Katchal Island

About Katchal Island

• Location & Physical Features: Katchal Island covers 174.30 sq. km and lies about 418 km from Port Blair. The island has a flat western part and hilly northern–southeastern regions, with a maximum elevation of about 227 m, influencing settlement and disaster vulnerability.
• Climate: It has a tropical climate like Great Nicobar, with year-round heat and humidity, heavy monsoon rainfall, and high cyclone risk.
• Soil & Water Resources: Soils include alluvial, sandy, valley, and hilly types, suitable for farming. Water depends on groundwater and rainwater harvesting, but high iron content and coastal salinity affect quality.
• Population & Society: Population is 2,685 (2011), mainly Nicobarese tribe. Languages include Nicobarese, Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, and Santali. Religions include Christianity, Hinduism, and Islam. Society is simple and nature-dependent.
• Traditional Knowledge: Indigenous people are skilled in navigation (stars, tides), fishing, cyclone prediction, tool-making, and use medicinal plants for common diseases.
• Coastal & Marine Features: Coastline is about 83.3 km, with nearshore depths of 16-20 m. It includes mangroves, coral reefs, and seagrass ecosystems.
• Infrastructure & Connectivity: Basic facilities (healthcare, schools, bank, police, roads, electricity) are available. Connected to Port Blair by ferry and helicopter; nearest airport is in Port Blair.
• Economic Activities: Agriculture is the main activity (paddy, coconut, areca nut, vegetables, rubber, spices). No major industries; tourism is minimal.
• Biodiversity & Ecology: Rich biodiversity with mangroves, littoral forests, and marine life. Key species include crocodiles, dugongs, dolphins, whales, and turtles. It is an ecologically sensitive area with protected habitats.
• Natural Hazards: Highly vulnerable to cyclones, earthquakes (Zone V), and tsunamis. The 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami caused major loss of life, villages, and ecosystems.
• Environmental Issues: Key issues include coastal erosion, land subsidence, and saltwater intrusion affecting land and water resources.

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