Kuttampuzha
Grama Panchayat

Kuttampuzha Grama Panchayat, a mountainous region in the Ernakulam district blessed with natural beauty, has a long history of migration and survival behind its formation and development. Falling under the Kothamangalam taluk, this region was once entirely surrounded by forests and rivers. Formerly a part of the Kothamangalam panchayat, Kuttampuzha was formed as a separate Grama Panchayat on January 1, 1979, taking into account the population growth and the administrative needs of the hill country people. In terms of land area, it is one of the largest Grama Panchayats in Kerala.

Migration and Social Structure

The socio-economic structure of Kuttampuzha was shaped by the peasant migration from Central Travancore and Malabar in post-independence India, particularly during the 1950s and 60s.

• The Struggle: Farmers cleared and cultivated the land here while battling wildlife attacks and natural calamities.

• The Solution: The newly formed panchayat governing body played a major role in resolving the initial difficulties faced by the people regarding agricultural needs, transportation facilities, and the collection of forest resources.

• Tribal Welfare: From the very beginning, the welfare and rehabilitation of the indigenous tribal communities living in the forests was one of the primary responsibilities of this local self-government institution.

Achievements and Eco-Tourism

As the administrative epicenter, the achievements made by the Kuttampuzha Grama Panchayat over the past decades are substantial.

The panchayat has succeeded in uplifting the living standards of the hill country population through:

• The construction of roads connecting remote villages and tribal settlements (oorukal)

• The building of bridges

• Implementing drinking water projects

• Establishing schools and primary health centers

An Eco-Tourism Hub: Bordered by the Idamalayar Dam, the Bhoothathankettu Reservoir, and the Pooyamkutty forests, this region is today a prominent eco-tourism destination. Kuttampuzha Grama Panchayat continues its journey with activities aimed equally at environmental conservation and human development.