KOCHI: Locals around Maradu flats in Kochi have now come out against the decision of the City corporation to demolsh Maradu flats that were built in violation of Coastal Zone Regulation Rules. The decision is to raze the buildings using controlled explosion.

About 6000 families residing in houses that are situated around the flats have come out in protest, saying that the demolition will adversely affect their houses.

Even a small burst of crackers rattles and smashes down the window panes of these houses. “After the decision to demolish the flats was announced, we had shared out anxiety with the Coporation but we got a cold response from them. In the coming days, we shall be meeting MLAs and government representatives. We shall not allow the demolition unless we get an assurance from the government,” they said.

Meanwhile, Crime Branch today (Tuesday) arrived at the Corporation Office to examine the documents that gave sactions for the construction of the flats. Though the tenants have started vacating the flats, flat owners say that they would not vacate until they got an assurance from the government, regarding their rehabilitation.

Government counsel Harish Salve had told the Supreme Court that flats would be demolished within 90 days and all related proceudres would be completed within 138 days.