Search

This paper discusses the ancient perennial water abstraction structures-Keni-developed by the tribal communities in Wayanad district, Kerala, southwest coast of India. Keni is shallow wooden abstraction structure built in the soil zone where the water table is near or above the ground level. These traditional water abstraction structures are perfect example of water harvesting and water purification. As a preliminary assessment, a detailed survey of the Keni in the district is conducted and the result of the chemical analysis of water from the Keni is presented in this paper. Water from Kenis meet the drinking water quality standards prescribed by the BIS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper presents detailed studies on the radiation levels and the seasonal variation and vertical profiles of activity of natural radio nuclei in sand samples of Chavara beach, a high background radiation area of Kerala on the south west coast of India. The elevated levels of Th and Ra activity were observed in the region with highest activity of 18,515 Bq kg for Th. The study on vertical profiles of radionuclides showed a significant variation of activity along with the depth. The higher activity of radionuclides was observed in postmonsoon season. The effective dose rate was evaluated and statistical analysis of the results was performed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]