Weathering and Landslide Occurrences in Parts of Western Ghats, Kerala

Significant weathering processes in the Western Ghats, particularly on windward slopes, are closely linked to landslide occurrences, with rainfall emerging as the dominant factor accelerating chemical weathering. The study analyzed rock and soil samples from hornblende gneiss and granite gneiss, revealing high Chemical Index of Alteration (CIA) values in lateritic soils and forest loam, indicative of extensive weathering. Landslides are predominantly associated with highly weathered zones, especially lateritic soils and severe erodability areas. Additional factors such as deforestation, land use changes, and soil erosion further exacerbate these processes. The research highlights the critical role of weathering in landslide dynamics, providing insights into the geomorphological vulnerability of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Sajinkumar, K. S., Anbazhagan, S., Pradeepkumar, A. P., & Rani, V. R. (2011). Weathering and Landslide Occurrences in Parts of Western Ghats, Kerala. Journal of the Geological Society of India, 78(3), 249–257. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12594-011-0089-1