Teri Kaadu: Understanding the Unique Red Sand Desert of Tamil Nadu

Teri Kaadu: An Unusual Landscape

The Teri Kaadu, located near Tirunelveli in southern Tamil Nadu, is a distinctive red sand desert, often characterized by its "chilli-powder sand." This desert presents a remarkable landscape within India, traditionally associated with the dunes of the Thar Desert.

Formation of the Desert

• Geological History: Approximately 20,000 years ago, during the last glacial maximum, sea levels were around 100 meters lower than today, revealing the sea shelf. Winds from the retreating monsoon carried sands from this shelf inland, resulting in the formation of the dunes.
• Climate Changes:
  • 15,000 years ago: The winter monsoon gained strength, and rivers began transporting silt from nearby mountains, which helped shape the Inland Teri.
  • 11,000 to 5,000 years ago: The intensity of the summer monsoon increased, and rising sea levels contributed to the development of the coastal dunes. The iron-rich minerals within the sand oxidized, imparting a reddish hue to the dunes.

Modern Challenges

• Invasive Species: The water-intensive Prosopis juliflora is encroaching on sections of Teri Kaadu, while other regions are witnessing the planting of trees such as neem and cashew.
• Environmental Impact: The evolving landscape coupled with the presence of invasive species presents new challenges to the ecosystem of Teri Kaadu.

Lessons from Teri Kaadu

The dunes of Teri Kaadu serve as a poignant reminder of the ways in which climate change can transform landscapes, shift oceans, and affect human settlements. As climate patterns continue to evolve, similar narratives emerge in diverse regions around the globe, each providing unique insights and lessons.