greater yam, ginger, turmeric, and arrowroot. The vast majority are small-scale farmers.Environmental Features The Vadakkanar and Thekkanar are the two rivers that lend a lush green cover to the Erattupetta Block. Originating in Vagamon (Idukki district), the Vadakkanar flows through the Theekoy and Thalanad panchayats and merges with the Thekkanar at Erattupetta to form the Meenachil River.The Thekkanaru River originates at Thalana and flows through Thalappulam Panchayat before merging with the Vadakkanaru River. Attractions such as Ilaveezha Poonchira, Ayyampara, Marmala Waterfalls, Illikkakkallu, and Kurishumala draw many tourists. The area also boasts scenic landscapes featuring grasslands and rocky outcrops.