Kochi Amicus Curiae Visits Maradu to Assess Construction Limits Post-Demolition
Amicus Curiae Gaurav Agarwal visited the site in Maradu on Monday to assess how much construction can be allowed on the land where four flat complexes were demolished. The Supreme Court, led by Justice B.R. Gavai, had directed Agarwal to visit Maradu and submit a detailed report on the construction limits in the aftermath of the demolition. The team, which included Sub-collector K Meera, Maradu municipality chairman Antony Ashamparambil, vice-chairperson Rashmi Sanil, and other officials, was present during the visit.
The flats in Maradu were demolished due to violations of Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) rules. The demolition has had a severe impact on the 343 families who were living in these complexes, and the situation has left many residents and investors in a state of uncertainty. As a result, there have been calls for immediate action to ensure that alternative housing is provided to the displaced families and that the site is redeveloped appropriately.
During the visit, Maradu municipality chairman Antony Ashamparambil raised concerns about the lack of new investors coming to the area following the demolition. He called on the state government to take the necessary steps to construct new flats for the affected families. He argued that the failure of both the government and the previous panchayat in addressing the issue has contributed to the ongoing challenges. According to Ashamparambil, resolving the housing issue would not only address the concerns of displaced residents but also encourage more investment in the region. Additionally, Ashamparambil criticised the government for its handling of the case, particularly regarding the lack of action against K.A. Devasia, the former panchayat president, despite testimony from eight panchayat committee members against him. He noted that the Crime Branch had approached the government multiple times for permission to question Devasia, but it had been denied. This has raised questions about accountability and transparency in the case. As the Maradu situation continues to unfold, the visit by Agarwal is seen as an essential step in providing clarity on the future of the land and the affected families. With no new investors showing interest, the need for decisive action from the government remains critical to rebuilding trust and ensuring the region’s development.
