THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Geophysical and hydrographic changes reported from various parts of the state in the aftermath of floods enhances the possibility of landslides and coastal floods in future, warn scientists of Kerala State Council for Science Technology and Environment (KSCSTE). They also warned of an impending drought and depletion of biodiversity and soil microorganisms. Scientific studies on the impact of floods by scientists of research institutions under KSCSTE will be collated, assessed and steps will be suggested for improvement, said Suresh Das, executive vice-president, KSCSTE and principal secretary, state science and technology department.KSCSTE chief scientist Kamalakshan Kokkal said ground water level is depleting due to impact of floods. It has also led to fertile soil erosion and soil profile changes. Rivers are getting dried up and water level in wells have fallen in many places. All of this can lead to landslide and coastal floods, he said.River ecology changes include broadening of course, reduction in flow and holding capacity. Reports that earthworms and sand boas died in large number in places like Wayanad is a clear sign of ecological damage, scientists said.Dr R Prakashkumar, director, Jawaharlal Nehru Tropical Botanic Garden and Research Institute (JNTBGRI), said the loss of biodiversity in the state due to floods will be assessed. “The process of restoration will be taken up through conventional methods and tissue culture projects. We are mapping the sites to identify the intensity of biodiversity loss,” he said. Kerala Forest Research Institute, Malabar Botanical Garden and Institute for Plant Sciences will also study issues related to biodiversity.In a Facebook post on Tuesday, chief minister said he has directed KSCSTE to conduct scientific studies on the phenomena observed after the floods in Kerala and suggest possible solutions.

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