KOCHI: The Army Welfare Housing Federation (AWHO) has filed an affidavit in the High Court stating that the flat owners of the Army Towers in Vyttila Silver Sand Island, which is in danger due to a construction fault, will be compensated if the flats are vacated.

The compensation has to be paid to 108 fat owners in the towers of 29 storeys each, which were built six years ago. It is for the first time that the AWHO has recognised the vulnerability of the Chanderkunj Army Towers. Action will be taken against AWHO Project Director, Architect Ajith Associates and contractor Shilpa Projects and Infrastructures who are responsible for the lapses. It is also clarified that if the compensation is received, it will be distributed among the flat owners.

Six months ago, the collector had ordered the immediate evacuation of residents of the B and C towers, which are in danger. AWHO is an organisation that builds houses and flats for soldiers and ex-servicemen and is under the control of the Army.

Unclear who will demolish

There is ambiguity in the affidavit as to who will demolish the flats. Residents estimate that it will cost around Rs 40 crore to demolish the flats. The safety of the nearby A tower and the pillars of the adjacent metro rail will also have to be taken into account.

Price of flats that is going to be returned

Tower B

1st Floor: 59,64,900

Other floors: 53,40,200

Tower C

1st Floor: 68,06,300

Other floors: 60,84,300

According to AWHO

• It takes 10 years for the building to be demolished and rebuilt.

• Compensation amount: Rs 175 crore

• The amount will be transferred in three phases within three months of vacating

• The owners will get the ownership of 4.28 acres of land where the complex is located.

• The rights of those in 56 flats in Tower A will continue.

"The AWHO is trying to dive away from the scam by placing the responsibility of demolishing the buildings on the residents. The compensation is less than the amount paid for the flat.

- Retired Colonel Siby George, flat owner