NEDUNTHEEVU ISLAND

Neduntheevu, or Delft Island, is the largest island in the Palk Strait, located in northern Sri Lanka. Known for its unique landscape with coral formations, limestone cliffs, and wild ponies, the island also hosts historical ruins, including a Dutch fort. It is inhabited by around 4,800 Tamils.

Last Updated on 15th January, 2025
3 minutes, 14 seconds

Description

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Context:

As many as 17 Indian fishermen were arrested by the Sri Lankan Navy while fishing near the Neduntheevu island recently.

About Neduntheevu Island

Aspect

Details

Location

Neduntheevu, also known as Neduntivu, is the largest island in the Palk Strait in northern Sri Lanka.

Palk Strait is a strait between the Indian state of Tamil Nadu and Northern Province of Sri Lanka. It connects the Palk Bay in the Bay of Bengal in the north with the Gulf of Mannar in the Laccadive sea in the south. It stretches for about 137 km and is 64 to 137 km wide.

Alternative Name

Known as Delft Island, a name given by Dutch colonials.

Area and Dimensions

Covers an area of 50 square km, with a length of 8 km and a maximum width of about 6 km.

Habitability

Largest of the seven habitable islands in the region.

Unique Feature

Flat and oval-shaped island, constantly wind-blown, creating a soothing atmosphere.

Water Source

Lacks streams; fresh water is sourced from surface water collected in natural depressions and artificial ponds.

Vegetation

Features dry shrubs, semi-arid tropical plants, and tall palm trees that contribute to its beach-like environment.

Historical Structure

Hosts a Dutch fort constructed from pieces of dead coral.

Population

Inhabited by 4,800 Tamils, residing mainly in the northern half of the island.

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Source:

The Hindu

PRACTICE QUESTION

Q.Consider the following statements regarding the Delft Island (Neduntheevu):

  1. It is the largest island in the Palk Strait and is located in northern Sri Lanka.
  2. The island is known for its unique landscape, including coral formations and limestone cliffs.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

A) 1 only

B) 2 only

C) Both 1 and 2

D) Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: c

Explanation:

Statement 1 is correct: Delft Island, also known as Neduntheevu, is the largest island in the Palk Strait and is located in northern Sri Lanka.

Statement 2 is correct: The island is known for its unique landscape, including coral formations and limestone cliffs. It is correct because, as Delft Island features such distinctive geological formations.

Delft Island has a population of approximately 4,800 Tamils. The Dutch Fort on Delft Island was constructed using pieces of dead coral during the colonial era. This is true, as the Dutch Fort is a historical structure on the island.

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