Maradu Complex Protest: Flat owners' eviction may get delayed

The demolition of Maradu Flat complex in Kerala that was ordered for violating the Coastal Regulation Zone rules might get delayed as the residents have claimed that the alternate places to which they were to be moved are not available. The residents had promised to move out of the complex by October 3. However, speaking to media on Monday, the residents revealed that the numbers given to them by the authorities to arrange their accommodation don't exist.

Residents allege faultily in arranging accommodation 

The residents have alleged that the numbers given to them for arranging accommodations do not exist. "We were shocked to be told when we contacted the numbers given to us, that there are no such flats to be given. Some of them even threatened us not to call again. If this is the response, then the October 3 deadline will have to be extended," the residents asserted. There are 240 families staying in 356 flats in four buildings across the complex. The apex court had ordered the demolition of the complex by September 20, for violating the Coastal Regulation Zone rules. 

READ | Evacuation of Kochi flat owners to begin soon: Kerala govt

Residents go on a Hunger Strike 

The residents of the complex went on a protest and huger strike on September 29 against the decision. They also demanded to meet with the district collector to discuss the issue. Speaking to the media, an angry resident said " We have not received any eviction notice so far. Through media, we came to know that the eviction process will be completed within four days. We want them to issue a proper eviction notice with a maximum reasonable time for eviction." The residents have also demanded the reinstatement of electricity and water connection which according to the residents was 'illegally' disconnected a few days ago. 

READ | Maradu protest: Residents agree to evacuate illegal flats in Fort Kochi

ADGP visits Madaru complex

The Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) Tomin J Thachankary also visited the Maradu complex in Kochi on Sunday. Thachankary is also in charge of the investigation team (SIT) who is probing the alleged illegal appropriation of Government land and violation of Coastal Zone regulation norms by the builder. The Supreme Court has directed an interim compensation of Rs.25 Lakhs to flat owners to be paid within four weeks.

(with inputs from ANI)

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