During the peak of the Southwest Monsoon, certain coastal marine zones along the Kerala shelf experience a sudden and temporary calming of sea turbulence accompanied by dense shoals of sardines and prawns, a phenomenon locally called Chakara. Which combination of oceanographic and meteorological factors drives this occurrence?

💡 Solution & Explanation

Chakara or mud banks are unique calm zones along the Kerala coast formed by soft fluid mud acting as a wave absorber, while monsoon upwelling enriches surface waters with nutrients, attracting massive fish schools. Tides do not cease completely during solstices. There is no active subsurface volcanism along the passive continental margin of peninsular India. River discharge does not freeze in the tropical climate of Kerala. These mud banks shift dynamically from year to year, providing traditional fishermen with rich harvests.