Geography
Geographical and Environmental Features
Location and Climate
Nooranad is located at the southeastern extremity of Alappuzha district, positioned between the latitudes $9^\circ 14'$ N and $9^\circ 17'$ N, and longitudes $76^\circ 36'$ E and $76^\circ 39'$ E. The region generally experiences a tropical climate. The Achankovil River flows westward through the northern border of Nooranad. Additionally, the Kallada Irrigation Project (KIP) canal passes through the southern part of the panchayat, with one of its distributaries running approximately through the center of the region.
Water Resources and Environmental Challenges
The Achankovil River, a major tributary of the Pamba River, flows through the panchayat and serves as its primary water source. It plays a crucial role in determining water availability in the northern regions of the panchayat. However, excessive sand mining from the river has led to severe environmental degradation. A clear indication of this is the drastic drop in the river's water level. Consequently, the water table in nearby wells has depleted, causing acute drinking water shortages during the summer. Furthermore, riverbank erosion has become a critical consequence of this unchecked sand mining.
Wetlands and Agriculture
The Karingalichal Punja and Peruvelichal Punja are the most significant paddy fields and wetlands in Nooranad Panchayat, serving as the major agricultural lands for rice production. During the Southwest (Edavappathi) and Northeast (Thulavarsham) monsoons, flooding from the Achankovil River transforms these areas into large water bodies. Cultivation begins only after the rains recede and the excess water drains back into the river. For the subsequent six months, these submerged lands are converted into fertile fields for paddy cultivation. Other prominent double-crop paddy fields in Nooranad Panchayat include Thathammunna Vayal, Nambiarkulangara Vayal, and the fields located on the western side of Edakkunnam