Kochi: The demolition of 343 flats in the Maradu municipality region began on Saturday. This is expected to be completed by Sunday using the controlled implosion process. This demolition comes after the Supreme Court in an order last September ordered the removal of these flats which were in violation of the Coastal Zone Regulation (CZR) norms.
The demolition will take place from 9 AM TO 5 PM on both these days.
These flats will be destroyed by exploding these structures. The companies charged with the demolition process have already fixed the right quantity of chemicals in these flats. The explosions will completely destroy the flats, leaving behind dust and debris which will have to be then safely disposed of. This is commonly known as the implosion method.
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Ahead of the demolition, the Ernakulam district administration has imposed Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CRPC) and prohibited the assembly of more than three people in a region. Section 144 has been imposed on land, air and water surrounding the region. The police have warned of strict actions against anyone obstructing the demolition process.
Areas around 200 metres from this spot have been evacuated and people have been asked to return once the demolition process is completed.
These flats encroached upon the tidal zone of Kochi. The apex court had permitted the Kerala government to demolish these flats within 138 days.
The flat owners who initially refused to vacate the flats have relented and shifted to a temporary accommodation.
They were paid an interim compensation of Rs 25 Lakhs. The final compensation amount shall be determined and paid within the stipulated time.