Geo-Eye

Abstract

The coastal communities of southern Kerala, though rich in cultural and ecological heritage, face mounting socio-economic challenges due to both natural and human-induced pressures. This study offers a comprehensive assessment of the socio-economic vulnerability of 253 villages spread across the coastal plains from Ernakulam to Thiruvananthapuram. Using data from the 2011 Census and household records, the research analyzes key indicators such as population and household density, child and female population ratios, literacy rates, primary workers, and socially weaker groups to evaluate levels of vulnerability. These indicators were spatially mapped and ranked to create a composite vulnerability index, providing a clear picture of where and why vulnerability is most pronounced. Geographic Information System (GIS) tools played a central role in visualizing and interpreting these spatial patterns. To deepen the analysis, hotspot mapping was carried out using the Getis-Ord Gi* statistic in ArcGIS, identifying statistically significant clusters of high vulnerability, particularly in villages located in Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, and Alappuzha. Villages like Ochira, Arattupuzha, Attingal, and Vakkam emerged as major hotspots requiring immediate attention. The findings highlight the spatial disparities in vulnerability across districts and underscore the importance of localized, data-driven strategies for disaster risk reduction and sustainable planning. This study emphasizes the value of integrating socio-economic data with spatial analysis to better target interventions and build resilience among Kerala’s most at-risk coastal populations.

Keywords: Disaster, Vulnerability, Kerala, GIS, Coastal plains