Shaal: ഷാൽ
Shaal in Lakshadweep, is a channel created naturally or by the islanders that embodies a fluid artery in the waterscape. It is a passage carved through sediment and coral rock. for ushering boats into the confines of the billam (see Lagoon) or the expanse of ‘pottunna kadal’ (see Kadal).
The ends of the shal serve as excellent points for catching chaala (see baitfish), sought after by the pole and line fishers for catching choora (see Tuna). Throughout the archipelago, the islands have their shal, multiple at times, each strategically positioned to facilitate fishers’ access to the billam for its fish or temporary shelter during perilous sea states.