Ernakulam
is just about the center of Kerala. It is basically a collection of
islands and narrow peninsulas. Ernakulam is the commercial centre and
forms the main land. The commercial capital and the most cosmopolitan
city of Kerala, Kochi, in Ernakulam, is known as the Queen of the
Arabian Sea. Ernakulam is located on the coast of the Arabian Sea with
Kottayam and Alappuzha districts on the south, Idukki on the east and
Thrissur on the north. The Backwaters extend east and south of the
harbour and contain tiny islands formed naturally over a long time by
alluvial deposits from the rivers that empty into them.
Flora
& FaunaThe flora of this district is tropical. The heavy
rainfall combined with moderate temperature and fertile soil support a
luxuriant vegetation. Many of the common plants are found in the coastal
area which forms the low land region. Coconut is extensively cultivated
here. The midland region is mainly occupied by coconut palms, paddy,
plantain, tapioca, sugarcane, pepper and pulses are also cultivated
here.
PopulationThe population is 3,098,378. The
decadel growth rate was 9.09 (1991-2001). The traditional feudal society
of this district has now almost disappeared. A few decades ago the Hindu
like Brahmins, the Kshathiriyas and the Nairs held a dominant position
in the society. The progress of education, the spread of liberal ideas,
the growing political consciousness among the lower classes, their
increasing participation in Government service, the introduction of
adult franchise, the growth of industrialisation and the dawn of
democratic form of Government have contributed to the new social set up.
Fairs & FestivalsAll communities celebrate
their festivals generally during the months of February and March the
duration of which ranges from one day to ten days.