A village in coastal south India is suffering from severe tidal flooding as lack of a sea wall is causing seawater to submerge local houses.

Azhikal village in Kerala is a fishing hamlet that is located in the foot of Arabian Sea, consisting of 612 houses. Footage from June 30 shows seawater reaching over thresholds into houses, while villagers have stacked sandbags to try and protect their homes.

Villagers claim construction of a nearby harbour has caused an increase in tidal strength leading to the rising waters. One villager commented: "If this continues then the village won't exist on the Indian Map itself."

The rough seas are reportedly most turbulent during June and July, meaning this has become a frequent weather event, and local people have unsuccessfully campaigned for their government to build a seawall to protect their homes.

Houses are sinking as seawater creeps into a fishing village in South India.


Azhikal village is a fishing hamlet that is located in the foot of Arabian Sea. 612 houses are there in this village. Sea will be rough usually on June and July months of every year. There have been affected due to the sea water creeping every year. A harbor is constructed in the nearby area and that made things worse for this village. Due to the construction of the private harbour, sea water entering the village has rose in years according to the villagers. In order to avoid sea water the villagers are placing sand bags at the entrance of their houses. They are also very scared and said " if this continues then the village won't be existing in the Indian Map itself".

They request the ruling governments to take immediate action over this issue