Soil tests in Kuttanad, Kerala’s famous rice bowl, show dangerously high aluminium levels in paddy fields. The Kerala Centre for Pest Management collected samples from 12 sites. Tests at Rice Research Station, Vyttila, revealed aluminium levels from 77.51 ppm to 334.10 ppm. This is 39 to 165 times higher than the safe limit of 2 ppm for rice farming. Smitha B., project director of KCPM, said, "Aluminium becomes more soluble and toxic as soil pH drops below five, with its availability increasing tenfold for every unit decline in pH." High aluminium harms plant roots and blocks essential nutrients like phosphorus and calcium. Added iron in acidic soil also damages plants. Officials stated that reducing soil acidity is crucial. "When soil acidity decreases, and the pH rises above 5.5, the solubility of aluminium and iron declines, reducing their harmful effects," said an official. Liming materials like dolomite and calcium silicate can help control aluminium levels. MP Kodikunnil Suresh called the situation a "grave environmental imbalance". He warned of a sharp drop in paddy yields, risking the livelihoods of many small farmers. He urged, "The government should intervene urgently to scientifically assess the extent of aluminium contamination, identify sources, and implement soil and water remediation measures."