Govt orders vigilance probe into Kochi Life-Mission flat construction defects
Follow TNM's WhatsApp channel for news updates and story links.The Kerala government has ordered a Vigilance probe into the construction defects, structural compromises, and financial irregularities surrounding the P and T Apartment complex at Mundamveli in Ernakulam. The housing complex, home to 78 families, was built under the LIFE Mission housing scheme and implemented by the Greater Cochin Development Authority (GCDA) to rehabilitate the families who lived in the waterlogging-prone P and Colony.The government order followed an inspection report submitted by the Director of the Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau (VACB). According to the order, the government has sanctioned a preliminary probe under Section 17A of the Prevention of Corruption Act.Speaking to the media, the apartment’s residents’ association president said the residents welcome the vigilance inquiry.The government order for the vigilance inquiry came days after the Chief Minister VD Satheesan declared that the housing complex would be demolished and residents rehabilitated.According to the residents, within a month of moving in, major leaks surfaced in many houses following the rain. Later, multiple issues began to appear, including cracks on walls and plaster breaking apart like powder. Many residents also complained about electric shocks, especially during the rainy season.Abhilash said neither the GCDA nor the Kochi Corporation showed any willingness to address their issues.Following repeated negligence from authorities, the residents began an indefinite strike in front of the apartment two months ago. On the 67th day of their protest, September 26, VD Satheesan made a declaration of demolition and rehabilitation. Satheesan also added that detailed decisions regarding the same will be announced later.Though the families expressed happiness in the CM’s comments, they said they will not stop the protest until a definite solution is etched out.
Follow TNM's WhatsApp channel for news updates and story links.
THE Kerala government has ordered a Vigilance probe into the construction defects, structural compromises, and financial irregularities surrounding the P and T Apartment complex at Mundamveli in Ernakulam.
The housing complex, home to 78 families, was built under the LIFE Mission housing scheme and implemented by the Greater Cochin Development Authority (GCDA) to rehabilitate the families who lived in the waterlogging-prone P and Colony.
The government order followed an inspection report submitted by the Director of the Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau (VACB). According to the order, the government has sanctioned a preliminary probe under Section 17A of the Prevention of Corruption Act.
Speaking to the media, the apartment’s residents’ association president said the residents welcome the vigilance inquiry.
The government order for the vigilance inquiry came days after the Chief Minister VD Satheesan declared that the housing complex would be demolished and residents rehabilitated.
According to the residents, within a month of moving in, major leaks surfaced in many houses following the rain. Later, multiple issues began to appear, including cracks on walls and plaster breaking apart like powder. Many residents also complained about electric shocks, especially during the rainy season.
Abhilash said neither the GCDA nor the Kochi Corporation showed any willingness to address their issues.
Following repeated negligence from authorities, the residents began an indefinite strike in front of the apartment two months ago. On the 67th day of their protest, September 26, VD Satheesan made a declaration of demolition and rehabilitation. Satheesan also added that detailed decisions regarding the same will be announced later.
Though the families expressed happiness at the CM’s comments, they said they will not stop the protest until a definite solution is etched out.
