The Centre for Water Resources Development and Management (CWRDM) has established a Water Heritage Museum in 2008, dedicated to showcasing the rich and diverse legacy of water conservation and management practices that have evolved over centuries in Kerala.
It offers an insightful journey through the history of water in the region, from traditional methods rooted in indigenous knowledge systems to modern engineering marvels.
The Water Resources and Heritage Museum stands as a vibrant and influential hub, dedicated to advancing the understanding and management of water resources. It’s a dynamic platform designed to foster effective communication and promote the scientific use of water.
Visitors can explore a diverse range of models and exhibits illustrating key aspects of water resource development and management. Indeed, through historical photographs, informative panels, and detailed reconstructions, the museum vividly portrays Kerala's progress in water management.
The Museum showcases the time-tested water management techniques adopted by farmer in Kuttanad and Kol land areas and the bumper harvest they had reaped through such practices.
One of the highlights of the museum is the model of the iconic Idukki Hydroelectric Project, symbolizing the state’s remarkable achievements in harnessing water resources for power generation and sustainable development. These models not only reflect technological advancements but also serve as powerful reminders of Kerala’s continuous efforts and long journey in water resource development and management.
Through a theme-based initiative, the viewer is reminded of the traditional water sources of Kerala: wells, ponds, surangams and the like. The museum, which also houses an amphitheatre, depicts age old watershed management practices too, such as those of the Canoly canal: inland water transport, traditional water lifting devices and conveyance themes, water sports, water in religion, dams and modern trends in water, are other attractions of the museum.
The exhibition space includes several working models such as counterweight, rain shed, water wheel, bush pump, pedal pump, rainwater harvesting tank and watershed models.
The great contributions of Nila (Bharathapuzha) river valley to the heritage of Kerala are also depicted in the museum. The major contributors in the area of literature, science, performing arts and ayurveda, who lived on the banks of the Nila, find place here.
